Ayurvedic and hypnotherapy for Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurvedic Management along with Hypnotherapy in Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (Conversion Disorder)
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Anjumol M
PG Scholar, Manovigyana Evam Manasaroga, Department of Kayachikitsa, VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala, India.
Jithesh M
Professor and HOD, Department of Kayachikitsa, VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala, India.
Vinod R
Associate Professor, Department of Kayachikitsa, VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic Management along with Hypnotherapy in Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (Conversion Disorder)
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10i5.1400
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND), also known as conversion disorder, is characterized by neurological symptoms that cannot be explained by a neurological diagnosis. The symptoms can manifest as voluntary motor or sensory function deficits following psychological stress or conflict. In Ayurvedic terminology, this condition is referred to as Yoshapasmara, where deficits in motor or sensory functions arise without underlying neurological causes. A case is presented of a 29-year-old female who exhibited weakness and numbness in her left lower limb after experiencing severe family stress, leading to a diagnosis of FND. The treatment approach combined Ayurvedic management and hypnotherapy to address both physical symptoms and psychological stressors.
The Role of Hypnotherapy in Treatment
Evidence indicates that individuals with conversion disorder are often more susceptible to hypnosis than the general population, suggesting hypnotherapy may serve as an effective therapeutic intervention. Hypnosis can help uncover unresolved psychological conflicts that contribute to somatic symptoms, allowing patients to consciously confront and process these issues. In this particular case, hypnotherapy was administered alongside Ayurvedic treatments, with sessions designed to facilitate relaxation and alter consciousness, thus enabling the patient to better manage her emotional state related to her symptoms.
Ayurvedic Management Strategies
The Ayurvedic approach to managing FND involved a combination of internal medications and external therapies, particularly focused on balancing the body's doshas. The patient underwent various treatments including Udwartana (powder massage), Abyanga (oil massage), and Vyathyasa chikitsa (a combination of dry and unctuous therapies). Internal medications such as Drakshadi Kashaya and herbal powders were prescribed to address both physical symptoms and the underlying psychological stress. The understanding of Avarana chikitsa (treatment for obstructions) was utilized, aiming to treat the stability and movement issues related to the patient’s condition, bridging the gap between Ayurvedic principles and modern psychological understanding.
Conclusion
FND represents a complex interplay between psychological and physical health, where unresolved unconscious thoughts manifest as neurological symptoms. The integration of Ayurveda and hypnotherapy in treating this disorder highlights the potential for holistic approaches in healthcare. By addressing both the bodily symptoms and the psychological stressors, patients may achieve significant improvements. The case emphasizes the importance of exploring traditional medicine, like Ayurveda, in treating functional disorders, offering a foundation for further research and clinical application in addressing conditions such as Yoshapasmara and their psychological underpinnings.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND)?
Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND) is characterized by neurological symptoms without an identifiable neurological diagnosis. These symptoms may arise from psychological conflicts or stressors, leading to issues such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty in movement.
How was the patient with FND treated in this study?
The patient was treated with a combination of Ayurvedic therapies, including Udwartana and Abyanga, alongside hypnotherapy. This comprehensive approach aimed to address both the physical symptoms and underlying psychological stressors, ultimately resulting in improved muscle strength and reduced perceived stress.
What role does hypnotherapy play in treating conversion disorder?
Hypnotherapy can help address unresolved conflicts and emotions associated with conversion disorder. By altering the patient's unconscious thought patterns through suggestion, it aims to reduce symptoms and improve overall functioning, particularly in cases like Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic and hypnotherapy for Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Family:
In this context, 'Family' plays a critical role in the patient's stress levels and overall condition. The conflicts within her husband's family contributed significantly to her psychological distress and subsequent symptoms of functional neurological symptom disorder (FND). Family dynamics, including conflicts and lack of support, exacerbated her condition.
2) Unconscious:
The concept of 'Unconscious' is pivotal in understanding Conversion Disorder or Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder. The disorder manifests as a conversion of unresolved unconscious thoughts or conflicts into physical symptoms. Both Ayurveda and hypnotherapy in the case study aim to address these unconscious elements to bring about healing.
