E-ISSN:2456-3110

Review Article

Neurological Disorders

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 1 JANAUARY
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

Holistic approaches to Neurological Disorders

Sharma S1, Shukla RK2*
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.1.18

1 Shraddha Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Kayachikitsa, Pt. Khushilal Sharma Govt. Auto. Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

2* Ratnesh Kumar Shukla, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Kayachikitsa, Pt Khushilal Sharma Govt Auto Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

The nervous system, as the primary controlling, regulatory, and communication network of the body, orchestrates critical functions, including thought, learning, memory, and movement. In Ayurveda, the nervous system's activities are governed by Vata Dosha, which is responsible for all bodily movements and central nervous system functions. Disorders arising from the vitiation of Vata are termed Vatavyadhi and encompass over 80 specific conditions (Nanatmaj Vyadhi). While Vata in its balanced state supports health, its deranged state can lead to debilitating conditions. Charaka classifies the etiology of Vatavyadhi into two primary categories: Dhatukshayajanya (degenerative conditions) treated with Brihana (nourishing therapies) and Margavarodhjanya (obstructive conditions) treated with Vata-Anulomak Chikitsa (therapies that restore the natural flow of Vata). Disorders involving sphincter disturbances and neurotransmitter dysfunction are also managed using Ayurvedic approaches, including Rasayana drugs for neural rejuvenation. Neurological disorders like epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, stroke, migraine, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and head trauma can result from various factors, including malnutrition and injuries. Ayurveda’s Panchakarma therapy offers a transformative approach to managing neurological disorders by detoxifying the body and eliminating vitiated doshas. Therapies such as Vaman (therapeutic emesis), Virechana (purgation), Basti (medicated enemas), Nasya (nasal administration), and Raktamokshan (bloodletting) are particularly effective in addressing vitiated Vata disorders. Additionally, Snehan (oleation therapy) and Swedan (fomentation therapy) provide significant relief in Vataj disorders by restoring balance and promoting overall neural health. This integrative approach combining modern diagnostics and traditional Ayurvedic interventions underscores the potential for holistic and personalized management of neurological disorders.

Keywords: Vatavyadhi, Neurological Disorders, Margavarodhjanya, Vaman, Virechana, Basti, Nasya.

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Ratnesh Kumar Shukla, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Kayachikitsa, Pt Khushilal Sharma Govt Auto Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Email: 		Sharma S, Shukla RK, Holistic approaches to Neurological Disorders. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(1):139-144.
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https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4181

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2024-12-12 2024-12-23 2025-01-04 2025-01-15 2025-01-27
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None Nil Not Required 12.89

© 2025by Sharma S, Shukla RKand Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

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Shraddha S et al. Holistic approaches to Neurological Disorders

Introduction

Neurological disorders, which affect the nervous system, can be debilitating and challenging to treat. In the realm of traditional medicine, especially in Ayurveda, the management of these disorders is approached from a holistic perspective, considering the intricate balance of mind, body, and spirit. One significant concept in Ayurvedic medicine is Vata Vyadhi, a condition caused by the imbalance of Vata Dosha, which governs essential bodily functions, particularly movement, sensory perception, and mental activities. Vata is closely associated with the nervous system, making it central to the treatment of neurological conditions.

In Ayurveda, disorders arising from a disturbed Vata Dosha are classified as Vata Vyadhi, encompassing over 80 distinct ailments. The treatment of these disorders not only involves restoring balance to the Vata but also emphasizes the importance of therapeutic practices such as oleation (Snehana), sudation (Swedana), massage, dietary adjustments, and Panchakarma therapies. These approaches aim to rejuvenate the nervous system and alleviate the symptoms associated with neurological diseases.

