Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder. The word Schizophrenia means split mind. This disease is marked by the considerable disturbances in thoughts which affects perceptual, emotional and social processes. The patient is detached from the real world and lives in his own imaginary world. It mostly arises in the first half of life and the progression of the disease may be sudden or gradual.
Patients may develop symptoms either acutely or insidiously. The progressive decline in performance is associated with overt behaviour that disturbs the thoughts and perception. These patients are socially less sensitive and social cognition deficit negatively influences the functioning.
Some of the symptoms of Schizophrenia are:
- Strange suspiciousness
- Forgetfulness
- Depression
- Unnecessary hostility
- Excessive sleep or insomnia
The ancient Indian system of medicine Ayurveda is a compendium of various health related practices and explained the abnormal state of mind, i.e., psychopathology in various contexts.
Ayurveda is not merely herbal tradition but it is a science with a comprehensive approach to lifelong fundamental principles of diagnosis and treatment.
Concept of Mind (Manas) in Ayurveda:
According to Master Charak, manas (mind) is the entity responsible for thinking and observation. The mind is achetan (inactive) by itself but gets activated by the atman or atma (soul). Although beyond sensory perception, it is dravya (matter), since it has guna (quality) and karm (action).
Schizophrenia according to Ayurveda:
According to Sushrut Samhita, sadhak pitta (one of the 5 types of Pitta dosha) is responsible for the higher faculties and emotional states. Sadhak Pitta is located in Hridya and is responsible for the feelings such as shourya (valor), bhaya (fear), medha (intelligence), harsha (happiness), swabhimaan (self – esteem), krodha (anger) etc.
Sadhak Pitta performs its functions by dispelling the Kapha which is responsible for dullness and tamas (ignorance) of the heart and thus enables the mind to perceive things clearly.
What is the treatment of Schizophrenia according to Ayurveda?
Our ancient Indian medical system of medicine emphasized on the unity of both body and mind and explained how to deal with mental health problems by psychosomatic approach.
Ayurvedic treatment of Schizophrenia by Yamuna Pharmacy:
- Sery Capsule
- Sery Oil
- Brahmi Capsule
- Ashwagandha Capsule
- Sery Capsule: Sery Capsule manufactured by Yamuna Pharmacy is a proprietary Ayurvedic medicine that contains the goodness of herbs useful that are extremely beneficial for schizophrenia.
- It is a polyherbal formulation that helps in stabilizing the mind, improving concentration and alertness, promoting good sleep by calming the brain and nerves.
- Sery capsule contains powders and extracts of Brahmi, Tagar, Jatamansi and Ashwagandha.
- These capsules are also free from artificial colours, flavours, starch, yeast and chemicals.
Dosage: Take 1-2 capsules twice a day or as directed by the physician.
- Sery Oil: Sery Oil by Yamuna Pharmacy is an Ayurvedic formulation which is extremely beneficial for brain and nervous system as it contains herbs that work in a synergistic manner to calm the brain and improve brain functioning and relieve stress, anxiety, insomnia associated with schizophrenia.
Composition of Sery Oil:
Each 10 ml contains:
| Sr. No. | Herb | Botanical Name | Quantity |
| 1. | Brahmi | Bacopa monnieri | 1250 mg |
| 2. | Jatamansi | Nardostachys jatamansi | 625 mg |
| 3. | Tagar | Valeriana wallichli | 625 mg |
| 4. | Ashwagandha | Withania somnifera | 625 mg |
| 5. | Til tel | Sesamum indicum | 5 ml |
| 6. | Ksheerbala Tel | Classical Ayur. Med. | 5 ml |
Mode of Use: For external application only.
Apply 2-5 ml on the forehead and scalp and massage till absorption.
- Brahmi Capsule: Brahmi Capsule by Yamuna Pharmacy is prepared from Bacopa monnieri
- Brahmi is a nervine and rejuvenating herb that quiets the nervous excitement.
- It has been described as tridoshanashaka (suppressing excess of all the three doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha), especially Vata and Pitta abating attributes.
- Brahmi Capsule by Yamuna Pharmacy is useful in managing symptoms such as agitation, anxiety and depression associated with schizophrenia.