3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is the primary treatment approach used in managing the patient's condition in the case study. Various Ayurvedic therapies, including internal medications and external treatments like Udwartana and Abyanga, were employed. Ayurveda integrates herbal medicines, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle changes to treat physical and psychological disorders.
4) Avarana:
'Avarana' refers to the concept of obstruction in Ayurveda, particularly the obstruction of normal physiological pathways by doshas or other elements. The patient's treatment included 'Avarana chikitsa,' which aims to remove obstructions that are leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness and sensory loss in the legs.
5) Kashaya (Kasaya):
'Kashaya' is a type of Ayurvedic herbal decoction used for its therapeutic properties. In the case study, 'Drakshadi Kashaya' was one of the internal medications given to the patient. Kashayas are commonly employed in Ayurveda to balance doshas and treat a range of ailments, including stress-related disorders.
6) Medicine:
'Medicine' in this context refers to both the modern and Ayurvedic treatments administered to the patient. Ayurvedic medicines like 'Drakshadi Kashaya,' 'Aparajitha churna,' and 'Sukumara erandam' were used to manage the patient's symptoms and underlying stress factors. The efficacy of the treatment was demonstrated by the improvement in her condition.
7) Nidana:
The term 'Nidana' means etiology or cause in Ayurveda. It is crucial for diagnosing and treating diseases. The inconsistency between 'Nidana' (cause) and 'Samprapti' (pathogenesis) in Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder poses a clinical challenge. Accurate identification of 'Nidana' helps in formulating effective treatment plans in Ayurveda.
8) Avara:
'Avara' indicates a lower level or weaker condition in various aspects such as physical strength, mental resilience, and digestion in Ayurvedic diagnostics. The patient in the case study had 'Avara satwa' (weak mental condition), 'Avara ahara shakti' (low digestive power), among other 'Avara' qualities, which were considered in her treatment plan.
9) Food:
Food plays a significant role in Ayurveda, particularly in diagnosing and treating conditions related to 'Ahara shakti' (power of food digestion). The patient's reduced appetite and irregular bowel habits were part of her health assessment. Recommendations likely included dietary changes to improve digestion and overall health.
10) Madhyama:
In Ayurveda, 'Madhyama' refers to a moderate level of certain qualities. The patient had 'Madhyama sara' (moderate excellence of tissue elements), 'Madhyama samhanana' (moderate compactness of tissues), and 'Madhyama satmya' (moderate homologation). These moderate levels were factored into the customized treatment plan for her condition.
11) Shakti (Sakti):
'Shakti' in Ayurveda denotes power or strength in various capabilities. The patient exhibited 'Avara shakti' (weak power) in areas like exercise performance ('Vyayama shakti') and digestion ('Jarana shakti'). Evaluating her 'Shakti' levels helped in creating a balanced treatment approach to enhance her bodily functions.
12) Vyana:
'Vyana' refers to one of the five subtypes of 'Vata' dosha in Ayurveda, governing circulation, movement, and coordination. The patient's treatment aimed to correct 'Vyana vayu' to address her symptoms of weakness and numbness. Ensuring the proper functioning of 'Vyana vayu' was essential for her recovery.
13) Madhavanidana (Madhava-nidana):
[see source text or glossary: Madhava-nidana]
14) Discussion:
[see source text or glossary: Discussion]
15) Samprapti:
In Ayurveda, 'Samprapti' refers to the pathogenesis or the developmental pathway of a disease. The inconsistency between 'Samprapti' and 'Nidana' in the patient's condition made diagnosis and treatment challenging. Understanding 'Samprapti' helps to identify how a disease manifests and evolves, guiding effective intervention.
16) Dhanyamla (Dhanya-amla):
'Dhanyamla' is an Ayurvedic fermented liquid preparation used for detoxification and balancing doshas. In the case study, it was part of the 'Vyatyasa chikitsa' therapy, alternating between dry and unctuous treatments. 'Dhanyamla' helps in removing 'Avarana' or obstructions in bodily channels, aiding in the patient's recovery.
