Abstract

CHATURBHADRA KALPA BASTI AS A CATALYST FOR ENHANCING SOCIAL RECIPROCITY IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM: AN AYURVEDIC CASE SERIES

Dr. Suryana Gupta*, Dr. Divyasri R. A. and Dr. Sudheer B. R.

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Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction, often accompanied by restricted and repetitive behaviours. From an Ayurvedic perspective, these features correlate with Manasika Vikaras such as Unmada.[1] arising due to a Tridoshic imbalance—primarily involving Vata Dosha and disruption of the Manovaha Srotas. This case series presents five pediatric patients clinically diagnosed with ASD who were treated with Chaturbhadra Kalpa Basti, a unique therapeutic protocol described in Kashyapa Samhita and referred to as Niratyaya (unsurpassed).[2] While extensive research has been conducted on Yoga Basti, Kala Basti and Karma Basti patterns, Chaturbhadra Kalpa Basti remains underexplored in both clinical and academic settings. The regimen involved a structured sequence of 4 Anuvasana Basti s, 4 Niruha Basti s, followed by 4 Anuvasana Basti s, utilizing Brahmi Ghrta and Mustadi Yapana Basti. Clinical evaluation was done using the Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA)[3] before and after the administration of Chaturbhadra Kalpa Basti. All five children exhibited notable improvements in social reciprocity—including enhanced eye contact, responsive communication, social imitation, and participation in interactions—which are considered core deficits in ASD. These changes reflect a significant shift in relational and adaptive behaviour, indicating that the therapy positively impacted the neurobehavioral mechanisms governing social engagement. The observed therapeutic benefits are attributed to the synergistic pharmacological actions of the formulations used (Brahmi Ghrita and Mustadi Yapana Basti), the sequential structure of the Chaturbhadra Kalpa Basti protocol and its systemic influence on the gut-brain axis—a critical pathway in regulating mood, cognition, and behaviour. This case series therefore underscores the potential of Ayurvedic Panchakarma—particularly Chaturbhadra Kalpa Basti—as a promising integrative approach for enhancing social functioning in children with autism.

Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Chaturbhadra Kalpa Basti, Brahmi Ghrita, Mustadi Yapana Basti, ISAA Scale, Social Reciprocity.