Dose: Take 1-2 capsules twice a day or as directed by the physician.
- Capsule Ashwagandha: Capsule Ashwagandha by Yamuna Pharmacy contains the standardized extract of the herb Withania somnifera.
- Ashwagandha is one of the Rasayana herbs mentioned in Ayurveda.
- It enhances the function of brain and nervous system and improves memory as well.
- Being a powerful adaptogen, it enhances the body’s resilience to stress and normalizes the physiological functions of the endocrine system.
Dosage: Take 1-2 capsules twice a day or as directed by the physician.
Diet and Lifestyle:
- Take vegetarian and freshly prepared food.
- Take proper rest and avoid keeping awake at night.
- Do physical exercises such as yoga, pranayama or walking on regular basis.
- Avoid eating non-vegetarian food and consumption of tea and coffee.
- Whole body massage is recommended.
Schizophrenia: Symptoms & Treatments According to Ayurveda
Contents
Schizophrenia is a serious mental health disorder that affects a person’s thinking, emotions, and behavior. It is characterized by symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired social and occupational functioning. While schizophrenia is typically managed with modern medicine, Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine from India, offers a holistic approach to managing mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, by focusing on balancing the mind, body, and spirit.
Ayurvedic Understanding of Schizophrenia
In Ayurveda, mental health disorders like schizophrenia are often linked to imbalances in the Sattva (mind), Rajas (emotions), and Tamas (behavior) qualities of the mind. Mental disorders, including schizophrenia, are believed to arise when the Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas are disturbed, particularly Vata and Pitta, which are associated with the nervous system and mental functions.
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Vata Dosha: It governs movement, and when imbalanced, it can lead to mental instability, anxiety, and restlessness, contributing to conditions like paranoia and hallucinations, which are common in schizophrenia.
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Pitta Dosha: It controls transformation, metabolism, and mental sharpness. When aggravated, Pitta can lead to irritability, anger, and aggressive behavior, which may manifest in the delusional aspects of schizophrenia.
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Kapha Dosha: It governs structure and stability. If Kapha is imbalanced, it may cause emotional numbness, lack of motivation, and depression, which can lead to social withdrawal, a common symptom in schizophrenia.
Symptoms of Schizophrenia According to Ayurveda
Schizophrenia’s symptoms in Ayurvedic terms are typically understood through the lens of imbalanced doshas and disturbed mental states. These symptoms may include:
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Hallucinations (Auditory/Visual): The experience of hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t present is often related to aggravated Vata and Pitta doshas. Vata imbalance causes excessive mental activity, while Pitta imbalance results in distorted perceptions and sensory overload.
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Delusions: False beliefs that are not grounded in reality, such as persecution delusions or delusions of grandeur, can be linked to Pitta imbalance, which can lead to an overactive or distorted perception of reality.
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Disorganized Thinking: Mental confusion and the inability to think logically or coherently are often a result of Vata imbalance. Vata governs the nervous system and when disturbed, it can cause fragmented thought processes.
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Social Withdrawal and Lack of Motivation: Kapha dosha may contribute to these symptoms, as it is associated with lethargy, apathy, and depression.
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Mood Swings: Intense emotional fluctuations, often shifting between irritability, anger, and sadness, can be associated with Pitta imbalances.
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Paranoia and Anxiety: Vata is closely linked to the nervous system, and when out of balance, it can lead to heightened fear, anxiety, and paranoia.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Schizophrenia
Ayurveda treats schizophrenia through a combination of herbal remedies, dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and mental health practices that work together to restore balance to the mind and body.
1. Herbal Remedies for Schizophrenia
Herbs play a crucial role in Ayurvedic treatment for mental disorders by calming the mind, balancing doshas, and promoting mental clarity. Below are some key herbs used in Ayurveda to treat schizophrenia:
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Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Brahmi is one of the most effective herbs for mental health. It calms the nervous system, improves concentration, and helps clear mental fog. It is beneficial in cases of anxiety, paranoia, and memory loss.
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How to Use: Take Brahmi powder (1/2 tsp) mixed with honey or warm milk daily, or use Brahmi capsules as prescribed.
