Study on the Efficacy of Yashtimadhu Siddha Taila Shiroabhyanga on Mentally Stressed Individuals: An Ayurvedic Clinical Evaluation

Background: Mental stress has become increasingly prevalent in modern society, affecting psychological well-being and sleep quality. Ayurveda emphasizes Shiroabhyanga (therapeutic head massage with medicated oil) as an important daily regimen (Dinacharya) for maintaining mental health. Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.), described as a Medhya Rasayana, is known for its neuroprotective, adaptogenic, and anxiolytic properties. Objective: To reduction in Assessment scale; International stress management association (ISMA), Perceived stress scale (PSS) and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI). Methods: A single-arm, open-label clinical study was conducted at Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune, involving 32 participants experiencing mental stress. Participants were instructed to perform daily self-administered Shiroabhyanga with Yashtimadhu Siddha Taila for 21 consecutive days. Assessments were performed at baseline, day 0 and day 21st, and post treatment follow up on day 30th using Assessment scales: ISMA, PSS and PSQI. Results: Significant improvement was observed in all assessment scales following 30 days of intervention. The ISMA score showed a reduction of 45.25%, the PSS score decreased by 58.90%, and the PSQI score improved by 42.85%. No adverse effects were observed during the study period. Conclusion: Yashtimadhu Siddha Taila Shiroabhyanga appears to be a safe and effective Ayurvedic intervention for reducing mild to moderate mental stress and improving sleep quality. These findings support the classical Ayurvedic concept of Shiroabhyanga in promoting psychosomatic health and highlight the potential role of Yashtimadhu as a Medhya Rasayana. Further randomized controlled studies with larger sample sizes are recommended.