Symptoms And Treatments Of Bipolar Disorder According To Ayurvedic

Despite psychopharmacological advances, the management of depression and other mood disorders continues to challenge mental health providers.

Bipolar Disorder is one of the most disabling conditions which affect approximately 1% of the population. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of mania and depression in the same person at different times. Both men and women can be affected with this disorder but it is commonly seen that men tend to have more frequent ecstatic or manic episodes and women incline towards depressive states.

Ayurveda considers prassana atma (pleasant soul), indriya (senses) and mana (mind) and the equilibrium of dosha (body humors), dhatu (tissues) and mala (body wastes) as swasthaya (health).

What are the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?

A person suffering from bipolar disorder struggle with his emotions that is known to swing between two opposite poles – euphoric joy and extreme sadness. Severe depression in a bipolar person can be life threatening.

• Depression
• Feeling of hopelessness
• Extreme desire for something or mania
• Having thoughts of death or suicide
• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Sleep problems
• Fatigue

Ayurvedic reference of Bipolar Disorder:

Mental health being an important component of health has been recognized by ancient Indian physicians Master Charak and Master Sushrut, more than 5,000 years ago.

A discourse by Lord Krishna to the historical warrior, Arjuna in the battle field of Mahabharata, is an excellent treatise on psychotherapy.

In Ayurveda, mental illness is mainly characterized under the heading Unmada. The term Unmada comprises all psychiatric conditions. It is characterized by disturbance of Manas (mind), Buddhi (intellect), Sheela (personality), Smriti (memory), Cheshta (psychomotor activity), Achara (conduct) etc.

In Ayurveda, Unmada is classified into various types. These are:

1.  Vataj Unmada: In Vataj Unmada, there is inappropriate behaviour such as smiling, laughing, excessive     talking,    dancing, wandering without any reason.

2. Pittaj Unmada: In Pittaj Unmada, restlessness, anger, sleeplessness and hostility are the predominant features.

3. Kaphaj Unmada: Kaphaj Unmada is characterized by excessive sleepiness, loss of appetite, psychomotor retardation, solitude etc.

What is the Ayurvedic treatment of Bipolar Disorder?

In Ayurveda, there is a successful management of bipolar disorder. It includes samshamana (pacifying the doshas by giving internal medicines, diet and changes in lifestyle), samshodhana (elimination of vitiated doshas by panchakarma therapy).

Some herbs useful in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder are:

1. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Brahmi, an Ayurvedic herb has been used in Ayurveda to enhance cognitive ability, memory and learning skills.

• The Ayurvedic properties of Brahmi include tikta and Kashaya rasa (sharp and astringent taste), sheet virya (cold potency), Madhur vipaka (undergoes sweet taste conversion after digestion) and its karma (effect) has been described as tridoshnashaka (balances all the three doshas).
• It is quite beneficial in bipolar disorder due to its positive effect on mental function.
• The nootropic properties of Brahmi are due to the presence of its constituent saponins, bacosides A and B.
• Brahmi is a rejuvenating and nervine tonic which quiets the nerve excitement akin to its sedative property.

2. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha has multiple health benefits. People with bipolar disorder often have cognitive impairments.

• The roots of ashwagandha plant act as an adaptogen to increase the body’s ability to adapt mental stress.
• It is an excellent plant for depression, insomnia, anxiety, restlessness associated with bipolar disorder.

3. Tagar (Valeriana wallichi): The roots of Tagar plant help in reducing anxiety and improving sleep as it relaxes the central nervous system due to its sedative and anxiolytic properties.

• The Vata balancing property of tagar is quite helpful in treating bipolar disorder.
• It has sedative and tranquilizer effect which helps the patients of bipolar disorder to calm down.
• It is a wonderful natural sedative that improves quality of sleep, soothes the mind, reduces blood pressure and person becomes more relaxed and happier.

4. Shankhpushpi (Convulvulus pluricaulis): Shankhpushpi is considered as a brain tonic that actively works to improve intelligence and functioning of the brain.

• It helps in mental fatigue, restlessness, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression etc. associated with bipolar disorder.
• It pacifies all the three doshas but works more on Vata and Pitta doshas.
• The powerful antioxidants and flavonoids help in increasing calmness and alertness of the individual.
• Shankhpushpi naturally balances the brain chemicals i.e., neurotransmitters and increases the secretion of dopamine which in turn keeps the serotonin under control.

