Clinical evaluation of Medhya Rasayana in anxiety neurosis.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Clinical evaluation of medhya rasayana compound in cases of non-depressive anxiety neurosis
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The clinical evaluation of Medhya Rasayana, a compound consisting of traditional Ayurvedic herbs, was conducted to assess its efficacy in treating non-depressive anxiety neurosis. The study involved 28 patients from the Kayachikitsa outpatient department at Banaras Hindu University. The primary aim was to determine the clinical relief offered by the Medhya Rasayana therapy, particularly in alleviating various anxiety symptoms such as nervousness, palpitation, insomnia, irritability, and lack of concentration. Four classical Medhya Rasayana drugs—Sankhapuspi, Mandukaparni, Guduci, and Yastimadhu—were administered in a combined form to evaluate their collective impact.
Efficacy of Combined Medhya Rasayana Therapy
The study's results revealed significant improvements in anxiety symptoms, as indicated by the Clinical Anxiety Scale, with marked reductions in nervousness and headache (p<0.001) observed after one month of treatment. Additionally, the depression index also showed a notable decline (p<0.01), suggesting that the therapy mitigates underlying depressive symptoms even though patients were initially selected for having no overt depression. Physiological improvements were recorded as well, including increased body weight and reductions in pulse rate and blood pressure, enhancing the overall sense of well-being among patients. The combination of these herbs is believed to provide adaptogenic and restorative benefits, thus reinforcing the therapeutic potential of Medhya Rasayana.
Conclusion
The trial concluded that Medhya Rasayana therapy is a safe and moderately effective treatment for non-depressive anxiety neurosis. The absence of significant side effects and the observable clinical improvements highlight its potential as a valuable therapeutic option in managing minor to moderate mental health issues. Although further research may be necessary to explore the implications for major mental health disorders and longer-term effects, initial findings indicate that the combined use of these four classical Medhya Rasayana drugs offers a promising approach to enhancing mental health and well-being.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
A.K. Koushik, R.H. Singh
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Clinical evaluation of medhya rasayana compound in cases of non-depressive anxiety neurosis
Year: 1982
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the aim of the clinical study on Medhya Rasayana?
The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a combined Medhya Rasayana therapy for treating anxiety neurosis, assessing its effects on clinical anxiety symptoms, depression, and overall physiological health.
What are the main symptoms addressed in the study?
The study focused on symptoms of anxiety such as nervousness, palpitations, insomnia, irritability, lack of concentration, and related gastrointestinal issues, using a Clinical Anxiety Scale for measurement.
What were the findings regarding patient health after treatment?
Patients reported significant improvements in anxiety symptoms and depression. There was an increase in body weight, alongside decreases in pulse rate and blood pressure, indicating overall health improvement.
Were there any side effects observed during the treatment?
The study indicated no undesirable side effects from the Medhya Rasayana therapy, suggesting it is a safe and moderately effective treatment for minor and moderate mental health issues.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Clinical evaluation of Medhya Rasayana in anxiety neurosis.”. 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) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana, Rasāyana, Rāsāyana):
Rasayana refers to a class of herbal preparations in Ayurvedic medicine that promote rejuvenation and longevity. These compounds are believed to nurture the body, enhance vitality, and support mental and physical health, playing a crucial role in treating various ailments, including mental illnesses, by fostering overall well-being and balance.
2) Medhya (Medhyā, Meḍhyā):
Medhya signifies substances that are associated with brain health in Ayurvedic literature. These preparations are aimed at improving cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity. In the study, Medhya Rasayana compounds were evaluated for their efficacy against anxiety and depression, underlining their importance in mental health treatments.
3) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a psychological condition characterized by feelings of tension, worry, and physical changes like increased blood pressure. It is a common manifestation in various mental disorders. The study explores Medhya Rasayana's effect on anxiety neurosis, highlighting its potential as a natural remedy for alleviating anxiety symptoms among patients.
4) Drug:
In this context, 'drug' refers to medicinal substances used for treatment. The study focuses on the efficacy of Medhya Rasayana drugs in managing anxiety neurosis. Understanding the pharmacological properties of these herbal compounds is essential for substantiating their use in Ayurvedic medicine and clinical settings.
5) Depression:
Depression represents a mood disorder that results in persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest. The study employed a depression scale to assess underlying depressive symptoms in patients with anxiety neurosis, suggesting a comorbid association between these conditions, and evaluating how Medhya Rasayana therapy addressed these symptoms.
6) Neurosis:
Neurosis encompasses a range of psychological conditions involving anxiety, obsessions, and phobias. The term describes mild mental illnesses that do not impair reality grasp but significantly affect emotional well-being. The study investigates Medhya Rasayana's effectiveness for anxiety neurosis, signifying its potential role in neurosis treatment guidelines.
