Ayurvedic treatment for schizophrenia

Ayurveda describes severe mental illness with delusions, hallucinations and disturbed behaviour under unmada, which it links with aggravated doshas, a disturbed mind (manas) and impaired memory and intellect. This is an interpretive framework. Schizophrenia is a serious medical condition, and Ayurvedic treatment has not been shown to replace antipsychotic medicine and psychiatric care. It should be used only as a supportive addition with the knowledge of the treating psychiatrist.

Traditional supports

• Regular routine, early sleep, calm surroundings and avoiding intoxicants.
• Light, freshly cooked food, ghee in small amounts and avoiding stale or heavy food.
• Gentle oil massage of the head and feet, if the person is comfortable with touch.
• Herbs often mentioned include brahmi, shankhapushpi, jatamansi, ashwagandha and vacha, and medicated ghee preparations.

What research says Studies of herbs for psychosis are few and small. Some show possible benefit for anxiety, sleep or thinking, but none is proven to treat hallucinations or delusions or to prevent relapse. Some herbs can cause drowsiness or interact with medicines.

Safety points