Abstract

A CLINICAL STUDY ON ANIDRA AND ITS MANAGEMENT WITH SHIRODHARA AND MAMSYADI KWATHA

Dr. Babendra Singh*, Dr. Krishan Kumar

Abstract

Background: Anidra, commonly correlated with insomnia, is characterized by difficulty initiating sleep, maintaining sleep, or obtaining restorative sleep. Ayurveda considers Nidra an essential determinant of health and well-being. Shirodhara and Mamsyadi Kwatha have been investigated as therapeutic approaches for sleep disturbances. Aim: To review the Ayurvedic rationale and available clinical evidence concerning the management of Anidra with Shirodhara and Mamsyadi Kwatha. Materials and Methods: A narrative review was prepared using classical Ayurvedic concepts and published clinical studies on Shirodhara, Mamsyadi Kwatha, and insomnia. The review considered clinical study design, treatment duration, outcome measures, reported findings, and methodological limitations. Results: A clinical study published in 2009 evaluated 60 patients divided into four groups receiving zolpidem, Mamsyadi Kwatha, Shirodhara, or their combined Ayurvedic intervention. The investigators reported improvements in several sleep-related and associated symptoms. A randomized controlled trial published in 2023 evaluated Mamsyadi Kwatha in 50 patients with primary insomnia and found improvements in standardized sleep and psychological assessment measures. However, the evidence remains limited by study-specific methodological considerations and the need for independent replication. Conclusion: Shirodhara and Mamsyadi Kwatha represent promising areas of Ayurvedic research in Anidra. Their therapeutic potential should be evaluated through adequately powered clinical trials using standardized diagnostic criteria, validated sleep assessment tools, and systematic safety monitoring.

Keywords: Anidra, Nidranasha, Insomnia, Shirodhara, Mamsyadi Kwatha, Nidra.