7) Yashtimadhu (Yaṣṭimadhu, Yashti-madhu, Yaṣṭīmadhu):
Yastimadhu, known as Glycyrrhiza glabra or licorice, is one of the four classical Medhya Rasayana herbs mentioned in Ayurveda. It is revered for its anti-stress and adaptogenic properties, contributing to overall mental health improvement. The inclusion of Yastimadhu in the compound underscores its therapeutic significance in alleviating anxiety.
8) Manas (Mano, Manash, Māṇo):
Manas refers to the mind or the mental faculties in Ayurveda. It is considered crucial in understanding mental health and disorders. The research emphasizes the role of Medhya Rasayana therapies in maintaining Manas, reflecting their importance in harmonizing mental processes and promoting psychological wellness among patients.
9) Roga:
Roga translates to disease or disorder in Ayurveda. It emphasizes the significance of recognizing different Rogas, including mental health disorders, and understanding their etiology. The study focuses on anxiety neurosis as a vital aspect of Manas Rogas, presenting Medhya Rasayana as a therapeutic approach to treating such conditions.
10) Mana (Māṇa, Māna, Maṉa, Maṉā, Māṉa, Māṉā):
Mana can be associated with mental processes and consciousness. In Ayurveda, understanding the nuances of Mana is essential for addressing disorders effectively. This research endeavors to study Medhya Rasayana’s influence on Mana while treating anxiety neurosis, highlighting the intricacies of mental health within Ayurvedic practices.
11) Shankhapushpi (Śaṅkhapuṣpī, Śaṃkhapuṣpī):
Sankhapuspi, or Clitoria ternatea, is a traditional herb known for its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. Its inclusion in the study underscores the significance of this plant in treating anxiety and improving mental clarity, demonstrating its beneficial effects as part of the combined Medhya Rasayana treatment protocol.
12) Activity:
Activity in this context pertains to therapeutic effects or actions of the Medhya Rasayana drugs on clinical symptoms of anxiety and depression. The study evaluates the improved activities of patients, linking positive health changes demonstrated through quantitative assessments and visual observations during therapy with Medhya Rasayana.
13) Guduci (Guḍuci, Guḍūci, Guḍūcī, Guḍucī):
Guduci, or Tinospora cordifolia, is another herb employed in Ayurvedic medicine known for its revitalizing and rejuvenating properties. The study suggests that Guduci may not have direct psychotropic effects, but its restorative characteristics contribute positively to Medhya Rasayana's overall therapeutic efficacy in treating anxiety neurosis.
14) Psychosis:
Psychosis describes a mental condition characterized by a disconnection from reality, often exhibiting delusions and hallucinations. The study excluded patients displaying psychotic symptoms, emphasizing the focus on anxiety neurosis. The significance of assessing psychosis symptoms within mental health evaluation indicates the study's thoroughness in patient selection.
15) Caraka (Cāraka, Cārāka):
Caraka refers to an ancient Ayurvedic sage credited with compiling significant medical texts, particularly the Caraka Samhita. This foundational text elaborates on various herbal treatments and medical knowledge, providing the basis for understanding the historical context and principles underpinning Medhya Rasayana therapies explored in the study.
16) Caraka-samhita (Caraka-saṃhitā):
Caraka-samhita is a revered ancient Ayurvedic text that details medicinal practices, including the description of Medhya Rasayana drugs. The study illustrates the clinical application of these ancient principles, reinforcing the relevance of traditional knowledge in contemporary practice for managing mental health, particularly anxiety neurosis.
17) Mandukaparni (Maṇḍūkaparṇī, Manduka-parni, Mamdukaparni):
Mandukaparni, or Centella asiatica, is known for its cognitive-enhancing properties in Ayurvedic medicine. As one of the four classical Medhya Rasayana herbs, its presence in the study highlights its contribution to improving mental clarity and emotional stability, aligning with the therapeutic goals of managing anxiety and depression.
18) Samhita (Saṃhitā, Saṃhita):
Samhita refers to a collection or compilation of texts in Ayurveda that provide detailed information about medicinal drugs, their preparation, and therapeutic methodologies. The study's reference to Caraka Samhita and its prescriptions for Medhya Rasayana illustrates its importance as a guiding text in integrating traditional remedies within clinical evaluations.
19) Science (Scientific):
In the context of this study, science intertwines with traditional Ayurvedic practices to validate the therapeutic effects of Medhya Rasayana through clinical trials. The scientific evaluation of ancient remedies reflects an intersection of traditional wisdom and empirical research, essential for gaining acceptance in modern medical paradigms.