5. Vacha (Acorus calamus): Vacha is universally known for the treatment of mental problems. Besides this, it is a great detoxifying herb that removes ama dosha (toxins).

• Vacha acts as a remedy for mental stagnation as it awakens the cerebral functions which when inactive can result in bipolar disorder.
• It improves overall vitality of the body.
• Vacha is also known for improving intellect naturally.

Some Home Remedies useful in the treatment of bipolar disorder are:

1. Licorice: Take 1 teaspoon of licorice powder and mix it in about 2 cups of water. Boil this water for about 10 minutes. Strain the solution and drink this lukewarm licorice water. Consume this tea regularly.

2. Brahmi Leaves: Take some brahmi leaves and extract their juice. Take this freshly prepared juice twice a day.

Diet and Lifestyle:

• Intake of fresh fruits, juices, vegetable juices, sprouts, nuts, dry fruits, cow milk and ghee are recommended as these are the best to increase sattva and enrich the mind.
• Intake of tea/coffee, alcohol, white flour products, deep fried foods, non-vegetarian food should be avoided.
• Breathing exercises are very helpful as mind has a very close relation with breathing. A person has short and shallow breathing when he is anxious. Make a routine of doing pranayama and deep rhythmic breathing. This will help in calming down the nervous system. Pranayama such as Bhramari Pranayam, Nadi Shodhan Pranayam are highly effective.
• Some Yoga exercises such as Dhanurasana, Shavasana are quite helpful.
• Worshipping, chanting, praying also help in contributing sattvic mind.
• Meditation is the best medicine for mental health. Start doing Meditation for 15-20 minutes twice a day then gradually increase the duration.

In addition to intake of herbal medicines, diet and panchakarma procedures for bipolar disorder, Ayurvedic treatment also focuses on Satvavjaya Chikitsa (specialized counselling sessions) which compliment the natural treatment for better results.

Symptoms and Treatments of Bipolar Disorder According to Ayurveda

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood changes can affect a person’s energy levels, activity, judgment, and ability to think clearly, potentially impairing daily life and functioning.

In Ayurveda, bipolar disorder can be understood through the imbalance of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), especially the Vata dosha, which governs the nervous system and the movement of mental energies. The disturbance of Vata (air and ether) leads to erratic mental states such as mania or depression, while Pitta (fire) can intensify emotional reactivity and Kapha (earth and water) contributes to feelings of heaviness or lethargy during depressive episodes.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder (According to Ayurveda)

1. Manic Phase (Elevated Mood / Hyperactivity)

   • Mental Agitation: Overactive thinking, racing thoughts, and lack of focus.

   • Overconfidence or Grandiosity: Exaggerated sense of self-worth or capabilities.

   • Increased Energy: Restlessness, high energy, and impulsive behavior.

   • Sleep Disturbance: Little need for sleep, often for extended periods.

   • Excessive Talking: Talking rapidly and more than usual.

   • Erratic Behavior: Taking risks, making impulsive decisions, or engaging in reckless activities.

2. Depressive Phase (Low Mood / Lethargy)

   • Low Energy: Feeling fatigued, weak, and unable to perform daily activities.

   • Hopelessness: Pessimism about the future, lack of motivation.

   • Sadness and Despair: Persistent sadness, melancholy, or tearfulness.

   • Lack of Interest: Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed.

   • Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or oversleeping.

   • Poor Appetite or Overeating: Changes in eating habits, either loss of appetite or overeating.

Ayurvedic Perspective on Bipolar Disorder

• Vata Imbalance: Vata dosha is responsible for movement in the body and mind. An imbalance in Vata can lead to erratic mood swings, overactive thoughts, and nervous instability (common in the manic phase). The depressive phase can occur due to the dryness, coldness, and instability that Vata brings.

• Pitta Imbalance: Pitta dosha governs intensity and emotional reactivity. An aggravated Pitta can lead to irritability, frustration, anger, and impulsive behavior, all of which can contribute to manic episodes.

• Kapha Imbalance: Kapha dosha governs structure, stability, and heaviness. When Kapha is imbalanced, it can manifest as sluggishness, low mood, and lethargy, which may contribute to depressive states.

