Abstract

HEALING THE MIND THROUGH AYURVEDA: CASE STUDY ON SCHIZOPHRENIA (UNMADA)

Dr. Minakshee Chouhan*, Dr. Preeti Chaturvedi, Dr. Shivani Paliwal, Dr. Manisha Pandey

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Abstract

Psychotic disorders are serious mental health conditions defined by distorted thinking and perception, with schizophrenia being a prominent example. The symptoms of schizophrenia closely resemble those described under Unmada in classical Ayurvedic texts. Although advancements have been made, the pharmacological management of schizophrenia often yields limited results. Ayurveda, the traditional medical system of India, highlights balancing lifestyle and biological rhythms through herbal remedies and detoxification methods. It holds significant promise in addressing various physical and mental health issues. This case study discusses the Ayurvedic approach to treating a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia, whose symptoms corresponded with Kaphaja Unmada. A 30-year-old female patient was brought to the outpatient department by her grandparents, presenting with complaints such as refusal to eat independently, social withdrawal, tying her mouth with cloth, and neglecting personal hygiene. Treatment was designed according to her clinical presentation and included Rasayana Aushadha, Nasya, and Shiropichu administered over a six-month period (April 2024 to September 2024). Her progress was evaluated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and posttreatment results showed significant improvement in her symptoms.

Keywords: Unmada, Manasa Roga, Schizophrenia, Psychotic disorder, Ayurveda.