The role of ayurveda in the management of post covid-19 mental health

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “The role of ayurveda in the management of post covid-19 mental health”. 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) Mental health:
Mental health refers to the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of individuals. It influences how people think, feel, and behave. Poor mental health can arise from various factors, including stress from events like the Covid-19 pandemic. The article emphasizes the need for mental health management, particularly after traumatic experiences, using Ayurvedic methods.

2) Kala:
Kala, referring to the author Dr. Kavya Kala, is important as she presents insights on Ayurveda and mental health. Her academic position as an assistant professor suggests credibility in the subject matter. The article serves as a platform for her research and theories about managing post-Covid mental health through Ayurvedic principles.

3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance in the body, mind, and spirit through natural healing methods. The article discusses how Ayurvedic practices can mitigate psychological issues stemming from Covid-19, highlighting the relevance of Ayurvedic principles in addressing modern psychological challenges.

4) Disease:
Diseases encompass various conditions affecting health, both physical and mental. The pandemic context provided in the article underscores how widespread diseases can lead to psychological distress, necessitating comprehensive management strategies including Ayurvedic practices to promote holistic healing.

5) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a feeling of unease or fear that can manifest in various degrees and forms. The article highlights how individuals developed increased levels of anxiety during the pandemic due to isolation, job insecurity, and health fears, emphasizing the importance of managing such anxiety, particularly through Ayurvedic practices.

6) Fear:
Fear is an emotional response to perceived threats. The pandemic instigated widespread fear concerning health, job security, and uncertainty about the future. The paper illustrates how heightened fear contributes to mental disorders and explores Ayurvedic methods to alleviate these fears, resonating with ancient teachings on managing emotional balance.

7) Depression:
Depression is a serious mental health condition that can lead to persistent sadness and a lack of interest in life. The article notes that depression increased during the pandemic, particularly among vulnerable groups, and emphasizes Ayurvedic management approaches to treat and prevent depression, highlighting the importance of mental well-being.

8) Taila (Thaila):
Taila, or oil, is significant in Ayurvedic practices, particularly in therapies like Shirodhara and Abhyanga, which are used to relieve physical and mental stress. The article discusses how specific medicated oils can help in relaxation and stress reduction, contributing to the overall management of mental health.

9) Yoga:
Yoga is a holistic practice encompassing physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation aimed at promoting mental and physical well-being. The article highlights the benefits of yoga in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, asserting its role as a beneficial practice in Ayurveda for mental health management post-Covid.

10) Post:
The term 'post' refers to the period after a significant event, in this context, the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. The article discusses how post-Covid conditions have led to various mental health challenges, and the need for effective management strategies, particularly from an Ayurvedic perspective.

11) Viru:
Viru refers to viruses, specifically in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has globally impacted health and mental wellness. The article connects the psychological consequences stemming from viral infections, emphasizing the necessity of holistic approaches like Ayurveda to address both physical and mental health.

12) Meditation:
Meditation is a mental practice that involves focusing one’s mind to achieve clarity and mental calmness. The article discusses meditation as part of the therapeutic approach to managing post-Covid mental health, emphasizing its role in reducing anxiety and promoting emotional stability through Ayurvedic techniques.

13) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is an Ayurvedic herb noted for its rejuvenating properties and benefits for mental function. The article highlights its relevance in managing stress and depression following the pandemic, as it impacts neurotransmitters involved in mental health, showcasing Ayurveda's natural approach to wellness.

14) Asana (Ashana):
Ashana refers to postures or positions in yoga, which can aid in relaxation and stress relief. Though less discussed in the article, it ties into the broader theme of yoga’s importance in mental health management and maintaining emotional equilibrium through physical practices.

15) Kriya:
Kriya signifies action or procedure, particularly in yoga and also in Ayurveda. The article outlines how specific kriyas can help individuals cope with stress and mental disorders, further illustrating the utility of Ayurvedic practices in supporting mental health post-pandemic.