The goal of Ayurvedic treatment is to restore balance to the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, and enhance the overall well-being of the mind and body.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Bipolar Disorder

1. Herbal Remedies

A. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

• Benefits: Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps balance Vata and Pitta doshas. It is well-known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, support nervous system health, and help stabilize mood swings.

• How to Use: Take 1 teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder with warm water or milk before bed, or as per the prescribed dosage in capsule form.

B. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)

• Benefits: Brahmi is a well-known herb for mental clarity, calming the mind, and reducing stress and anxiety. It also has a balancing effect on the nervous system and can support mood stability.

• How to Use: Take 1 teaspoon of Brahmi powder with warm water or milk twice a day, or use Brahmi capsules as per the dosage.

C. Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)

• Benefits: Jatamansi is especially beneficial for calming the mind and stabilizing the nervous system. It helps manage mental agitation and improves emotional stability.

• How to Use: Take ½ to 1 teaspoon of Jatamansi powder with warm water or milk before sleep.

D. Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis)

• Benefits: This herb is often used to reduce mental stress and nervous tension. It calms the mind, improves memory, and helps stabilize mood swings associated with bipolar disorder.

• How to Use: Take ½ to 1 teaspoon of Shankhapushpi powder with water or milk daily, or as per the dosage of Shankhapushpi capsules.

E. Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)

• Benefits: Gotu Kola is known for its mood-stabilizing effects and its ability to improve cognitive function. It can reduce the severity of both manic and depressive episodes by promoting mental balance and clarity.

• How to Use: Drink Gotu Kola tea or take Gotu Kola capsules as per the recommended dosage.

2. Ayurvedic Oils and Aromatherapy

A. Brahmi Oil

• Benefits: Brahmi oil is excellent for promoting mental clarity, reducing stress, and calming the nervous system. Regular use of Brahmi oil can help stabilize mood and promote relaxation.

• How to Use: Massage Brahmi oil gently onto the scalp and soles of the feet before bed to calm the mind.

B. Lavender Essential Oil

• Benefits: Lavender oil has calming and relaxing properties that can help manage stress, anxiety, and emotional instability during manic episodes. It also aids in better sleep, which is essential for emotional balance.

• How to Use: Diffuse lavender essential oil in your room or apply a few drops diluted with a carrier oil on your temples for instant relief.

3. Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

A. Diet for Balancing Doshas

• Vata-balancing foods (warm, moist, grounding) are important to reduce the dryness and instability associated with bipolar disorder. Include cooked grains (rice, oats), soups, and vegetable stews in the diet.

• For Pitta-balancing, consume foods that are cooling, such as cucumber, coconut, and mint. Avoid hot, spicy foods, which can aggravate Pitta.

• Kapha-balancing foods (light, stimulating, and dry) can help during depressive phases. Foods such as beans, leafy vegetables, and light fruits like apples and pears are beneficial.

B. Meditation and Yoga

• Meditation: Regular meditation can help stabilize mood swings by calming the mind, reducing anxiety, and promoting mental clarity. Mindfulness meditation can be particularly useful in identifying mood shifts early and managing them effectively.

• Yoga: Specific yoga postures like Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend), Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog), and Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose) can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and help balance Vata and Pitta doshas.

  • Incorporate Pranayama (breathing exercises) like Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) to balance the mind and reduce mental agitation.

C. Sleep Hygiene

• Adequate sleep (7-8 hours) is essential in managing bipolar disorder. Vata and Pitta imbalances often cause disturbances in sleep. Ensure a relaxing bedtime routine, avoid screen time before bed, and sleep in a calm and dark environment.

D. Stress Management

• Practicing deep breathing exercises and engaging in relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation can help manage stress, a key trigger for both manic and depressive episodes.

4. Panchakarma (Detoxification)

• Panchakarma, a traditional Ayurvedic detoxification therapy, can help cleanse the body of toxins (ama) that may contribute to mental instability. Specific treatments like Abhyanga (oil massage), Shirodhara (oil pouring on the forehead), and Basti (enema therapy) may help calm the nervous system and detoxify the body, improving mental health.

Conclusion

In Ayurveda, bipolar disorder is seen as a result of Vata and Pitta imbalances affecting the mind and emotions. The goal of Ayurvedic treatment is to restore balance to the doshas, improve mental stability, and support the nervous system. Herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Jatamansi, and Shankhapushpi are excellent for stabilizing mood, reducing stress, and improving