Role of Shirodhara in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): An Ayurvedic Perspective with Special Reference to Manovaha Srotas

Dr.Hari Shanker Meghwal , Prof. Ram Kumar Bhamu , Dr. Piyushika Sharma

Autism spectrum disorder, Neurodevelopmental disorders, Shirodhara, Manovaha Srotas, Kaumarbhritya, Unmada.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition marked by impairments in communication, social interaction and behavior with conventional management often providing only partial relief. Ayurveda correlates ASD with Srotodusti of Manovaha Srotas, which occurs when an individual consumes vitiated food or exhibits disrespect toward God, teachers or intellectual persons. These factors lead to vitiation of the Doshas at the seat of intellect—Buddhi-Hridaya (brain) and the neural system. As a result, the individual may lose control over mind and body, become unable to make proper decisions, remain mentally unstable and experience impaired functioning of the Indriyas. The outcomes of such vitiation of Manovaha Srotas include Unmada, Apasmara and Atattvabhinivesha. Among these, Kapha-Vataja Unmada is particularly relevant due to its involvement of Manovaha Srotas. Shirodhara, a classical Ayurvedic therapy under Murdhni Taila, has shown potential in modulating these disturbances by pacifying Vata and balancing Kapha. Evidence suggests that it improves sleep quality, reduces anxiety, stabilizes mood, enhances attention and supports sensory integration in children with ASD. Modern studies further validate these effects, demonstrating that Shirodhara regulates the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, balances autonomic nervous system activity, lowers cortisol levels and influences brain wave patterns—thereby promoting relaxation and cognitive stability. Thus, Shirodhara emerges as a safe, non-invasive and holistic intervention for ASD, complementing behavioral and educational therapies, although large-scale clinical trials are still required to establish standardized protocols.

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"Role of Shirodhara in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): An Ayurvedic Perspective with Special Reference to Manovaha Srotas", IJSDR - International Journal of Scientific Development and Research (www.IJSDR.org), ISSN:2455-2631, Vol.11, Issue 1, page no.b598-b603, January-2026, Available :https://ijsdr.org/papers/IJSDR2601175.pdf

Volume 11 Issue 1, January-2026

Pages : b598-b603

Paper Reg. ID: IJSDR_306952

Published Paper Id: IJSDR2601175

Downloads: 000254

Research Area: Humanities All

Country: Nagaur, RAJASTHAN, India

Published Paper PDF: https://ijsdr.org/papers/IJSDR2601175

Published Paper URL: https://ijsdr.org/viewpaperforall?paper=IJSDR2601175

ISSN: 2455-2631 | IMPACT FACTOR: 9.15 Calculated By Google Scholar | ESTD YEAR: 2016

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