Balashwagandhadi Taila Nasya in the Management of Chittodvega (Generalised Anxiety Disorder): A Single Case Study

Background: Chittodvega is a psychosomatic condition described in Ayurvedic classics, arising from aggravation of Prana Vayu and Rajas within the Manovaha Srotasa. Its hallmarks — pervasive worry, autonomic hyperarousal, insomnia, and cognitive disturbances — align with the DSM-5 criteria for Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Balashwagandhadi Taila Nasya, a classical intranasal Panchakarma procedure, is traditionally indicated for Vata-predominant neuropsychiatric disorders. Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and tolerability of Balashwagandhadi Taila Nasya in the symptomatic relief of Chittodvega. Case Presentation: A 39-year-old married female with Vata-Kapha Prakriti and Avara Satva presented with insomnia and anxiety for four years. She received Balashwagandhadi Taila Nasya (8 drops/nostril, once daily) for seven consecutive days under inpatient supervision. Outcome was measured using validated Ayurvedic symptom scales and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A). Results: The total HAM-A score declined from 25 (moderate-to-severe) to 13 (mild), representing a 48% reduction in seven days. Composite Ayurvedic symptom score decreased from 23 to 9 (-61%). Signs of Samyakyoga Lakshana were documented from Day 5. No adverse events were recorded. Conclusion: Balashwagandhadi Taila Nasya demonstrated clinically meaningful anxiolytic and hypnotic effects within a short treatment course. Controlled trials are needed to validate these preliminary findings.