Role of Shirodhara Karma in the Management of Anidra (Insomnia): A Case Report

Anidra in Ayurveda can be recognised both as a symptom as well as a disorder. Anidra occurs due to the imbalance of Vata and Pitta dosha. This case highlights the management of a 48-year-old male patient suffering from chronic insomnia along with symptoms like vertigo, nausea and irregular bowel movement who did not respond to conventional treatment like benzodiazepines, antidepressants and antihistamines. A treatment plan was curated for this case, including Shirodhara with Jatamansi Sidhha Taila for a continuous period of 14 days. It is a medicated oil known for its calming and sleep-inducing properties. The procedure involves continuously pouring warm oil on the forehead (Sthapani Marma) after performing a whole-body Abhyanga and Swedana. Posttreatment assessments of the patients show significant improvement in sleep quality and duration, as evidenced by a reduction in the insomnia severity index scale from 23 (State of severe insomnia) to 7 (State of no clinically significant insomnia) after a 28-day follow-up. The associated symptoms, which seemed to be associated with the improper sleep cycle, were also resolved with no side effects. This case study shows promising results of the Jatamansi Sidhha Taila Shirodhara as an effective alternative therapy for Anidra, especially in cases resistant to conventional management. Further clinical studies are needed to validate these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms.