SCHIZOPHRENIA

Schizophrenia literally meaning “split mind” is a psychiatric disorder which hampers a person’s ability to think, feel and behave clearly. Patient is almost detached from real world and lives in his/her own imaginary world and fails to distinguish between real and virtual

Causes

Usually compared with “Attatwabhinivesh” in classical ayurveda texts, schizophrenia has no specific cause but has a strong genetic prevalence.(Roughly it is found in 10 percent of people who have a first degree relative with schizophrenia).Psychological and environmental factors can make such person more likely to develop the condition as some people are prone to schizophrenia and a stressful or emotional life event might trigger it. Lack of mental discipline, negative emotions like anger, jealousy are known to cause imbalance in psychic energies further leading to schizophrenia

Symptoms

Being depressed ,unnecessary hostility or violence, irrational statements, strange suspicions ,forgetfulness, change in sleep patterns are some of its symptoms. As there is no specific lab test to confirm schizophrenia, still presence of some of these symptoms for more than six months indicates towards schizophrenia like hallucinations (person starts seeing things, hearing voices and perceiving smells which others can’t), delusions (false beliefs that don’t change even when presented with new ideas or facts), Negative symptoms (which make the person emotionally flat, diminishing his/her abilities and Cognitive issues etc. Ayurveda views schizophrenia as the imbalance of psychic energies (sattva, rajas, tamas)on an inner level supported by imbalance of tridoshas(vata,pitta,kapha).

Treatment

Sadly there is no cure for schizophrenia rather treatment can manage the disease symptoms and enhance life quality of the patient. Treatment is usually lifelong and often involves

• combination of anti psychotic medicines,
• psychotherapy (such as CBT)and
• co-ordinated speciality care services(patient education about disease, lifestyle management etc).

As per Ayurveda, to combat this mental illness, specific herbal formulations are mentioned which destroy and clear any blockages present in subtle channels of brain as well as to strengthen and rejuvenate mental faculties.

SERY Capsule of YAMUNA PHARMACY is an excellent combination of Medhya (mind strengthening) herbs like brahmi, tagar, jatamansi and ashwagandha which calms down the nervous system and enhances mental performance by its naturally rejuvenating properties which support good brain health and helps to provide relief in symptoms like depression, lack of sleep, anxiety associated with schizophrenia. These capsules can be taken 1 to 2 twice a day with water, milk or with VIGOPROT a special formulation of YAMUNA PHARMACY which acts as a brain nourishing and revitalising combination because of its ingredients like shatavari,shankhpushpi,amlaki and most essentially calcium carbonate in natural form of khatika

ASHWORANGE SYRUP is yet another miraculous preparation by YAMUNA PHARMACY having herbs such as guduchi, draksha, ashwagandha which wards off stress, tension and have positive effects on nervous system.

Apart from medications, following dincharya (ayurvedic daily regimen like getting up early in the morning preferably in brahama muhurta,not to awake till late in night, eating fresh foods and seasonal fruits and vegetables),refraining from hot discussions and negative emotions of anger, lust, jealousy, anxiety etc. and doing regular yoga, pranayama can cause wonders in treatment efficacy.

Recent studies have shown that aerobic exercises like treadmills, exercise bicycle can significantly help in improving cognitive functions in schizophrenic patients.

SHITALI PRANAYAM and TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION (form of silent mantra meditation) at dawn times have surprisingly good results in patients with schizophrenia

Schizophrenia: Understanding, Causes, and Ayurvedic Management

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and abnormal behaviors. People with schizophrenia may seem out of touch with reality, which can cause significant distress and difficulty in daily functioning.

Causes of Schizophrenia According to Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, mental illnesses such as schizophrenia are typically linked to imbalances in the three doshas — Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These imbalances, particularly in the Vata dosha, are believed to cause disruptions in the mind (Manas), emotions, and intellect. Here’s a breakdown of possible causes:

1. Vata Dosha Imbalance:

   • The Vata dosha governs movement, thought, and communication. An imbalance in Vata, often aggravated by excessive stress, fear, or trauma, can lead to erratic thinking and disorganized behavior, which are common in schizophrenia.

   • Vata imbalance can result in mental restlessness, overactive mind, and lack of mental clarity, all of which contribute to schizophrenic symptoms.

2. Toxin Build-Up (Ama):

   • Ama, or accumulated toxins from undigested food, emotional stress, or environmental factors, can build up in the body and disturb the mind-body connection.

   • When Ama affects the Sattva (mental clarity), it can cause disturbances in perception, cognition, and mental health.

3. Pitta Dosha Imbalance:

   • Pitta governs intellect, focus, and perception. An excess of Pitta can lead to agitation, irritability, and intense emotions such as anger, frustration, or jealousy, which may trigger or worsen schizophrenic episodes.

4. Imbalance in the Three Gunas:

   • The three Gunas — Sattva (mental clarity), Rajas (activity), and Tamas (inertia) — play a significant role in mental health. A predominance of Rajas (overactive mind) and Tamas (mental dullness) can lead to disturbed thinking patterns and behavior associated with schizophrenia.

   • The influence of Tamas may lead to depression, delusions, or a sense of detachment from reality, which is commonly seen in schizophrenia.

5. Genetics and Trauma:

   • While Ayurveda primarily focuses on dosha imbalances, modern research recognizes the genetic and traumatic origins of schizophrenia. Ayurveda acknowledges that mental health conditions may arise from deep-seated emotional traumas or inherited genetic predispositions, especially when the body is under constant stress.

Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Symptoms of schizophrenia can be broadly classified into positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms:

• Positive Symptoms (additional behaviors or thoughts):

  • Hallucinations (usually auditory, like hearing voices)

  • Delusions (false beliefs, such as feeling persecuted or believing one has special powers)

  • Disorganized thinking (incoherent speech or difficulty organizing thoughts)

  • Disorganized or abnormal motor behavior (e.g., unpredictable movements or inappropriate responses)

• Negative Symptoms (reduction or loss of abilities):

  • Reduced ability to function in daily life (work, social relationships)

  • Flat affect (lack of emotional expression)

  • Decreased motivation or interest in activities

  • Social withdrawal

• Cognitive Symptoms:

  • Impaired memory and attention

  • Difficulty in decision-making and processing information

Ayurvedic Management of Schizophrenia

Ayurvedic treatment for schizophrenia focuses on restoring balance to the mind-body connection, improving mental clarity, and reducing symptoms of the disorder. The key is to address the root causes such as dosha imbalances, toxin accumulation (Ama), and mental stress. The treatment plan includes herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, detoxification therapies (Panchakarma), and lifestyle practices.

1. Herbal Remedies for Schizophrenia

Several herbs are used in Ayurveda to balance the Vata and Pitta doshas, reduce mental agitation, and enhance mental clarity:

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

   • Benefits: Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps reduce stress, calm the mind, and promote mental stability. It can reduce the anxiety and restlessness seen in schizophrenia.

   • How to Use: Take Ashwagandha powder (1 teaspoon) with warm milk or water.

2. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):

   • Benefits: Brahmi is a well-known herb for improving mental clarity, memory, and reducing mental confusion. It has a calming effect on the nervous system and is commonly used in treating anxiety and cognitive issues.

   • How to Use: Take Brahmi powder (1 teaspoon) with ghee or milk.

3. Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi):

   • Benefits: Jatamansi is used to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and address nervous system imbalances. It helps promote emotional stability and is particularly useful in reducing mental stress and agitation.

   • How to Use: Take Jatamansi powder (1 teaspoon) with water or ghee.

4. Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica):

   • Benefits: Gotu Kola is used to enhance mental function, promote focus, and improve memory. It also helps reduce anxiety and mental fatigue.

   • How to Use: Drink Gotu Kola tea or take Gotu Kola capsules.

5. Tulsi (Holy Basil):

   • Benefits: Tulsi is a powerful adaptogen that helps reduce mental stress and anxiety. It promotes emotional balance and helps detoxify the body.

   • How to Use: Drink Tulsi tea or chew fresh Tulsi leaves.

6. Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis):

   • Benefits: Shankhpushpi is an herb known to improve mental clarity, promote intellect, and calm the nervous system. It is often used in Ayurveda to treat anxiety and memory-related issues.

   • How to Use: Take Shankhpushpi powder with milk or water.

7. Guggulu (Commiphora wightii):

   • Benefits: Guggulu is an anti-inflammatory and detoxifying herb that helps reduce the toxins (Ama) in the body. It can support overall mental health and is useful in improving clarity of thought.

   • How to Use: Guggulu is available in tablet or powder form.

2. Ayurvedic Dietary Recommendations

A balanced diet plays an essential role in managing schizophrenia by balancing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas and supporting mental health.

• Avoid spicy, sour, and pungent foods that aggravate Pitta and lead to mental agitation.

• Consume cooling, calming foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, milk, coconut, and ghee to reduce excess Pitta and Vata.

• Include foods that support mental clarity, such as whole grains, nuts, seeds, and dark leafy greens.

• Avoid processed and junk foods, as they can increase Ama (toxins) and disturb digestion.

• Drink herbal teas like chamomile, ashwagandha tea, and brahmi tea to calm the mind.

3. Ayurvedic Lifestyle Practices

• Meditation and Mindfulness: Incorporating meditation and pranayama (breathing exercises) into the daily routine helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity. Practices like Yoga Nidra (deep relaxation) can also help reduce anxiety.

• Routine and Rest: A consistent daily routine, proper sleep hygiene, and adequate rest are essential for mental well-being. Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns can exacerbate symptoms.

• Detoxification (Panchakarma): Ayurvedic detox therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Basti (medicated enema) help eliminate Ama (toxins) from the body and balance the doshas, promoting overall mental clarity and emotional stability.

4. Supportive Therapies

• Abhyanga (oil massage) with medicated oils like Brahmi oil or Ashwagandha oil can help soothe the nervous system, reduce stress, and support overall health.

• Shirodhara (pouring warm oil on the forehead) is another therapy that helps calm the