16) Drug:
Drugs, in this context, refer to conventional medications that can treat physical and mental health issues. The article emphasizes that while drugs are vital, incorporating Ayurvedic approaches can provide holistic health solutions and promote better management of mental health issues arising from crises like the pandemic.

17) Jyotishmati (Jyotirmati, Jyotismati):
Jyotishmati (Celastrus paniculatus) is highlighted in the article for its cognitive enhancing properties. As a component in Ayurvedic treatment, it aids memory and cognition, making it relevant for addressing mental health challenges intensified during the pandemic.

18) Balataila (Bala-taila):
Bala-taila is a specific medicated oil used in Ayurvedic therapy, particularly for its calming effects. The article mentions Baala oily treatments like Shirodhara as effective in stress relief, showcasing the integration of physical therapies in improving mental health outcomes post-Covid.

19) Tridosha (Tri-dosha, Tridosa):
Tridosha is a foundational concept in Ayurveda, representing the three biological energies (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) that govern physiological processes. The article highlights the importance of maintaining a balance among the Tridoshas for holistic health and mental well-being, particularly following life disruptions like pandemics.

20) Neurosis:
Neurosis refers to a range of mental health issues including anxiety and depression, often triggered by stressful life events. The article emphasizes the rise of neuroses during the pandemic and advocates for Ayurveda-based remedies to address these mental health challenges, reflecting a broader understanding of psychological disorders.

21) Samhita:
Samhita refers to ancient Ayurvedic texts that contain knowledge on medicine, health, and treatments. The article references classic Samhitas to draw connections between traditional Ayurvedic understanding and current health issues, underscoring the relevance of ancient wisdom in modern contexts like the Covid-19 pandemic.

22) Dravya:
Dravya refers to substances or herbs in Ayurveda that are used for healing. The article discusses various Dravyas that play a critical role in managing post-Covid mental health, highlighting the significance of natural remedies in restoring balance and alleviating psychological distress.

23) Medhya:
Medhya refers to intellect or memory-enhancing aspects in Ayurveda. The article mentions Medhya Rasayan as a treatment approach for improving cognitive functions post-pandemic, emphasizing Ayurveda's parameters to combat forgetfulness and mental fatigue aggravated by the stress of Covid-19.

24) India:
India is the country where Ayurveda originated, serving as a rich historical and cultural context for the practice. The article showcases how Indian medicinal traditions can effectively address modern psychological challenges, illustrating the global relevance of Ayurvedic methodologies in health management.

25) Grief:
Grief is the emotion experienced due to loss, commonly intensified during the pandemic through loss of loved ones or employment. The article discusses how grieving can affect mental health, stressing the importance of Ayurvedic practices in providing support and healing through natural methods.

26) Agni:
In Ayurveda, Agni represents metabolic fire and is crucial for maintaining overall health. The article mentions Agni in relation to digestion and holistic wellness, emphasizing that a balanced Agni contributes to not just physical stability but also mental health, particularly during stressful times like the pandemic.

27) Bala:
Bala relates to strength or vitality, often used in the context of Ayurvedic treatments. The article connects this term to therapies that enhance mental health and resilience, emphasizing the role of strengthening practices in coping with the psychological impacts of prolonged stress.

28) Vayu:
Vayu translates to air or wind, one of the three doshas in Ayurveda. The article discusses Vayu's relevance in terms of maintaining balance and health, suggesting that disturbances in Vayu can contribute to mental health issues during times of crisis like the Covid-19 pandemic.

29) Mana:
Mana represents the mind in Ayurveda, emphasizing its crucial role in mental health. The article outlines how disturbances in Mana lead to mental disorders, particularly during stressful events like the pandemic, underlining the need for holistic measures to restore mental balance through Ayurveda.

30) Diet:
Diet plays a significant role in overall health, including mental well-being in Ayurveda. The article stresses how imbalances in diet during the pandemic led to increased mental health issues, advocating for mindful eating practices that align with Ayurvedic principles to support mental clarity and emotional stability.