17) Drakshadi (Draksadi):
'Drakshadi' in Ayurveda typically refers to preparations containing grapes ('Draksha') and is known for its 'Vatapittahara' properties. 'Drakshadi Kashaya,' used in the case study, was given to balance 'Vata' and 'Pitta' doshas. Such preparations are beneficial in treating stress-related conditions and neurological symptoms.
18) Triphala (Tri-phala):
'Triphala' is an Ayurvedic herbal formulation consisting of three fruits: Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. It is commonly used for detoxification and balancing doshas. In the case study, 'Triphala Churna' was used in therapies to aid in the elimination of 'Avarana,' helping to restore normal physiological functions.
19) Marriage:
Marriage is a significant factor in the patient's case. Her marital life involved considerable stress, including conflicts with her in-laws and sexual abuse, which contributed to her psychological turmoil. These stressors played a crucial role in the development of her Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder.
20) Madhava:
[see source text or glossary: Madhava]
21) Nasya (Nashya):
'Nasya' is an Ayurvedic therapy involving the administration of medicinal substances through the nasal passages. In the case study, 'Marsa Nasya' with 'Ksheerabala taila (101 A)' was given to the patient to help correct 'Udana anulomana' and reach 'Pranastana', addressing 'Raja tamodosha'.
22) Taila (Thaila):
'Taila' in Ayurveda refers to oil used in various therapies. The patient received treatments with 'Sahacharadi tailam' and 'Ksheerabala taila (101 A)'. Oils in Ayurveda are used for their specific therapeutic properties, aiding in the treatment of both physiological and psychological conditions.
23) Gathin (Gathi):
In Ayurveda, 'Gathi' refers to movement or mobility, particularly of limbs and other motor functions. The patient's 'Gathi' was affected, presenting as weakness and numbness in her limbs. Ayurvedic therapies aimed at restoring normal 'Gathi' by addressing underlying 'Avarana' and dosha imbalances.
24) Bala:
'Bala' in Ayurveda signifies strength or power, particularly physical strength. The patient had 'Hina bala' (reduced physical strength), which was a critical factor in her treatment. Boosting 'Bala' through specific therapies and medicines was a part of the comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment plan.
25) Vata:
'Vata' is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and coordination in the body. The patient's symptoms indicated an imbalance in 'Vata' dosha, particularly affecting 'Vyana vayu'. The treatment aimed to balance 'Vata' to alleviate her neurological symptoms and improve overall health.
26) Vayu:
'Vayu' in Ayurveda refers to wind or air, and it is a key element in the 'Vata' dosha. Functional disturbances in 'Vayu' could lead to conditions like the patient's, where 'Vyana vayu' and 'Apana vayu' needed correction through specific therapies. Balancing 'Vayu' is critical for managing 'Vata' disorders.
27) Fear:
Fear is a significant emotional factor contributing to the patient's condition. Her fears, partially stemming from family conflicts and abuse, led to the development of symptoms. Hypnotherapy and Ayurvedic treatments aimed to address this fear, transforming it into a manageable emotional state.
28) Vyayamashakti (Vyayamasakti, Vyayama-shakti):
'Vyayama-shakti' refers to the strength or power to perform physical exercise. The patient had 'Avara vyayama shakti,' meaning her ability to perform physical activities was reduced. Enhancing 'Vyayama-shakti' was part of the integrated treatment plan to improve her overall physical condition.
29) Vatapittahara (Vatapitta-hara):
'Vatapittahara' denotes substances or therapies that balance both 'Vata' and 'Pitta' doshas. 'Drakshadi Kashaya,' one of the medicines given to the patient, has 'Vatapittahara' properties. Such formulations are chosen to address symptoms linked to the imbalance of these two doshas.
30) Jaranashakti (Jaranasakti, Jarana-shakti):
'Jarana-shakti' refers to the power of digestion. The patient had 'Avara jarana shakti,' indicating weak digestive capacity. Ayurvedic treatment includes dietary and herbal interventions to improve 'Jarana-shakti', ensuring that the patient can efficiently digest and assimilate food for better health.
