Ayurvedic Treatment for Insomnia

In Ayurveda, sleeplessness is called anidra or nidranasha. Sleep (nidra) is regarded as one of the three pillars of life, along with food and balanced living. Insomnia is usually linked with aggravated vata, sometimes with pitta. This is an interpretive framework and not a proven explanation.

How Ayurveda looks at it

• A regular daily routine, with fixed sleep and wake times
• Early, light dinner
• Calming practices before bed, such as a warm bath, oil massage of the feet (padabhyanga) or scalp, and quiet time
• Stress reduction and avoiding late-night stimulation

What practitioners may discuss

Herbs such as ashwagandha, brahmi, jatamansi and shankhpushpi are traditionally used for calm and sleep. Warm milk with spices is a common household practice.

What the evidence says

Some small studies suggest that ashwagandha may modestly improve sleep, but studies are limited and vary in quality. Evidence for other herbs is weak. CBT-I has stronger evidence.

Important cautions

• Ayurveda is an adjunct. See a doctor if insomnia lasts more than a few weeks or comes with low mood, sleep apnoea signs or daytime sleepiness while driving.