Combined effect of Virechana and Rose Water Shirodhara on Hamilton’s Anxiety Scale

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common and disabling condition characterized by ongoing worry, anxiety, and tension about various daily concerns, persisting for at least six months.[1] The symptoms of GAD bear resemblance to Chittodwega, an excited state of mind described in the classical Ayurvedic text, the Charaka Samhita, under the category of Manovikara (mental disorders). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two Ayurvedic therapies - Virechana and Rose Water Shirodhara - in treating anxiety disorders. A 23-year-old female patient presented with symptoms of anxiety, including difficulty breathing, chest heaviness, stress, irritability, concentration issues, sleep deprivation, and constipation, which had persisted for a year. She underwent Panchakarma therapy, incorporating Udwarthana, Parisheka, Rose Water Shirodhara, and Virechana. The patient’s symptoms were assessed using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale before and after treatment. Results indicated a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms, suggesting that both Virechana and Rose Water Shirodhara were effective in alleviating the symptoms of anxiety. The findings support the use of these Ayurvedic treatments for managing anxiety.