31) Aharashakti (Aharasakti, Ahara-shakti):
'Ahara-shakti' in Ayurveda signifies the power to ingest and process food. The patient exhibited 'Avara ahara shakti,' denoting low capacity to consume and digest food. Treatments aimed to enhance 'Ahara-shakti' included the use of specific herbs and dietary recommendations to improve her nutritional status.
32) Vatavyadhi (Vata-vyadhi):
'Vata-vyadhi' refers to diseases caused by an imbalance in 'Vata' dosha. The patient's condition showed symptoms similar to 'Vata-vyadhi,' such as weakness and numbness. Ayurvedic treatment aimed to balance 'Vata' dosha through therapies and medications to alleviate her symptoms.
33) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
'Kapha-dosha' is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for structure and stability in the body. The patient's treatment involved addressing 'Kapha dosha,' particularly in the context of 'Avarana' (obstruction). Balancing 'Kapha' was essential to improve her mobility and sensory functions.
34) Vyanavayu (Vyana-vayu):
'Vyana-vayu' is a subtype of 'Vata' dosha associated with circulation and distribution of nutrients throughout the body. The patient's symptoms suggested an imbalance in 'Vyana-vayu,' leading to weakness and numbness. Correcting the 'Vyana-vayu' was a key focus of the Ayurvedic treatment.
35) Apanavayu (Apana-vayu):
'Apana-vayu' is another subtype of 'Vata' dosha responsible for the downward movement of bodily waste. The patient's treatment included 'Sukumara erandam' to aid 'Apana vayu anulomarta,' ensuring the proper elimination of waste and effective treatment of gastrointestinal issues.
36) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
'Vata-pitta' indicates a combined imbalance of both 'Vata' and 'Pitta' doshas. The patient's assessment showed a 'Vata-pitta prakriti,' and her treatment aimed at balancing both doshas. This required using specific therapies and medicines that address both 'Vata' and 'Pitta' imbalances effectively.
37) Perception:
[see source text or glossary: Perception]
38) Anulomana:
'Anulomana' in Ayurveda refers to the proper downward movement of doshas, particularly 'Vata.' The patient's treatment included therapies like 'Nasya' and medications to ensure 'Anulomana,' aiding in the proper physiological functioning and alleviating symptoms like weakness and sensory loss.
39) Samhanana:
'Samhanana' describes the compactness and strength of body tissues in Ayurveda. The patient had 'Madhyama samhanana,' indicating moderate tissue strength. Evaluating 'Samhanana' helps in understanding a patient's physical resilience and tailoring treatments to improve tissue integrity.
40) Hinabala:
'Hina-bala' in Ayurveda signifies reduced physical strength. The patient exhibited 'Hina Bala,' impacting her overall vitality and ability to perform daily activities. The Ayurvedic treatment aimed to increase her 'Bala' through specific therapies and herbal medicines, improving her strength and functionality.
41) Blindness:
[see source text or glossary: Blindness]
42) Rukshana (Ruksana):
'Rukshana' refers to dry therapies in Ayurveda, used to reduce excess 'Kapha' and moisture in the body. In the case study, 'Udwartana' with 'Kolakulathadi churna' was initially administered due to its 'Rukshana' properties, aiming to treat the patient's symptoms of heaviness and lack of movement.
43) Lakshana (Laksana):
'Lakshana' means symptoms or signs of a disease. In the case study, the patient exhibited 'Lakshanas' of Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND), such as weakness and numbness of limbs. Identifying these 'Lakshanas' is key in diagnosing and formulating an effective treatment plan.
44) Prakriti (Prakrti):
'Prakriti' in Ayurveda denotes an individual's natural constitution or body type. The patient's 'Prakriti' was assessed as 'Vata-pitta,' indicating tendencies towards issues like anxiety and digestive problems. Understanding 'Prakriti' aids in personalized treatment, focusing on balancing specific doshas.
45) Hysteria:
[see source text or glossary: Hysteria]
46) Vyayama:
In Ayurveda, 'Vyayama' refers to physical exercise or activity. The patient's reduced 'Vyayama shakti' indicated her limited capability to perform physical tasks. Improving 'Vyayama' through tailored therapeutic exercises is important for restoring physical strength and overall health.
