Introduction
Depression is a very common but severe psychological disorder affecting a significant number of people worldwide. In a few countries, people remain undiagnosed to a large extent due to a lack of awareness of psychological diseases. It is one of the most common mental disorders these days. It has many causes, like genetic, biological, environmental, psychological, and a combination of two or more reasons.
In Ayurveda, depression is called vishada, and it is believed that depression results from vitiated doshas in the brain. Ayurvedic treatments often involve herbal remedies, lifestyle adjustments, and mindfulness practices to restore balance and promote mental wellness.
What Causes Emotional Imbalance?
Ayurveda views emotional imbalance as a result of disruptions in the doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These doshas are fundamental energies governing physiological and psychological functions. When these doshas are in harmony, a person experiences mental equilibrium. However, various factors can disturb this balance, leading to emotional disturbances like depression.
Vata Imbalance - When Vata, the energy of movement, is aggravated, it can manifest as anxiety, restlessness, and fear. These are closely linked to depressive symptoms. Factors such as excessive stress, irregular routines, poor dietary habits, and lack of self-care can exacerbate Vata imbalance.
Pitta Imbalance - Pitta represents the energy of transformation and metabolism. When Pitta becomes imbalanced, individuals may experience irritability, anger, and perfectionism, which can contribute to depressive states. Intense work pressure, criticism, and excessive competition are common triggers for this imbalance.
Kapha Imbalance - Kapha governs stability and structure in the body and mind. An excess of Kapha can lead to feelings of heaviness, lethargy, and apathy, contributing to depressive tendencies. Factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, overeating, and emotional attachment can aggravate this imbalance.
What Is Depression?
Depression, in Ayurvedic terms, is often understood as a manifestation of an imbalance in the mind-body complex. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in daily activities. Ayurveda recognizes depression as a multifaceted condition influenced by various physical, mental, and spiritual factors. These may include:
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Agni (Digestive Fire) Imbalance - Weak digestion can lead to the accumulation of toxins (ama) in the body, affecting mental clarity and mood. Poor dietary choices, irregular eating habits, and weak digestive fire can contribute to the development of depressive symptoms.
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Prana Vayu (Life Force) Disturbance - Prana Vayu governs the body's energy and vitality flow. Any disruption in the movement of Prana Vayu can lead to feelings of fatigue, lethargy, and emotional stagnation, contributing to depression.
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Mental Stress and Trauma - Ayurveda acknowledges the impact of psychological stressors and traumatic experiences on mental health. Chronic stress, unresolved emotional conflicts, and traumatic events can disturb the doshic balance, exacerbating depressive tendencies.
What Are the Ayurvedic Treatments for Depression?
Ayurveda believes in the principle of 'removing or staying away from the cause is half the treatment'. It is mentioned as nidana parivarjanam. So, first of all, rule out the primary cause of depression. Once the cause comes into the knowledge, try to change the thought process related to it. It will help the patient to a great extent.
Other treatments include panchakarma therapies, other external treatments, the usage of various internal medications, diet changes, and lifestyle changes.
1) Panchakarma:
Panchakarma procedures help purify the channels of the body. In panchakarma, there are therapies such as Vamana (emesis therapy), Virechana (purgation), Basti (enema or colonic irrigation), Nasya (nose cleaning), and Raktamokshana (cleaning the blood). Any of them is prescribed to the patient according to the type of depression and other associated conditions.
2) External Therapies:
Other external therapies include Shirodhara, Shirobasti, Abhyanga, etc. All these therapies use medicated herbal oils. There are a variety of medicated herbal oils in Ayurveda. These external therapies are very effective in curing depression.
3) Internal Medications:
Regarding internal medicines, many herbs in various ayurvedic combinations are used. The Ayurveda books have written all the properties of these drugs as to how they help in curing depression. Nowadays, various research studies have also been done on the efficacy of these drugs, and some drugs have proved extremely useful in treating the disease.
Single herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), etc., are described in the context of depression and used extensively. Besides these single herbs, there are many other medicines like Saraswatarishta, Vachadi churnam, Panchagavya ghrita, etc.
4) Lifestyle Changes
The medicine of choice can be according to the patient’s condition. Besides the treatment, other activities like yoga, exercise, pranayama, meditation, counseling, yoga nidra, and deep relaxation techniques are also advised to overcome depression. Dietary changes like adding some foods and neglecting some foods are also recommended. Lifestyle changes are also suggested for a person's overall well-being.
Are There Any Side Effects of Ayurvedic Treatments for Depression?
Ayurvedic treatments for depression are generally safe and well-tolerated when administered under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Individual responses to Ayurvedic remedies may vary, and some people may experience mild side effects such as:
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Certain herbal formulations or dietary modifications may cause temporary digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals. This can include symptoms such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea. Adjusting the dosage or formulation of herbs can help alleviate these side effects.
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Although rare, some individuals may be allergic to specific herbs or ingredients used in Ayurvedic preparations.
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Individuals taking medications for depression or other medical conditions should exercise caution when using Ayurvedic remedies concurrently. Certain herbs may interact with prescription drugs, potentially altering their efficacy or causing adverse reactions.
Conclusion:
Ayurvedic principles help people find balance and energy in their lives by understanding how the mind, body, and spirit are all connected. Ayurveda helps people improve their health and emotions by changing their diet, taking herbal medicine, changing lifestyle habits, and using therapy. It helps individuals take control of their healing journey. Medicines and other modifications help to cure the depression problem. Along with that, the support of family and friends and the willpower of a patient also play a role in how determined they are to fight against depression.