This holistic treatment model integrates physical, mental, and environmental factors, aiming for the overall well-being of the individual. By exploring both the root causes and symptomatic manifestations, Ayurvedic therapies offer a comprehensive method for managing neurological disorders, addressing not only the physiological symptoms but also the underlying imbalances within the body’s systems. This approach offers a broader perspective on neurological health, encouraging a natural and balanced state of being.[1,2] Neurological disorders encompass a broad spectrum of conditions, including degenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders, and acute injuries to the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

Among the most common are degenerative neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease, which involve the progressive breakdown of nerve cells, leading to symptoms like memory loss, movement difficulties, and cognitive impairments. Ayurveda views these diseases as a manifestation of Vata Dosha imbalance, which governs nervous system function, movement, and communication within the body. A disturbance in Vata leads to degeneration and dysfunction in tissues like the Asthi Dhatu (bones) and Majja Dhatu (bone marrow, including the nervous system). In Ayurvedic terms, this degeneration occurs due to improper nourishment and imbalance in these tissues, particularly when the digestive fire (Agni) is weak, leading to toxins (ama) that accumulate and disrupt the natural processes of the body.[3,4]

In addition to degenerative diseases, autoimmune neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis also fall under the category of disorders that impact the nervous system. In autoimmune conditions, body's immune system erroneously attacks its own cells, leading to inflammation and damage to nerve fibers. Ayurveda explains this imbalance as a dysfunction in Ojas (vital energy) and improper functioning of the digestive fire, which disturbs the natural rhythm of the body's immunity. This imbalance, particularly in Vata, can be exacerbated by environmental factors such as stress and poor lifestyle choices. Ayurvedic treatments focus on balancing Vata through therapies like Snehana (oleation) and Swedana (sudation), which help to detoxify and rejuvenate nervous system by restoring harmony to body's tissues. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Shankhapushpi are traditionally used to support cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and nourish nervous system. By addressing root cause of these imbalances, Ayurveda aims to slow disease progression, promote healing, and restore overall well-being.

Discussion

Neurological Degenerative Disorders

1. Alzheimer’s Disease
Panchakarma Therapy: Detoxification through therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Nasya (nasal administration of Ekala Aushadha).
Ekala Aushadhi: Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Shankhpushpi for memory enhancement and calming the mind.
2. Parkinson’s Disease
Abhyanga (Oil Massage) with Use of medicated oils like Mahanarayan Taila to reduce tremors and rigidity and Niruha Basti therapy to balance Vata.
Ekala Aushadha: Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens) for improving dopamine levels, Ashwagandha, and Bala for nerve strength.

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Shraddha S et al. Holistic approaches to Neurological Disorders
1. Alzheimer’s Disease
3. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Panchakarma: Shirodhara (pouring medicated oil on the forehead) for calming the nervous system.
Ekala Aushadha: Ashwagandha and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) to strengthen muscles and nerves.
4. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Therapies: Snehana (oleation) and Swedana (sudation) to alleviate muscle stiffness and fatigue. Basti Therapy: Vata-specific medicated enemas to improve neurological functions.
Ekala Aushadha: Guduchi, Brahmi, and Guggulu for enhancing immunity and reducing inflammation.
5. Huntington’s Disease
Medicated Oils: Regular application of oils like Bala Ashwagandha Taila for controlling involuntary movements.
Ekala Aushadhi: Ashwagandha, Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), and Brahmi to promote nerve health.
6. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
Abhyanga and Swedana and Shashti Shali Pinda Swedan: To improve muscle tone and reduce stiffness.
Ekala Aushadha: Bala, Ashwagandha, and Shatavari to enhance muscle strength and function.

