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MANOVIKARA (Mental disorders) IN AYURVEDA

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Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: MANOVIKARA (Mental disorders) IN AYURVEDA
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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Author:

M.G. Ramu, B.S. Venkataram


Ancient Science of Life:

(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)

Full text available for: MANOVIKARA (Mental disorders) IN AYURVEDA

Year: 1985

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

This article discusses "Manovikara" or mental disorders in Ayurveda, exploring the ancient Indian system’s views on mental health, its definitions, classifications, and treatment methodologies. Recognizing the intricate relationship between the mind (manas) and body (sarira), the authors elucidate how Ayurveda has systematically addressed the management of mental illnesses since ancient times. Historical references, such as those from Caraka, underline the need for specialized knowledge in treating mental disorders. Despite limited exclusive Ayurvedic literature on mental disorders, existing texts provide significant insights for understanding and managing these conditions.

The Role of Psychosomatics in Ayurveda

Ayurveda emphasizes the interconnectedness of the psyche and the body, recognizing that mental states can directly influence physiological functions. The ancient texts highlight that emotional disturbances like anger and fear can affect bodily functions, demonstrating early concepts of psychosomatics. For instance, disturbances in the mind can lead to various physical symptoms, while physiological ailments can also have psychological components. The classification of mental disorders in Ayurveda includes three main categories: manasavikara (purely mental disorders), nanatmaja (those caused by other bodily doshas), and ubhayatmaka (conditions affecting both body and mind). This classification allows practitioners to assess the holistic nature of ailments and treat them accordingly, reiterating Ayurveda’s integrated approach to health.

Conclusion

The comprehensive understanding of manovikara in Ayurveda offers invaluable perspectives not only for treatment but also for the prevention of mental disorders. By emphasizing lifestyle choices, emotional well-being, and a balanced diet, Ayurveda advocates for a proactive approach to mental health. Adopting these principles can help address modern mental health challenges effectively. By grounding treatment methods in ancient wisdom while adapting them to contemporary needs, Ayurveda continues to contribute to mental health practices, highlighting the importance of maintaining equilibrium within the body and mind for overall well-being.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the Ayurvedic understanding of mental disorders?

In Ayurveda, mental disorders are classified as manovikara, recognized as arising from disturbances in the mind (manas) and its qualities, influenced by emotional disturbances, volitional transgression, and unwholesome food. Mental and physical health are seen as interdependent in treatment.

How does Ayurveda classify mental disorders?

Ayurvedic texts classify mental disorders into three categories: manasavikara (purely mental disorders), ubhayatmaka vikara (disorders affecting both mind and body), and nanatmaja manasavikara (those specifically caused by disturbances in mentality). Each category entails different symptoms and treatments.

What treatment methods does Ayurveda suggest for mental disorders?

Ayurveda uses three main therapeutic approaches: daivavyapasraya (spiritual therapies), yuktivyapasraya (logical therapies involving diet and drugs), and satvavajaya (psychotherapy). These methods are tailored to the individual’s mental state and cultural background for effective treatment.

What preventive measures are recommended for mental health in Ayurveda?

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of daily regimens (dinacharya), seasonal regimens (ritucharya), and avoidance of negative impulses like greed and anger. Adopting a socio-moral value system aids in promoting mental health and preventing mental disorders.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “MANOVIKARA (Mental disorders) IN AYURVEDA�. 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) Mana (MÄṇa, MÄna, Maṉa, MaṉÄ�, MÄṉa, MÄṉÄ�):
Mana refers to the concept of mental or psychological aspects in Ayurveda. It encompasses thoughts, emotions, and cognition, highlighting the relationship between the mind and health. In Ayurvedic philosophy, mana plays a critical role in maintaining mental balance and overall well-being.

2) Manas (Mano, Manash, MÄṇo):
Manas is often synonymous with mind or psyche in Ayurveda. It denotes the mental state that influences emotions, thoughts, and perception. The state of manas significantly impacts physical health, as Ayurveda emphasizes the interconnectedness of body and mind.

3) Mental disorder:
Mental disorder in Ayurveda, termed 'manovikara', refers to a variety of psychological issues that disrupt normal mental functioning. Ayurveda classifies these disorders based on their etiology, symptoms, and impact on both mind and body, focusing on holistic treatment approaches.

4) Ayurveda (Ä€yurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine rooted in the concepts of balance, wellness, and prevention. It employs a holistic approach, addressing the interdependence of mind, body, and spirit. Ayurvedic practices aim to promote health and manage diseases through natural therapies.

5) Vikara (VikÄra, VikÄrÄ):
Vikara translates to 'disorder' or 'deviation' in Ayurveda. It is used to describe the various illnesses or abnormalities in mental and physical health. Vikara encompasses both mental disorders (manasavikara) and physical ailments (sarirvika), emphasizing the need for comprehensive treatment.

6) Fear:
Fear, referred to as 'bhaya' in Ayurveda, is an emotional response that can lead to physiological disturbances. It affects the state of samana vayu, disrupting mental and bodily functions. Managing fear ayurvedically includes understanding its causes and restoring mental balance.

7) Grief:
Grief, termed 'soka', is a profound emotional response associated with loss or sadness. In Ayurveda, persistent grief can lead to imbalances in mental health, contributing to disorders. Ayurveda recommends measures to process grief and restore emotional stability.

8) Desire:
Desire, known as 'kama', plays a fundamental role in Ayurveda and is seen as both a motivating force and a source of imbalance. Excessive desire can lead to mental disorders; therefore, moderation is advised to cultivate a balanced mental state.

9) Caraka (CÄraka, CÄrÄka):
Caraka was a celebrated ancient Ayurvedic physician whose literature greatly influences Ayurvedic practices today. He wrote extensively on health, diseases, and treatments, focusing on the connection between mind and body, particularly in the context of mental disorders.

10) Anger (Angry):
Anger, referred to as 'krodha', is a powerful emotion in Ayurveda. It is considered one of the primary causes of mental disorders and physical ailments. Ayurveda emphasizes understanding and managing anger to prevent its detrimental effects on health.

11) Tama (TÄma, TÄmÄ):
Tama is one of the three gunas (qualities) in Ayurveda representing darkness, inertia, and lethargy. Excessive tama can lead to mental and physical stagnation, contributing to disorders. Ayurveda encourages practices that enhance clarity and energy to counteract tamasic influences.

12) Mental health:
Mental health in Ayurveda encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Good mental health is essential for overall wellness and is maintained through balancing the mind's influences, healthy lifestyle choices, and effective coping strategies.

13) Rajas:
Rajas is one of the three gunas indicating activity, passion, and movement. While it plays a crucial role in motivation and action, excessive rajas can lead to agitation and disturbances in mind-body balance, necessitating regulation for mental health.

14) Raja (RÄja, RÄjÄ):
Raja refers to the quality associated with activity and dynamism in Ayurveda. It is important for mental and physical engagement; however, unchecked raja leads to disturbance and must be balanced with satva for optimal health.

15) Shoka (Åšoka, Soka, ÅšokÄ):
Soka, or grief, is an emotional state in Ayurveda often associated with loss. Chronic soka can contribute to mental disorders, impacting physical health. Ayurvedic strategies aim to address grief through emotional support and therapeutic practices.

16) Atman (Ä€tman, Ä€tma, Atma, Ä€tmÄ):
Atma, or soul, occupies a central place in Ayurvedic philosophy, representing the essence of consciousness. It is viewed as distinct yet interrelated with manas (mind) and sarira (body), emphasizing the broader context of mental health.

17) Meat:
Meat consumption in Ayurveda is viewed with caution, as it can influence mental and physical health. Specific meats are recommended based on their nourishing properties, but moderation and individual constitution are critical in dietary prescriptions.

18) Apasmara (ApasmÄra):
Apasmara is an Ayurvedic term for epilepsy and involves disturbances affecting consciousness and mental faculties. It is categorized as ubhayatmaka vikara, requiring a targeted Ayurvedic approach for treatment focused on restoring balance.

19) Activity:
Activity in Ayurveda is vital for maintaining both physical and mental health. This includes physical exercise and mental engagement that contribute to overall well-being. Balancing activity levels is crucial in preventing mental disorders.

20) Atisara (AtisÄra, AtÄ«sÄra):
Atisara, or severe diarrhea, can be influenced by emotional factors in Ayurveda. It is recognized as ubhayatmaka vikara, where addressing both the physical symptoms and underlying emotional causes is essential in treatment.

