Ayurvedic Treatment for bipolar disorder: Supportive Care Alongside Psychiatric Treatment

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What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, otherwise called manic depression, is a condition of the mind that involves abnormal mood swings. Periods can range from extreme highs, also known as mania, to deep lows or depressions.  

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

The causes of bipolar disorder are unknown. However, medical practitioners believe that genetic, biological, and environmental factors may be combined for this disorder. Some of these include:

• Genetics: Family history of Bipolar disorder or any mental health disorder
• Chemistry of the Brain: Neurotransmitter imbalance; these are chemicals that carry messages between brain cells
• Life Events: Stressful events may worsen symptoms or trigger episodes
• Substance Abuse: Alcoholism and substance abuse will exacerbate symptoms of Bipolar disorder

In Ayurveda, bipolar disorder is linked mainly with aggravated Vata, which governs the nervous system and mind, along with reduced Ojas (vital strength).

Jiva Ayunique™ Treatment Philosophy - A Holistic Approach to Bipolar Disorder

Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of bipolar disorder by combining ancient Ayurvedic knowledge and the latest advances in modern medicine to achieve the desired results. The treatment plans are tailored to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance, and stability in totality.

SAFETY NOTE 
Ayurvedic care is supportive only. Never stop or change mood stabilisers or psychiatric medicines without your psychiatrist. If you or someone you know has thoughts of self-harm, seek emergency help immediately.

Symptoms

Ayurvedic Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Personalised Ayurvedic Medicines

Personalised herbal prescriptions to restore the doshas and normalise the mood.

Yoga, Meditation & Mind-Wellbeing

Soothing practices that help to induce relaxation and emotional wellness.

Ayurvedic Therapies

Panchakarma, massages, and other therapies to cleanse the body of toxins and stabilise the psycho-emotional centres.

• Panchakarma ('five actions') is a set of cleansing therapies that aim to remove ama (toxins) and calm the body and mind. In mood disorders, the gentler procedures are usually chosen and always planned by a doctor:
  Nasya: A light head and shoulder massage followed by medicated oil drops in both nostrils, traditionally used to calm the mind and support sleep.
  Shirodhara and Abhyanga: Warm oil therapies used to pacify Vata and ease anxiety.

Nutritional and Lifestyle Modifications

Expert consultation with suggested changes in diet and lifestyle for optimal results.

• To support Ojas: Dates, soaked almonds, ghee, fresh fruits and vegetables.
  Avoid recreational drugs, alcohol, caffeine, and cigarettes – they over-stimulate the brain and can trigger episodes.
  Keep fixed sleep and meal times; irregular sleep is a common trigger for mania.
  A daily gratitude or journaling habit can help track moods.

Ayurvedic Medicines for Bipolar Disorder

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): This is an adaptogen that helps relieve stress.
  
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): It acts as a brain tonic, particularly in making a person calm and enhancing brain power.
  
• Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): It is an herb that rejuvenates the nervous system and calms anxiety.
  
• Vacha (Acorus calamus): This is a powerful antidepressant herb used for mood regulation and for maintaining a healthy digestive system.