47) Snigdha:
'Snigdha' refers to unctuous or oily therapies in Ayurveda, used to balance 'Vata' and improve lubrication in tissues. The patient underwent 'Abhyanga' (oil massage) with 'Sahacharadi tailam' as part of 'Snigdha chikitsa' to address her symptoms of dryness and improve overall mobility.
48) Disease:
[see source text or glossary: Disease]
49) Satmya:
'Satmya' signifies compatibility or habituation in Ayurveda, referring to what is beneficial and agreeable to an individual. The patient had 'Madhyama Satmya,' indicating a moderate level of habituation to certain foods and lifestyles. Understanding 'Satmya' helps in formulating suitable dietary and lifestyle recommendations.
50) Jarana:
'Jarana' refers to the process of digestion. The patient had 'Avara jarana shakti,' indicating weak digestive power, which was an important aspect to address in the treatment plan. Ayurvedic interventions aim to enhance 'Jarana' by using specific herbs and dietary adjustments to improve overall digestion.
51) Kerala:
Kerala is the state in India where VPSV Ayurveda College is located, and it plays a significant role in the case study. The institution provided the setting for the patient's Ayurvedic treatment under the supervision of experienced faculty. Kerala is known for its rich tradition in Ayurvedic medicine.
52) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
'Vyadhi' is the term used for disease in Ayurveda. The patient's condition was diagnosed as 'Yoshapasmara' in Ayurvedic terms, which is comparable to Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND). Identifying the type of 'Vyadhi' is essential for tailoring specific treatments to manage and cure the illness.
53) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]
54) Powder:
[see source text or glossary: Powder]
55) Dosha (Dosa):
'Dosha' refers to the three fundamental bodily humors in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The patient's treatment focused on balancing these doshas, particularly 'Vata' and 'Kapha' which were disrupted. Proper dosha balance is crucial for maintaining health and treating Ayurvedic conditions.
56) Pitta:
'Pitta' is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, mainly responsible for metabolism and transformation in the body. The patient had a 'Vata-pitta prakriti,' and her treatment aimed to balance 'Pitta' along with 'Vata'. Excess 'Pitta' can contribute to symptoms like inflammation and digestive issues.
57) Kapha:
'Kapha' is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for stability and lubrication in the body. The patient's treatment involved addressing symptoms related to 'Kapha,' such as heaviness and congestion. Balancing 'Kapha' through specific therapies was essential for her recovery.
58) Udana:
'Udana' is a subtype of 'Vata' dosha related to speech, effort, and respiratory functions. The patient's treatment included 'Marsa Nasya' to correct 'Udana anulomana,' ensuring proper physiological functions related to 'Udana vayu'. Balancing 'Udana' is key in treating various neurological and respiratory conditions.
59) Ahara:
'Ahara' is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda, referring to food and nutrition. The patient's dietary habits and 'Ahara shakti' (digestive power) were assessed to create a suitable treatment plan. Proper 'Ahara' is crucial for maintaining health and aiding in the treatment of various conditions.
60) Apana:
[see source text or glossary: Apana]
61) Usma (Ushma):
'Ushma' refers to heat therapies in Ayurveda, used to balance doshas and alleviate symptoms like stiffness and heaviness. The patient underwent 'Ushma sweda' (steam therapy) with 'Sahacharadi tailam' as part of her treatment. 'Ushma' helps in improving circulation and reducing 'Kapha' excess.
62) India:
[see source text or glossary: India]
63) Ayus (Ayush):
'Ayush' represents traditional systems of healthcare in India, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The journal 'Ayushdhara' focuses on research in these fields, and the case study presented illustrates the integration of Ayurveda and hypnotherapy in treating a complex condition.
64) Edema (Oedema):
[see source text or glossary: Edema]
65) Pulse:
[see source text or glossary: Pulse]
66) House:
[see source text or glossary: House]
67) Blood:
[see source text or glossary: Blood]
68) Vaca:
'Vacha' is an Ayurvedic herb known for its cognitive benefits and stress-relieving properties. In the case study, the patient was given 'Vacha churna' to address her stress factors. It aids in reducing anxiety and improving mental clarity, contributing to the overall treatment of her condition.
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