31) Rich (Rch):
Rich implies abundance or a wealth of resources. The article notes the rich heritage of Ayurvedic knowledge and its diverse applications in treating mental health concerns. This wealth of information underscores the potential of Ayurveda in contemporary health challenges stemming from situations like the Covid-19 pandemic.

32) Mental disorder:
Mental disorder encompasses various psychological conditions that affect mental functioning. The article points out the increase in mental disorders as a consequence of the pandemic, highlighting how Ayurvedic approaches can effectively address and remediate these issues, focusing on natural processes to restore stability.

33) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus, commonly known as Shatavari, is recognized for its revitalizing properties in Ayurveda. The article discusses its relevance in alleviating mental health concerns, particularly in stressful situations like the pandemic, showcasing the use of natural herbs to enhance emotional resilience and cognitive function.

34) Sadhakapitta (Sadhaka-pitta):
Sadhaka Pitta is one of the subtypes of Pitta dosha in Ayurveda associated with emotional processing and mental clarity. The article suggests that managing Sadhaka Pitta can be essential for overall mental health, especially in the context of stress and anxiety heightened during the pandemic.

35) Tarpakakapha (Tarpaka-kapha):
Tarpaka Kapha pertains to the aspect of Kapha dosha responsible for mental stability and emotional health. The article highlights its significance in addressing mental health issues arising from pandemic-related stress, advocating for Ayurvedic treatments aimed at balancing Tarpaka Kapha.

36) Transmission:
Transmission in this context refers to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, significantly impacting public health and mental well-being globally. The article illustrates how the mechanisms of transmission contributed to widespread fear and anxiety, underscoring the need for holistic approaches to manage these emotional responses after the pandemic.

37) Ashvagandha (Ashva-gandha, Ashvagamdha, Ashwagandha, Asvagandha):
Ashwagandha is a commonly used herb in Ayurveda known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body manage stress. The article mentions its importance in treating anxiety and mental health issues that arose post-Covid, highlighting the significance of herbal remedies in supporting psychological resilience.

38) Shirodhara (Sirodhara, Shiras-dhara):
Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic therapy involving the pouring of medicated oil on the forehead. The article describes its calming effects, emphasizing its role in relieving stress and anxiety, showcasing how traditional practices can be effective in managing mental health already compromised by pandemic-induced pressures.

39) Suffering:
Suffering refers to the emotional and physical pain experienced by individuals, which escalated during the Covid-19 pandemic. The article emphasizes the surge in mental health issues and how Ayurvedic treatments can alleviate such suffering, advocating for a holistic approach to healing and recovery.

40) Shavasana (Shava-asana, Savasana):
Shavasana (Corpse Pose) is a restorative yoga posture important for relaxation and stress release. The article highlights this pose as beneficial in managing mental health, reiterating how incorporating yoga practices can enhance overall emotional well-being, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic stressors.

41) Anutaila (Anu-taila):
Anu-taila is a medicated oil utilized in Ayurvedic therapy for its calming and therapeutic effects. The article mentions Anu-taila in the context of stress relief and enhancing mental clarity, pointing out its application in therapy to restore emotional balance post-Covid.

42) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the disturbance or imbalance of the mind and body in Ayurveda. The article discusses how vitiation, especially due to pandemic stressors, can lead to mental health issues, underscoring the need for Ayurvedic interventions to restore balance and well-being in affected individuals.

43) Gathering:
Gathering typically refers to social engagement, which was significantly disrupted during the pandemic due to lockdown measures. The article points to the psychological effects of social isolation, emphasizing how Ayurveda can provide frameworks for rebuilding social connections in ways that support mental health post-crisis.

44) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the practice of diagnosing and treating illnesses. In the context of this article, it highlights the application of Ayurvedic medicine as a holistic approach to treat not just physical ailments but also mental health issues exacerbated by the pandemic, promoting overall wellness.