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Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Known for its adaptogenic properties, Ashwagandha helps the body cope with stress and enhances mental clarity. It helps restore emotional balance and calmness, which is vital in schizophrenia treatment.
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How to Use: Take Ashwagandha powder (1/2 tsp) mixed with warm water or milk twice a day, or use Ashwagandha capsules as recommended.
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Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi): Jatamansi is known for its calming and anti-anxiety effects. It helps treat agitation, fear, and restlessness associated with schizophrenia.
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How to Use: Jatamansi can be consumed as a powder (1/4 tsp) with honey or warm water.
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Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi helps in balancing the mind and stabilizing emotions. It is also useful for calming anxiety and improving mental clarity.
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How to Use: Boil Tulsi leaves in water and consume the tea daily, or take Tulsi capsules as per the dosage instructions.
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Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis): Shankhpushpi is an excellent herb for improving cognitive function and mental clarity. It calms the nervous system, alleviates stress, and enhances brain function.
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How to Use: You can take Shankhpushpi powder or syrup, or as per the Ayurvedic practitioner’s recommendation.
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Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica): Gotu Kola is known for its ability to enhance memory, cognition, and mental clarity. It is also known to improve circulation to the brain and reduce anxiety.
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How to Use: Gotu Kola can be taken as a capsule, tablet, or powder.
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2. Panchakarma (Detoxification)
Ayurvedic detoxification therapies like Panchakarma help eliminate Ama (toxins) from the body, restore dosha balance, and rejuvenate the nervous system. The following Panchakarma therapies may be beneficial for schizophrenia:
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Shirodhara: A treatment where warm herbal oil is poured onto the forehead in a steady stream. It calms the mind, reduces mental tension, and promotes deep relaxation, which can be helpful in managing anxiety and emotional instability associated with schizophrenia.
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Nasya: This involves the administration of medicated oils through the nostrils to clear blockages in the head region. It helps treat mental fog, clear the mind, and relieve stress.
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Abhyanga: A full-body oil massage that balances Vata and Pitta, calms the nervous system, and relaxes the body.
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Basti: Medicated enema therapy that is especially effective in balancing Vata dosha and addressing conditions like anxiety, restlessness, and other nervous disorders.
3. Dietary Recommendations for Schizophrenia
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Warm, Nourishing Foods: Ayurvedic diets for schizophrenia emphasize warm, nourishing, and easy-to-digest foods. Avoid cold, raw, and heavy foods, which may exacerbate Vata and Kapha imbalances.
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Spices: Use digestive spices like turmeric, cumin, ginger, fennel, and black pepper to enhance digestion and balance the doshas.
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Light, Easily Digestible Foods: Focus on foods that are light and nourishing, such as soups, stews, and porridge. Foods like kitchari (a traditional Ayurvedic dish made with rice and lentils) are great for promoting mental and digestive health.
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Reduce Toxins (Ama): Avoid processed and junk foods, which can increase the formation of Ama, or toxins, that burden the mind and body.
4. Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes
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Regular Meditation and Pranayama: Meditation, especially mindfulness and guided meditations, helps calm the mind and stabilize emotions. Techniques like Pranayama (breathing exercises) are excellent for reducing anxiety, promoting mental clarity, and balancing the doshas.
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Yoga: Yoga helps in restoring mental peace and physical stability. Regular practice can reduce symptoms of schizophrenia such as stress, anxiety, and agitation. Focus on grounding poses and slow, meditative movements.
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Adequate Rest: Ensuring adequate rest and sleep is vital in managing schizophrenia. Ayurvedic treatments often focus on improving sleep quality, as mental health is deeply tied to restful sleep.
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Counseling: In Ayurveda, mental health is not just treated with herbs and therapies but also through emotional and spiritual healing. Speaking with a therapist or an Ayurvedic counselor can provide deeper emotional support.
5. Monitoring and Support
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Monitor Progress: It is important to monitor the symptoms regularly and consult an Ayurvedic practitioner who can adjust treatment plans based on progress.
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Integrate with Modern Medicine: While Ayurveda offers a holistic approach, schizophrenia is a complex condition that often requires a combination of Ayurvedic and conventional medical treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatments.