Behavioral Disorders in Children – An Integrative Review of Ayurvedic and Modern Perspectives
Keywords:
Behavioral Disorders, Medhya Drugs, Panchakarma, Sattvavajaya Chikitsa, UnmadAbstract
Background: Behavioral problems refer to improper expressions of conduct, code, or etiquette. Behavioral problems are generally multi-factorial in origin and arise as a result to diagnose and treat timely as if left untreated, increase the risk of developing psychiatric illnesses. Conventional pharmacological management of behavioral disorders primarily involves drugs such as atypical antipsychotics, tricyclic antidepressants, and sleep-enhancement drugs, which possess a wide range of side effects. Counseling with the family and adopting Ayurveda principles can help manage and prevent the further progression of behavioral problems in children. In Ayurveda, disorders related to psychiatric and behavioral disturbances are discussed under the chapter of Unmada.
Aim: This study aims to review existing evidence on Ayurveda-based and modern interventions for behavioral disorders in children.
Materials and Methods: Journal articles, clinical experiences, and traditional Ayurvedic textbooks were regarded as the information sources.
Results and Discussion: Multimodal management approach of Ayurveda, including Medhya drugs, Panchakarma procedure -Shirodhara (pouring liquids over the forehead), Nasya, Siropichu (placing herbs mixed with oils or decoctions placed on the vertex of the head), Matra Basti with medicated oil, along with Sattvavajaya Chikitsa (Occupational therapy) can help in preventing and resolving the condition.
Conclusion: Modern medicine offers diagnostic precision and symptomatic relief through pharmacotherapy and behavioral therapies. Knowledge education and proper expressions of code, conduct, and etiquette, along with Ayurveda interventions such as the use of Medhya drugs (nervine tonic/nootropic) and Panchkarma pre-procedures, can be significant therapeutic methods to combat behavioral disorders.
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