Ayurveda offers holistic approaches for managing neurological degenerative disorders by focusing on balancing the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), detoxifying the body, and rejuvenating the nervous system. Below are the Ayurvedic principles and therapies for managing these disorders:[5-9]

Autoimmune Neurological Disorders

1. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Panchakarma Therapy: Basti (Medicated Enema): Vata-pacifying enemas using herbal decoctions and oils like Dashmooladi Taila. Abhyanga (Oil Massage) and Swedana (Sudation): To reduce muscle stiffness and fatigue.
Ekala Aushadha: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) to improve nerve function.
2. Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
Panchakarma Therapy: Virechana (Purgation): To eliminate Pitta-related toxins. Abhyanga with Mahanarayan Taila to strengthen muscles and nerves.
Ekala Aushadha: Rasayana Ekala Aushadha like Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) and Bala (Sida cordifolia) for nerve repair.
3. Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO)
Panchakarma Therapy: Nasya (Nasal Administration) with Anu Taila to improve optic nerve function.
Shirodhara (Oil Dripping on Forehead) to calm the nervous system.
Ekala Aushadha: Triphala, Yashtimadhu (Licorice), and Ashwagandha to reduce inflammation and rejuvenate nerves.
4. Myasthenia Gravis (MG)
Panchakarma Therapy: Basti to balance Vata and strengthen muscles. Abhyanga with medicated oils to alleviate fatigue and weakness.
Ekala Aushadha: Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens), Bala, and Ashwagandha for neuromuscular support.
5. Autoimmune Encephalitis
Panchakarma Therapy: Virechana to detoxify and balance Pitta. Shirodhara with Brahmi oil for calming the brain.
Ekala Aushadha: Brahmi, Guduchi, and Shankhpushpi for cognitive support.
6. Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)
Panchakarma Therapy: Basti for nerve nourishment and Vata balance. Abhyanga to improve peripheral nerve health.
Ekala Aushadha: Ashwagandha, Guduchi, and Guggulu for reducing inflammation and rejuvenating nerves.
7. Hashimoto’s Encephalopathy
Panchakarma Therapy: Nasya to support cognitive function. Virechana to detoxify and reduce Pitta imbalances.
Ekala Aushadha: Brahmi, Jyotishmati (Celastrus paniculatus), and Shankhpushpi for brain function.
8. Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS)
Panchakarma Therapy: Basti to strengthen the neuromuscular system. Abhyanga for muscle weakness and fatigue.
Ekala Aushadha: Bala, Ashwagandha, and Rasayana formulations for muscle rejuvenation.
9. Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS)
Panchakarma Therapy: Snehana (Oleation) and Swedana to relax stiff muscles. Shirodhara for calming the nervous system.
Ekala Aushadha: Ashwagandha, Guggulu, and Dashmoola for relieving stiffness and inflammation.
10. SLE-Related Neurological Disorders
Panchakarma Therapy: Virechana to reduce immune hyperactivity. Abhyanga with cooling oils like Chandanadi Taila to calm Pitta.
Ekala Aushadha: Guduchi, Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry), and Neem for immune modulation.

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Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to managing autoimmune neurological disorders by focusing on detoxification, immune modulation, and nervous system rejuvenation. Panchakarma therapy plays a key role, complemented by herbal treatments and lifestyle modifications. Below is the Ayurvedic management of these conditions:[10-15]