20) Kashaya (Kāṣāya, Kāśaya, Kāsāya, Kaṣāya, Kaśāya, Kāsaya, Kaṣāyā, Kasāya, Kasaya):
Kasaya refers to a type of herbal decoction in Ayurvedic medicine, focusing on the boiling of medicinal plants in water to extract their beneficial components. The study highlights the preparation of Medhya Rasayana Kasaya, emphasizing its practical application in treating anxiety neurosis effectively during the clinical trial.
21) Simha (Siṃha):
Sinha refers to a researcher who has previously evaluated the individual effects of the Medhya Rasayana drugs. Citing Sinha emphasizes the study's foundation on existing research, reinforcing the credibility of the investigations into the combined efficacy of these classical herbs in treating anxiety disorders.
22) Blood:
Blood measurements, including pulse rate and blood pressure, serve as physiological indicators of overall health. The study monitored these parameters to assess the Medhya Rasayana’s physiological effects, signifying a holistic approach to evaluating mental health and its connection to bodily states during treatment for anxiety neurosis.
23) Mental health:
Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting how individuals think, feel, and act. The study's focus on treating anxiety neurosis through Medhya Rasayana illustrates the importance of addressing mental health within a comprehensive framework, aiming for restoration and overall improvement in psychological resilience.
24) Cikitsasthana (Cikitsāsthāna, Cikitsa-sthana):
Cikitsa-sthana refers to the therapeutic aspect of Ayurveda, focusing on treatment methodologies for various health conditions. The study's reference to Cikitsa-sthana underscores the importance of structured treatment approaches in Ayurveda for addressing anxiety neurosis through Medhya Rasayana therapies, aligning with traditional healing practices.
25) Madhuyashti (Madhuyaṣṭi, Madhu-yashti, Madhuyaṣṭī):
Madhuyasti, or licorice root, is recognized for its therapeutic properties, especially in digestive health and as a mild laxative. Its inclusion in the study suggests its role in enhancing gastrointestinal function as a supportive treatment in anxiety neurosis, addressing common issues related to stress and dietary health in patients.
26) Discussion:
The discussion section of the study is vital for interpreting results, comparing findings with previous research, and drawing conclusions about the efficacy of Medhya Rasayana. This analysis provides valuable insights into the implications of the therapeutic outcomes observed in patients with anxiety neurosis, guiding future research efforts.
27) Virecana:
Virecana refers to therapeutic purgation in Ayurveda, widely recognized as beneficial for detoxifying the body. The study suggests that incorporating Virecana may enhance the effectiveness of Medhya Rasayana therapy, indicating that traditional Ayurvedic practices address holistic well-being through balance between mind and body in treating mental disorders.
28) Delusion (Deluded):
Delusion represents a belief held despite evidence to the contrary, often seen in severe psychological conditions like psychosis. The study excludes patients showing delusions to maintain focus on anxiety neurosis. Recognizing delusions is crucial for proper mental health evaluation and treatment plans, ensuring patients receive appropriate care.
29) Cikitsa (Cikitsā):
Cikitsa connotes the healing or treatment aspect within Ayurveda, essential for managing diseases holistically. The study aligns with Cikitsa principles through the application of Medhya Rasayana. It reinforces the significance of integrating traditional therapeutic interventions into clinical settings for treating various mental health concerns.
30) Sthana (Sthāna):
Sthana refers to the location or context within Ayurvedic texts. In this study, it implies the designated areas of focus, such as treatment protocols for anxiety neurosis within the broader Ayurvedic framework, emphasizing the structured approach in addressing mental health issues through Medhya Rasayana therapies.
31) Bitter:
Bitter denotes a taste associated with certain therapeutic herbs, including Guduci in the study. Bitterness is believed to have various health benefits, promoting digestion and detoxification. The incorporation of bitter herbs in Medhya Rasayana therapies underscores the significance of taste profiles in traditional Ayurvedic formulations.
32) Amrita (Amṛtā, Amṛta):
Amrta, or immortality, is often associated with herbs that possess rejuvenating properties in Ayurveda. While not the primary focus of the study, the reference to Amrta underlines its relevance in the context of Medhya Rasayana, emphasizing herbal remedies that achieve a balance between health, longevity, and mental wellness.
33) Water:
Water is essential for the proper preparation of herbal remedies, particularly in creating decoctions such as Kasaya. The study illustrates the process of boiling dry herbs in water to extract beneficial compounds, reinforcing the importance of water as a medium in delivering effective medicinal treatments in Ayurvedic practices.