Ayurvedic management of vishada

Depression is both a state of emotion (manasika bhava) as well as a disease (manasika vyadhi). It can be correlate the clinical condition with vishada, avasada, manodhukhaja unmada and kaphaja unmada. Psychopathology of depression may even extend up to somatic level. As there are multiple correlations, understanding the pathology of depression by means of ayurvedic basic principles such as sharirika dosha (bodily humor), manasika dosha (attributes of psyche), satwa bala (strength of mind), jnanendriya (sense organs), karmendriya (motor organs), agni (biological fire), dhathu (tissues sustaining the body), srotos (channels or pathways of the body) and ojus (vital essence of life) is essential In Ayurvedic classics. 

Vishada and Avasada are the two mentioned conditions which have close resemblance with depression. Acharaya Charak quote “Vishado Rogavardhanam” i.e., it is the most foremost factor to worsen the condition of any disease. It comes under one of the eight Vataja nanatmaja vikaras which indicate that it cannot occur without the involvement of Vata dosha.Imbalance in the equilibrium of the mental and physical attributes, results in depletion of Dhriti (retaining power of mind), Smriti (hampered memory), Bhuddhi (hampered intellect) 

Thus, predisposing to occur any of psycho-somatic disorders as well mental illness such as Unmada (Insanity), Apasmar (Epilepsy). The pre­monitory symptoms of Unmada can be co-related with symptoms of depression as both are seen to be similar i.e., emptiness in thought, dysfunction of intellect and impairment of memory. In ayurvedic classics Vishad term is used which denotes Vak-kay-Chitta Avasad which means restricted or hypokinetic activities of speech, body and mind thus it can be correlated with depression

Mental examination revealed derangement of mana (mind), buddhi (intellect), smruti (memory), bhakti (desire), sheela (temperament), chesta (psychomotor activity) and achara (conduct) components

Ayurveda approaches the management of depression by addressing the root causes and imbalances in the individual's constitution. The treatment aims to restore balance to the doshas, strengthen the body and mind, and promote overall well-being. Here are some common Ayurvedic approaches to managing depression:

1. Lifestyle and Routine: Establishing a daily routine (dinacharya) is emphasized in Ayurveda to promote stability and balance. This includes waking up and going to bed at consistent times, eating nourishing meals at regular intervals, and incorporating self-care practices such as oil massage (abhyanga), yoga, and meditation.

2. Dietary Considerations: Ayurveda suggests following a balanced diet that includes fresh, whole foods. Foods that are considered sattvic (pure and harmonious) are recommended, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and dairy products. It is also advised to minimize or avoid stimulants like caffeine and processed, greasy, or heavy foods that can increase imbalances in the doshas.

3. Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic herbs and formulations are often used to support mental well-being and balance the doshas. Some commonly used herbs for depression include Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Jatamansi, Shankhpushpi, and Guduchi. These herbs can be consumed in the form of herbal teas, powders, or as part of Ayurvedic formulations prescribed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.

4. Panchakarma: Panchakarma is a detoxification and rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda. It involves a series of cleansing procedures that aim to eliminate toxins (ama) from the body and restore balance. Panchakarma treatments like Vamana,Nasya, Abhyanga, Shirodhara, and Bathi may be recommended to address imbalances associated with depression.

5. Yoga and Meditation: Ayurveda and yoga are closely intertwined practices. Incorporating gentle yoga asanas , pranayama  and meditation can be beneficial for managing depression. These practices help calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.