21) Sharira (ÅšarÄ«ra, SarÄ«ra, Sarira, ÅšÄrÄ«ra):
Sarira translates to 'body' in Ayurveda. It encompasses physical health and is intricately linked to mental states. Proper care of sarira is crucial for maintaining mental balance and overall health according to Ayurvedic principles.

22) Tamas (TamÄá¹�, TÄmÄá¹�):
Tamas, one of the three gunas, embodies qualities of inertia and lethargy. Excessive tamas can contribute to mental stagnation and disorders. Ayurvedic practices aim to cultivate balance by promoting rajas and satva.

23) Kama (KÄmÄ, KÄma, KamÄ):
Kama signifies desire or passion in Ayurveda. While it can be a motivating force for creativity and energy, excessive kama may lead to imbalances and mental health issues. Managing desire is essential for well-being.

24) Shila (ÅšilÄ, SilÄ, SÄ«la, Åšila, Śīla, SÄ«lÄ):
Sila means habits or temperament in Ayurveda. It reflects behavioral patterns that influence mental health. Understanding and modifying sila can aid in preventing and managing mental disorders through holistic practices.

25) Perception:
Perception in Ayurveda is the process by which sensory experiences are interpreted by the mind. It is fundamental for understanding sensory stimuli and their impact on mental states, emphasizing the need for mental clarity and balance.

26) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to awareness and understanding in Ayurveda. Gaining knowledge is crucial for self-awareness and making informed decisions regarding health, especially mental health, and is considered integral to overall well-being.

27) Psychosis:
Psychosis, or unmade in Ayurveda, describes severe mental disorders involving loss of contact with reality. Ayurveda approaches treatment holistically, focusing on restoring balance through natural therapies and addressing underlying emotional factors.

28) Jealousy:
Jealousy, known as 'irshya' in Ayurveda, is an emotion that can lead to mental disturbance if not managed. Recognizing and addressing feelings of jealousy is vital for maintaining emotional equilibrium and preventing psychological issues.

29) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the systematic study and understanding of phenomena. In Ayurveda, integrating scientific methods enhances the validation of traditional practices in preventing and treating health disorders, including psychological conditions.

30) Brahmi (BrÄhmÄ«):
Brahmi (Centella asiatica) is an Ayurvedic herb renowned for its cognitive and mental health benefits. It is used as a restorative herb to improve memory and reduce anxiety, highlighting the therapeutic potential of natural remedies.

31) Visada (Viá¹£Äda, VisÄda, VisÄda, ViÅ›ada, Vishada, Viá¹£ada, Visha-da):
Visada refers to deep anguish or sorrow in Ayurveda. It is recognized as an emotional state that can negatively affect mental and physical health, requiring awareness and intervention to restore balance.

32) Krodha (KrodhÄ):
Krodha signifies anger in Ayurveda, often regarded as a source of mental disturbance. Managing krodha is critical, as it can influence emotional and physical well-being, emphasizing calming practices and emotional regulation.

33) Pitta (PÄ«tta, Piá¹­á¹­Ä):
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing heat, metabolism, and transformation. An imbalance of pitta can lead to irritability and anger, significantly impacting mental health and requiring careful management through dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

34) Kapha:
Kapha is the dosha associated with structure, stability, and nourishment. While it is essential for physical health, an excessive kapha can lead to lethargy and depression, making balance with the other doshas vital for mental wellness.

35) Dosha (Dosa, Doá¹£a, DosÄ, Doá¹£Ä�, ḌosÄ):
Dosha refers to the three primary energies in Ayurveda (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that dictate physiological and psychological functions. Each dosha impacts health, and their balance is crucial for preventing and treating mental and physical disorders.

36) Vata (VÄá¹­a, Vaá¹­a, VÄta, Vaá¹­Ä�):
Vata is one of the three doshas, embodying movement and energy. Imbalances in vata can lead to anxiety and restlessness. Ayurvedic practices aim to stabilize vata for better mental and physical health.

37) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana, RasÄyana, RÄsÄyana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenation therapies in Ayurveda aimed at promoting health and longevity. These therapies are believed to enhance mental clarity and vitality, reinforcing the holistic nature of Ayurvedic treatment approaches.

