Sodhananga snehapaana with Sahacaraadi sevya against Kalyaanaka ghrita in Moderate-to-Severe Depressive Disorder: A Comparative Clinical Trial

Depressive disorders are highly prevalent mental disorders producing disturbances in major domains of well-being. About 300 million people suffer from depression at a global level. The currently available antidepressants fail to bring a significant reduction in symptoms and are associated with increased remission rates and greater side effects. In Ayurveda, symptoms of depression often go on a par with features of Kaphaja Unmaada with Vata Anubandha . Vamana is the ideal Sodhana Cikitsa for Kaphaja Unmaada, and conventionally, Ghrita is used for Sodhanaanga Snehapaana . Taila is the best Sneha which has Kapha Vata hara nature, and Sahacaraadi taila is indicated in Unmaada . The scope of Tailapaana in alleviating symptoms of depression is a novel concept which needs validation. Participants with moderate-to-severe depressive disorder satisfying the inclusion criteria were admitted to the IPD of VPSV Ayurveda College and Government Ayurveda Research Institute for Mental Health and Hygiene, Kottakkal. The study design was a comparative clinical trial and the study group was administered Sodhanaanga Snehapaana with Sahacaraadi Sevya, and in the control group, it was done with Kalyaanaka Ghrita . Both the groups were administered Vamana with Dhaamargava yoga after Snehapaana . The efficacy of both the groups was compared using the Beck’s Depression Inventory and Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire – Short Form. From analysis, it was concluded that both the groups were effective in reducing symptoms of depression. The domains of past failure, self-dislike, and suicidal thought were proved to be statistically significant in the trial group, whereas the domains of sadness, hopelessness, and insomnia were significant in the control group.