Other Neurological Disorders

1. Epilepsy (Apasmara)
Panchakarma: Virechana (Purgation) to eliminate toxins and balance Pitta and Kapha doshas. Nasya (Nasal administration) with medicated oils like Brahmi Taila. Shirodhara to calm the nervous system and reduce seizures.
Ekala Aushadha: Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi, and Vacha (Acorus calamus) to improve brain function.
2. Migraine (Ardhavabhedaka)
Panchakarma: Virechana to remove Pitta-related toxins. Nasya with medicated oils like Anu Taila to clear sinuses and reduce headaches. Shirodhara with cooling oils like Brahmi Taila to calm the mind.
Ekala Aushadha: Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Yashtimadhu (Licorice) for calming and rejuvenating the nervous system.
3. Stroke (Pakshaghata)
Panchakarma: Basti (Medicated enema) to balance Vata and promote nerve regeneration. Abhyanga (Oil massage) with Mahanarayan Taila to restore muscle function. Shirodhara to reduce mental stress and support brain recovery.
Ekala Aushadha: Ashwagandha, Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata), and Guggulu to enhance mobility and reduce inflammation.
4. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Panchakarma: Nasya to clear nasal passages and improve brain function. Shirodhara to reduce stress and promote healing.
Ekala Aushadha: Brahmi, Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica), and Ashwagandha for nerve regeneration.
5. Cerebral Palsy
Panchakarma: Abhyanga with medicated oils to improve muscle tone and reduce stiffness. Basti for balancing Vata dosha and improving motor functions.
Ekala Aushadha: Bala (Sida cordifolia), Ashwagandha, and Shatavari to strengthen the nervous system.
6. Peripheral Neuropathy
Panchakarma: Basti with medicated oils like Dashmoola Taila to strengthen nerves. Abhyanga to reduce numbness and tingling.
Ekala Aushadha: Guduchi, Rasna, and Nirgundi for reducing inflammation and repairing nerves.
7. Bell’s Palsy
Panchakarma: Nasya with medicated oils to support facial nerve recovery. Abhyanga on the face and head with Bala Taila.
Ekala Aushadha: Ashwagandha, Bala, and Kapikacchu for nerve repair.
8. Meningitis
Panchakarma: Virechana to reduce Pitta-related inflammation. Shirodhara to soothe the brain and alleviate symptoms.
Ekala Aushadha: Yashtimadhu, Guduchi, and Brahmi for anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory effects.
9. Encephalitis
Panchakarma: Virechana to remove toxins causing inflammation. Shirodhara for calming brain inflammation.
Ekala Aushadha: Guduchi, Brahmi, and Amalaki for immune modulation and neuroprotection.
10. Hydrocephalus
Panchakarma: Nasya to enhance brain function. Shirodhara to calm Vata and reduce brain pressure.
Ekala Aushadha: Brahmi, Mandukaparni, and Shankhpushpi to support the nervous system.
11. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Panchakarma: Basti for calming Vata dosha. Abhyanga with medicated oils to reduce muscle discomfort.
Ekala Aushadha: Ashwagandha, Bala, and Tagara (Valeriana wallichii) for relaxation and nerve support.
12. Dystonia
Panchakarma: Abhyanga with relaxing oils to improve muscle coordination. Shirodhara for calming the mind and controlling involuntary movements.
Ekala Aushadha: Kapikacchu, Ashwagandha, and Jyotishmati for neuromuscular balance.
13. Ataxia
Panchakarma: Basti to balance Vata and enhance motor functions. Abhyanga to improve muscle coordination.
Ekala Aushadha: Bala, Ashwagandha, and Rasna for strengthening the nervous system.
14. Spinal Cord Injuries
Panchakarma: Basti to nourish the spine and reduce Vata imbalances. Abhyanga with Dashmoola Taila to restore nerve function.
Ekala Aushadha: Ashwagandha, Guggulu, and Guduchi for reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

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Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to managing various neurological disorders by addressing imbalances in Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, detoxifying the body, and rejuvenating the nervous system. Panchakarma therapies, herbal medicines, diet, and lifestyle modifications form the cornerstone of treatment. Below is the Ayurvedic management of the listed disorders, with an emphasis on Panchakarma therapies:[16-21]

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to the management of various neurological disorders. By focusing on restoring the balance of the body's doshas, especially Vata, and using therapies such as Panchakarma, Nasya, and Shirodhara, Ayurveda aims to address not only physical symptoms but also root causes of these conditions. Conditions like epilepsy, migraine, stroke, and multiple sclerosis, among others, are managed through targeted therapies that detoxify, rejuvenate, and balance nervous system, enhancing overall neurological function. Additionally, use of potent Ayurvedic herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, and Guduchi provides therapeutic benefits by supporting brain health, improving cognitive function, reducing inflammation, and promoting nerve regeneration. Through personalized treatments, Ayurvedic medicine offers a natural, non-invasive path to healing, aiming for long-term wellness by aligning mind, body, and spirit. The integration of these traditional healing practices into modern healthcare can provide individuals with a holistic alternative for managing and alleviating challenges posed by neurological diseases.

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