38) Medicine:
Medicine in Ayurveda encompasses a variety of natural treatments, including herbs, diet, and lifestyle adjustments. Ayurvedic medicine aims at holistic healing by addressing both the mind and body to restore balance and health.

39) Pariksha (Parīkṣ�, Parikṣ�):
Pariksha refers to examination or assessment methods in Ayurveda. It is critical for evaluating health conditions, including mental disorders, allowing practitioners to tailor treatments effectively.

40) Anguish:
Anguish refers to intense emotional suffering. In Ayurveda, it is recognized as a significant contributor to mental disorders, necessitating empathetic understanding and effective treatment strategies to alleviate emotional pain.

41) Anxiety:
Anxiety, or 'udvega' in Ayurveda, is characterized by excessive worry or fear. It can disrupt mental equilibrium and bodily functions, requiring integrative approaches to manage this state for improved mental health.

42) Unmada (UnmÄda, UnmadÄ):
Unmada denotes a state of mental derangement in Ayurveda. It represents serious disturbances that affect cognition and behavior, necessitating comprehensive treatment tailored to restore mental and emotional balance.

43) Bhaya (BhayÄ):
Bhaya, or fear, is an emotional response that can lead to stress and mental instability. Ayurveda emphasizes addressing bhaya to restore mental health through therapeutic and lifestyle interventions that foster resilience.

44) Taila (TailÄ):
Taila, or oil, is significant in Ayurveda for its nourishing and soothing qualities. It is used in various treatments for physical and mental health, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition and self-care.

45) Ahara (Ä€hÄra, Ä€hara):
Ahara refers to diet or food intake in Ayurveda, playing a crucial role in maintaining health. Proper ahara is essential for balanced doshas, influencing both physical and mental states for overall well-being.

46) Acara (Ä€cÄra, AcÄrÄ, Ä€caṟa):
Acara implies conduct or behavior in Ayurveda, reflecting how lifestyle choices affect mental health. Following wholesome practices (acara) is crucial for maintaining mental and physical balance.

47) Ceshta (CeṣṭÄ, Ceṣṭa):
Cesta signifies movement or activity, representing both physical and mental motions. In Ayurveda, maintaining appropriate levels of c esta supports health, while excess or lack of activity can lead to imbalances affecting mental well-being.

48) Shiras (Åširas, Siro, Shirash):
Siras refers to the head in Ayurveda, regarded as a significant center for mental functions. Understanding the role of siras is essential for comprehending how mental health is influenced by physical conditions.

49) Moha (MohÄ):
Moha denotes confusion or delusion in Ayurveda, often leading to poor decision-making and mental disturbances. Managing moha is vital for achieving clarity and emotional stability.

50) Sira (SÄ«ra, SirÄ, Åšira, Shira):
Sira is another term for head, signifying the sensory and cognitive centers in Ayurveda. It plays an important role in emotional well-being, linking physical health with mental acuity.

51) Vayu (VÄyu):
Vayu represents the air element and one of the three doshas in Ayurveda. It is crucial for movement and communication within the body. Vayu's balance is essential for mental clarity and stability.

52) Milk:
Milk, or 'ksira', is considered a nourishing food in Ayurveda, beneficial for mental and physical health. It is often recommended for its calming properties and ability to strengthen reproductive and neurological functions.

53) Drug:
Drugs in Ayurveda encompass herbal medicines and formulations aimed at restoring balance in the body and mind. Ayurvedic drugs are used for therapeutic purposes, targeting specific dosha imbalances to promote health.

54) Daivavyapashraya (DaivavyapÄÅ›raya):
Daivavyapasraya refers to divine or spiritual therapy in Ayurveda. This includes practices such as prayer and offerings that invoke spiritual healing, particularly beneficial for mental health issues with a psychological or emotional basis.

55) Yuktivyapashraya (YuktivyapÄÅ›raya):
Yuktivyapasraya denotes logical therapy in Ayurveda, involving the use of diet and herbal remedies. This approach relies on empirical understanding to restore dosha balance and enhance mental and physical health.

56) Madatyaya (MadÄtyaya, Mada-atyaya):
Madatyaya refers to alcoholic psychosis in Ayurveda, a severe mental disturbance linked to excessive consumption of intoxicants. Tailored therapeutic approaches are employed to manage this condition and restore mental well-being.

