Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF INSOMNIA- A CASE REPORT

Dr. Ambily K. Ashok, Dr. Nidhish Nair*, Dr. Suneeshmon M. S. and Dr. Asha Karunakaran K.

Abstract

Sleep is an active regulated and distinct metabolic state, that controls fundamental biological functions of the body resulting in maintenance and repair of body. Chronic sleep restriction is multifactorial and can be attributed to underlying organic illness, sleep disorders, work demands, social and domestic responsibilities, adversely affecting neurobehavioral functions, impaired daytime functioning, personal conflicts, psychoactive substance abuse disorders. Insomnia is a disorder characterized by difficulty in initiating and maintaining sleep or both and can include frequent awakening during night, early morning awakening or inadequate quality of sleep. According to Ayurveda Nidra is one among the Tripod sustaining life, affecting various functions of physiology which includes psychological wellbeing, status of nourishment, physical strength, endurance, neurocognitive functions, and reproductive health. Nidranasha or Alpanidra is caused due to increase in Vata & Pitta dosha and reduced Kapha dosha. A 38 year old female approached our OPD her primary concerns being difficulty in getting off to sleep and maintaining since last 6 months, she was diagnosed as a case of Nidranasha based on standard diagnostic protocol and she was put on an Ayurvedic treatment Protocol with Trina Panchamoola Ksheera Sirodhara for 7 days along with Internal administration of Cap. Shwethasankhapushpi 500mg in dose of 2 TID after food for a period of 14 days with add on Sleep Hygiene practices, the protocol was effective in reducing Insomnia.

Keywords: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Nidranasha, Primary Insomnia.