FUNCTIONAL CHANGES IN HUMAN BRAIN IN ANXIETY DISORDERS: A REVIEW

Anxiety disorders rank among the most prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide. Ayurveda approaches mental disorders through functional concepts such as being imbalanced Dosha or malfunctioning of the Manovaha Srotas. The aggravation of Vata demonstrates considerable similarity to autonomic dysfunction and heart rate variability. Extraordinary prevalence of Rajas and Tamas can be linked to heightened catecholaminergic activity and reduced activity of the prefrontal cortex. Ojas deficiency can be equated to fluctuations of neurotrophic factors and processes of regulation of cortisol, while Ama accumulation can be likened to increased production of inflammatory mediators. Functioning of the Manovaha Srotas can also be compared to high activity of the amygdala and impaired prefrontal amygdala connection. This review article described functional changes in human brain during the anxiety disorders.