57) Tridosha (Tridoá¹£a, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha refers collectively to the three primary bodily energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurveda. The tridosha concept signifies that the balance among these elements is fundamental for maintaining health and preventing diseases, including mental disorders.

58) Shodhana (Åšodhana, Sodhana):
Sodhana represents purification processes in Ayurveda aimed at detoxifying the body and mind. This cleansing is essential for treating imbalances and promoting overall wellness.

59) Sadvritta (Sadvá¹›tta, Sat-vritta):
Sadvrtta refers to a code of virtuous conduct in Ayurveda. Adhering to sadvrtta promotes ethical behavior and emotional stability, significantly influencing mental health and well-being.

60) Neurosis:
Neurosis in Ayurveda corresponds to various mental disorders affecting emotional stability. Ayurvedic approaches focus on understanding and addressing the root causes of neurosis to restore mental balance and promote healing.

61) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy, termed 'apasmara' in Ayurveda, is characterized by seizures and altered consciousness. Treatment focuses on restoring dosha balance and addressing underlying psychological factors to manage symptoms effectively.

62) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriya refers to the sensory organs in Ayurveda, which play a significant role in perception and mental processes. Healthy functioning of indriya is vital for maintaining mental clarity and emotional balance.

63) Bhakti (Bhaktī):
Bhakti denotes devotion or emotional attachment in Ayurveda. It encompasses feelings that can enrich mental health or lead to suffering, depending on the nature of the attachment, highlighting the complex relationship between emotion and well-being.

64) Dainya:
Dainya refers to feelings of inferiority or shame. In Ayurveda, it can adversely affect mental health and requires recognition and treatment strategies aimed at restoring self-esteem and emotional stability.

65) Udvega:
Udvega translates to anxiety or agitation. It is a mental state associated with excessive worry that can affect physical health; Ayurvedic strategies focus on calming techniques to alleviate udvega and restore balance.

66) Reason:
Reason denotes cognitive processes in Ayurveda, representing logical and analytical thinking. Understanding the role of reason in decision-making is crucial for mental health, guiding individuals towards balanced lifestyles.

67) Harsha (Hará¹£Ä�, Hará¹£a, HarsÄ):
Harsa signifies joy or exhilaration. In Ayurveda, a balanced emotional state involves managing both highs (harsa) and lows (soka), promoting emotional well-being and resilience.

68) Smriti (Smá¹›ti):
Smriti refers to the ability to remember or retain information, essential for learning and cognitive function. In Ayurveda, promoting smriti supports mental acuity and emotional stability.

69) Ghrita (Ghá¹›ta):
Ghrita, or ghee, is valued in Ayurveda for its nourishing properties. It is used therapeutically to enhance digestion, strengthen mental faculties, and balance doshas.

70) Bhaga (BhÄga, BhÄgÄ):
Bhaga signifies sharing or distribution, reflecting the balance of resources or emotions. In Ayurveda, promoting bhaga can enhance community well-being and support individual mental health through social connections.

71) Greed:
Greed, or 'lobha', is viewed as a harmful emotional state in Ayurveda that leads to disharmony and mental imbalance. Reevaluating desires and promoting contentment are essential for mental health.

72) Blood:
Blood in Ayurveda is viewed as a vital fluid that sustains life and mental function. Its health corresponds to various bodily processes, influencing both physical and mental states.

73) Rasa (RasÄ, Rasha):
Rasa refers to taste or essence in Ayurveda, playing a role in dietary choices that impact physical and mental health. Proper consideration of rasa supports balanced nutrition and well-being.

74) Mada (MÄá¸a, MÄda, Maá¸Ä�):
Mada denotes intoxication, particularly through alcohol or drugs, influencing behavior and mental health. Ayurveda stresses the importance of moderation to maintain mental clarity and balance.

75) Lust:
Lust, or intense desire, is a powerful emotion in Ayurveda considered a catalyst for imbalance if uncontrolled. Managing lust is crucial for maintaining mental and emotional health.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 170]

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Satvavajaya Chikitsa, Daivavyapasraya chikitsa, Yuktivyapasraya chikitsa, Manovikara in Ayurveda, Psychosomatics in Ayurveda.

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