Autism And Ayurveda

Autism merely a word for normal people, is a bundle of symptoms for doctors and yet its mere pronunciation creates a pain in the hearts of the parents whose children are suffering from the disease. A question always remains in mind “what will happen to my child after my death?” This disease which was almost unknown a decade ago is now rapidly growing among children. I as an ‘Ayurvedic Physician’ might not have learnt so much about the disease, if a child close to my heart does not suffer from this disease. The journey started eight years back when the child was diagnosed with ‘Autism’. A new chapter of sufferings of child as well as his parents was opened.

Autism is a disease in which the brain does not develop normally. It is also called autism spectrum disorder. Different types of symptoms appear in different individuals. Some children are severely affected sometimes with disabilities and epilepsy. Although some are hyperactive and restless, some are very quiet and do not express themselves. Some are slow learners and some are mildly affected. It is observed that the children who are mildly affected from the disease improve a lot from the therapies. But children who are severely ill demand a great care. They learn very little and with lot of effort. To care for these children is an energy draining process.

Why are these children so restless? Many theories are applied and researchers try to understand the working of brain. But what I have understood is that these children are in continuous pain present somewhere in their bodies.

Now how to control or treat this situation Ayurvedically? Ayurveda is divided into eight parts and the treatment of any type related to brain or psychology is defined under ‘Bhoota- Vidya’. There are many medicines described which can treat this condition. The main doshas which are disturbed are “Vata” and “pitta”. Vata dosha is greatly disturbed in this disease and it also aggravates pitta dosha. The child remains restless and there is always a pain present somewhere in the body. The typical symptom of tiptoe walking and muscle wasting can easily be treated by daily massage of Mahanarayan Taila. This is oil specially formulated to control Vata dosha aggravation in the muscles. The gastric disturbances of mild type can be overcome with some digestive Ayurvedic formulation like Pudina Hara. The weak immune system of these children creates many complications. There are many Ayurvedic medicines which can boost the immune system of these children.
Although there is an endless list of symptoms as well as indications in children suffering from the disorder of Autism, yet it must be understood that during medication they demand great care. A regular monitoring can improve the condition manifold.