Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ANIDRA (INSOMNIA) WITH NIDRAKAR CHURNA AND KSHEERBALA TAILA SHIROPICHU: A CASE REPORT

Dr. Kanika*, Dr. Avinash Kumar Srivastava, Dr. Pranika Singh, Dr. Monika

Abstract

Background: Insomnia is a common neuropsychological disorder affecting emotional stability, cognitive performance, and autonomic balance. Contemporary pharmacological therapies often provide temporary relief but may be associated with tolerance, residual sedation, cognitive impairment, and dependence. Ayurveda describes Anidra as a disorder characterized by predominant Vata-Pitta vitiation, Rajo Guna predominance, and Manovaha Srotodushti, which requires a holistic therapeutic approach that addresses both psychological and somatic aspects. Aim: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of idrakar Churna and Shiropichu with Ksheerbala Taila in the management of Anidra (Insomnia). Materials and Methods: A 45-year-old male presented with difficulty initiating sleep, frequent nocturnal awakenings, non-refreshing sleep, irritability, and reduced daytime efficiency for the past 8 months. Symptoms were aggravated by an irregular sleep schedule and prolonged exposure to late-night screens. The patient was treated with Nidrakar Churna ~ 4 Ratti twice daily after meals for 60 days, along with Shiropichu using Ksheerbala Taila for 7 consecutive days. Assessment was carried out using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), sleep parameters, and Ayurvedic classical features. Results: Significant improvement was observed in sleep latency, nocturnal awakenings, sleep quality, daytime functioning, and associated symptoms. The ISI score decreased from 20 (moderate insomnia) to 10 (subthreshold insomnia), without any adverse effect. Conclusion: Nidrakar Churna, combined with Ksheerbala Taila Shiropichu, demonstrated substantial improvement in Anidra by addressing both neuropsychological and Doshic components of the disorder. This approach served as a safe and effective management strategy without any dependency-related adverse effect.

Keywords: Anidra, Insomnia, Ayurveda, Nidrakar Churna, Ksheerbala Taila.