About Anxiety & Insomnia
Chittodvega · Anidra
Mental health in classical Ayurveda
Charaka described Chittodvega — restless mind — as a Vata vitiation of Manas (mind). The treatment uses Medhya Rasayanas, a class of herbs that specifically nourish cognition and emotional regulation. Modern pharmacology has validated this category: Brahmi (Bacopa) is a GABA-A modulator; Ashwagandha (Withania) lowers cortisol; Jatamansi (Nardostachys) has serotonin-affinity studies.
Shirodhara — Kerala's signature anti-anxiety therapy
A continuous stream of warm medicated oil dripped onto the forehead for 30-45 minutes. Multiple Indian and international studies have shown reduction in serum cortisol and improvement in Hamilton Anxiety Scale scores after a 7-14 day course. It is the single most evidence-grounded mental-health intervention in classical Ayurveda.