A Review of Shirodhara in Alzheimer's Disease: Integrating Ayurvedic and Modern Perspectives

Shirodhara, an Ayurvedic therapy involving the continuous pouring of medicated liquids over the forehead, is recognized for its calming and neuroprotective effects. Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder, is characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral disturbances. Current treatments for AD are largely symptomatic and insufficient to reverse the disease progression. This article explores the mechanisms through which Shirodhara may alleviate AD symptoms by integrating Ayurvedic principles and modern biomedical insights. The therapy’s effects on stress reduction, neuroprotection, and cognitive enhancement are reviewed to establish its potential as an adjunctive therapy for AD.