45) Language:
Language refers to the means of communication, which can also affect mental health through social stigma and misunderstandings regarding mental illness. The article notes that language barriers can prevent certain populations from accessing mental health support, underlining the importance of clear and inclusive communication in healthcare settings.

46) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriya refers to the senses in Ayurveda, which are fundamental to mental experiences and perceptions. The article mentions the significance of balancing Indriya for mental health, emphasizing how sensory experiences can correlate with emotional states and overall psychological well-being during challenging times.

47) Sadhaka:
Sadhaka is a subtype of Pitta dosha related to mental function and emotional well-being. The article highlights its relevance in achieving mental clarity and emotional stability, suggesting that Ayurvedic interventions can help balance Sadhaka Pitta to address mental health issues post-pandemic.

48) Tarpaka:
Tarpaka is a subtype of Kapha dosha that influences mental stability and coherence. The article discusses how Tarpaka's balance is crucial for mental well-being, particularly after stressful events like the pandemic, showcasing Ayurvedic methods to restore its equilibrium for improved cognitive function.

49) Falling:
Falling can relate to the declining mental health status of individuals during the pandemic. The article points out that many faced psychological challenges as related to job security and health fears, and advocates for Ayurvedic approaches to mitigate the effects of such distress and promote emotional resilience.

50) Brahmi:
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is an Ayurvedic herb known for its cognitive enhancement and calming abilities. The article discusses its application in managing anxiety and boosting mental acuity, emphasizing herbal medicine's vital role in supporting mental health in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

51) Chinta:
Chinta refers to worry or anxiety over potential problems. The article highlights how excessive Chinta has emerged as a significant issue during the pandemic, leading to heightened stress and mental health deterioration, thus necessitating effective management strategies from an Ayurvedic perspective to mitigate adverse effects.

52) Family:
Family refers to the familial relationships that were notably affected during the pandemic, with increased stresses stemming from loss or job insecurity. The article discusses how familial support is crucial for psychological health and highlights Ayurvedic approaches to foster family cohesion and emotional resilience amid challenges.

53) Bitter:
Bitter underscores the unpleasant or challenging experiences related to mental health, particularly amidst societal stigma surrounding mental illnesses. The article frames the mental health challenges faced during the pandemic as bitter truths, advocating for the importance of addressing these issues through compassionate approaches provided by Ayurveda.

54) Reason:
Reason in this context implies the underlying causes of mental health issues encountered during the pandemic. The article delves into multiple reasons for heightened anxiety and stress, emphasizing how Ayurveda can address these root causes and provide suitable interventions for psychological improvement.

55) Indian:
Indian refers to the cultural and historical context of Ayurveda as a traditional healing system originating in India. The article emphasizes the utility of Indian medicinal practices in addressing contemporary issues like mental health, substantiating the relevance of ancient knowledge in modern society.

56) Cattan:
Sathan refers to a place or condition, with specific reference to the situation during the pandemic. The article addresses the evolving conditions of mental and physical health as people faced lockdowns and diseases, underscoring how these conditions necessitated new approaches to health management, specifically through Ayurveda.

57) Aha (Ahan, Ahar):
Aahaar refers to dietary intake, playing a critical role in overall health according to Ayurveda. The article discusses how imbalances or disruptions in diet during the pandemic contributed to mental health issues, highlighting the importance of a balanced Aahaar in restoring psychological and physical well-being post-Covid.

58) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three energy types in Ayurveda (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that govern bodily functions. The article highlights the importance of balancing Doshas for maintaining mental health, particularly in the wake of pandemic-related stress, illustrating how Ayurveda aims to restore equilibrium for emotional well-being.

59) Bhaya:
Bhaya denotes fear, an emotion commonly experienced during the pandemic due to health uncertainties and societal disruptions. The article emphasizes how Bhaya can exacerbate mental health challenges, advocating for proactive mental health strategies rooted in Ayurvedic wisdom to alleviate such fears and promote stability.

60) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas governing metabolism, transformation, and emotional responses in Ayurveda. The article discusses how imbalances in Pitta can lead to mental health issues such as anger and anxiety, emphasizing the importance of regulating Pitta for improved psychological wellbeing post-pandemic.

61) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas responsible for stability, structure, and emotional grounding in Ayurveda. The article highlights how disturbances in Kapha can contribute to lethargy and emotional distress, stressing the importance of maintaining Kapha balance through Ayurvedic practices for holistic health and stability.

62) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya refers to an Ayurvedic therapy involving the administration of medicinal oils through the nasal passage. The article discusses Nasya's role in alleviating stress and anxiety during the pandemic, showcasing the practical applications of traditional therapies in promoting mental health.

63) Desha (Desa):
Desha means country or place, and in this context, it refers to the societal environment impacted by the pandemic. The article discusses how societal factors, including economic hardships and isolation, contribute to mental health challenges, advocating for Ayurvedic approaches to address these community-wide influences on well-being.

64) Shoka (Soka):
Shoka refers to grief or sorrow, an emotion heightened during the pandemic due to loss and separation. The article highlights how Shoka affects mental health and the need for supportive strategies rooted in Ayurveda to help individuals navigate their grief and enhance emotional resilience in challenging times.

65) Water:
Water, or Jala in Ayurveda, symbolizes nourishment and emotional fluidity. In the context of mental health, the article discusses how disruptions in daily routines and access to resources during the pandemic impact emotional well-being, highlighting the importance of restoring balance through holistic means.

66) Anger (Angry):
Angry signifies the intensified state of anger impacting emotional well-being during the pandemic. The article points out that increased levels of anger can lead to negative psychological outcomes, advocating for Ayurvedic practices to help individuals navigate these emotions and restore mental balance.

67) Cina:
China is relevant as the origin of the Covid-19 pandemic that affected the globe, leading to widespread health and mental challenges. The article discusses the implications of such a significant health event on mental health and underscores the need for holistic healing approaches like Ayurveda in response.

68) Raja:
Raja is one of the three Gunas (qualities) in Ayurveda representing activity and passion. It is mentioned in the article as a contributing factor to mental disturbance when in excess, highlighting the importance of balancing Raja to achieve mental health stability in the wake of life stressors.

69) Tama:
Tama is the quality of inertia and darkness among the three Gunas in Ayurveda. The article discusses how an excess of Tama can lead to lethargy and depression, stressing the need for active management strategies, particularly from an Ayurvedic perspective, to uplift mental health in difficult times.

70) Atman (Atma):
Atma signifies the soul or self in Ayurveda and philosophy. The article implies that understanding the Atma's significance is essential for addressing overall health, including mental wellness, and encourages practices that nourish both body and spirit to restore balance and improve quality of life.

71) Sama (Shama):
Sama indicates equilibrium or balance, which is essential for both physical and mental health in Ayurveda. The article stresses the importance of achieving Sama throughout all aspects of life to combat the psychological stresses amplified by the pandemic, advocating holistic practices to return to a state of equilibrium.

72) Jala:
Jala translates to water, an essential element for life and health. The article discusses how disruptions during the pandemic, including access to clean water and resources, affect mental well-being, underscoring the need for ensuring accessible and balanced resources for maintaining emotional health.

73) Food:
Food is crucial in Ayurveda for maintaining health, impacting both physical and mental states. The article highlights that poor dietary habits during the pandemic contributed to mental health issues, advocating for balanced, healthy Aahaar as a means to alleviate psychological distress and improve overall wellness.

74) Sign:
Sign refers to indicators or symptoms, particularly in the context of health conditions. The article mentions the signs of mental health issues that surfaced during the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these signs for effective intervention and support, especially through Ayurvedic practices.

75) Life:
Life encompasses the entire human experience, including emotional health and well-being. The article emphasizes that stressors faced during the pandemic significantly impacted life quality, highlighting that Ayurveda offers potential pathways to restore balance and enhance the quality of life through holistic methods of healing.