Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication along with the presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. The World Health Organization estimates that ASD affects approximately 1 in 100 children. In Ayurveda, ASD shares clinical similarities with Unmada (~insanity) as described in the classical texts. A two-year-old male child presented at the Kaumarabhritya Out-patient department with symptoms including poor eye contact, sleep disturbances, hyperactivity, self-harm tendencies, repetitive movements (rocking and stimming), poor speech, and language development since one year of age. The Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA) was used to confirm the diagnosis. The Ayurveda therapy approach comprised Medhya rasayana (~intellect enhancer) herbs, including Brahmi ( Bacopa monnieri L. Drake), Jatamansi ( Nardostachys jatamansi D. Don DC), Tagara ( Valeriana wallichii DC.), Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera L. Dunal), Bhringraja ( Eclipta prostrata L. Hassk), Vacha ( Acorus calamus Linn.), and Yashtimadhu ( Glycyrrhiza glabra L . ) which were administered in the form of capsules and syrup. Along with these, Mahapaishachika ghrita and Triphala were suggested to improve digestion, systemic balance, and cognition. Furthermore, localized treatments such as Jihwa nirlekhana (~tongue scraping) with Vacha, Nasya (~medication through the nasal route) with Brahmi taila, and Shirolepa (~anointment over scalp) with Brahmi and Jatamansi were also employed to optimize neurological and behavioural outcomes. Posttreatment, the ISAA scores significantly reduced from 169 to 63, indicating improvement in social, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms. In addition, the child’s sleep pattern improved, hyperactivity was reduced, and parental stress levels decreased. No adverse effects were observed during the treatment and follow-up period. This case highlights the potential of Ayurveda interventions in managing ASD symptoms effectively.
Malik et al. (Thu,) studied this question.