Abstract

AYURVEDA APPROACH TO THE MANAGEMENT OF OBSESSIVE - COMPULSIVE DISORDER (SHEELA VIBHRAMA): A CASE REPORT

Dhaneshwari H. A. and Soumya R. Korawar*

Abstract

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), referred to as Sheela Vibhrama in Ayurveda, is a common psychiatric condition characterized by persistent intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours that cause significant distress and functional impairment. It is estimated that approximately 1-2% of the global population is affected by OCD, with a higher prevalence in individuals during early adulthood. This case report presents an Ayurveda approach to managing OCD, emphasizing the role of Mano dosha (Psychological imbalances) in its pathogenesis. A 30-year-old male with a two-year history of obsessional thoughts related to harming others, these symptoms severely impacted his daily life and social interactions was treated using Shodhana Chikitsa, focusing on Virechana as the primary therapeutic modality. The outcome demonstrated significant improvement in the patient’s symptoms, highlighting the potential of Ayurveda in addressing the underlying causes of psychiatric disorders.

Keywords: Sheela Vibhrama, Obsessive compulsive disorder, Virechana.