Can Ayurveda Cure Major Depression?
Admin 11 May 2022
Depression is the most common mood disorder in the world and the number one cause of disability. Ayurveda Treatment for depression usually focuses on medication and psychotherapy. Ayurvedic medicine is an alternative form of treatment that has been shown to be effective for many types of mental illnesses including depression.
What is the Ayurvedic Medicine for Depression?
The Ayurvedic medicine for depression is a holistic approach to treatment that involves the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda is a 5,000-year-old system of medicine from India that takes a natural approach to heal. The goal of Ayurveda is to promote balance in the body and mind, which leads to overall health and wellbeing.
Ayurvedic practitioners believe that mental illness is best treated by addressing the root cause of the imbalance. In most cases, this will require a long-term commitment to lifestyle changes. However, some people may find relief from their symptoms after just a few weeks or months of treatment
There are many different Ayurvedic medicines for depression, but some common treatments include yoga, meditation, and massage. Ayurvedic medicine is not a quick fix, but rather a long-term approach to managing depression. If you're looking for a natural way to treat your depression, Ayurveda may be worth considering.
Dosha Imbalance and Depression
Ayurvedais based on the belief that all diseases are caused by imbalances in the three doshas, or energies, of the body. Ayurveda practitioners believe that mental illness is caused by an imbalance of the Pitta dosha.
Pitta imbalances are said to cause feelings of anger, hatred, and jealousy. Ayurvedic treatment for mental illness focuses on restoring balance to the Pitta dosha. This may be done through dietary changes, yoga, meditation, and massage.
There are three subtly different types of depression corresponding to the three dosha constituting our physiology. Vata is the primary dosha associated with depression because it governs mental activity and nervous system function. Pitta, which governs digestion and metabolism, shares a secondary role in depression as well. Kapha, which controls water balance and lubrication, is also implicated in certain types of mood disturbance especially depressive episodes associated with weight gain.
1) vata type depression associated with rapid breathing, restless sleep, and morning fatigue 2) pitta type depression associated with anger and irritability and sometimes a tendency toward hyperactivity 3) kapha type depression associated with mild symptoms such as heaviness in the head and body, lack of sexual interest, sluggish digestion, increased sleep.
Herbs that Help Cure Depression
Following are some Ayurvedic herbs that help boost brain function and cure depression.
Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha, an adaptogen herb that is popularly known to be "Indian Ginseng", has been shown in studies to have a positive effect on mental health, supporting possible relief of stress, anxiety and depression. In one study, participants reported a 77% reduction in symptoms of depression after 60 days of taking 600 mg of Ashwagandha extract per day.
Brahmi: Rich in adaptogenic properties, brahmi is known to support the proper functioning of the nervous system and help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Brahmi can also improve your memory, increase your ability to receive inspiration and serve as a calming agent.
Medical cannabis: The medical benefits of cannabis are numerous, but one of the most important is its ability to reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Many people have found medical marijuana to be a good cure for depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. If you are interested in trying out medical cannabis for your depression but don't know where to start contact a certified medical cannabis practitioner.
While there is no cure for depression, Ayurveda can help to alleviate the symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Considering Ayurveda treatment for depression? Consult with an experienced practitioner who can tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs.