Become A Member

Introduction: Anxiety disorders, classified under Chittodvega in Ayurveda, are among the most common psychiatric conditions globally, affecting nearly 300 million individuals. While modern medicine relies primarily on pharmacological agents such as benzodiazepines and SSRIs, their long-term use is limited by side effects and dependency risks. Ayurveda, through its holistic approach targeting mind, body, and spirit, offers preventive, promotive, and therapeutic strategies. Methods: A structured literature search was performed in Ayurvedic classics (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya), PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Studies from 2000–2024 were included if they focused on Ayurvedic interventions (herbs, Panchakarma, Rasayana, Yoga, and meditation) or modern correlates of anxiety management. Both clinical and preclinical studies were considered. Results: Ayurvedic texts describe Chittodvega as a Manas Roga caused by Rajo and Tamo guna vitiation, disturbances in Manovaha Srotas, and Prana Vata imbalance. Herbs such as Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), and Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) demonstrate anxiolytic, adaptogenic, and neuroprotective effects in modern studies. Panchakarma therapies like Shirodhara and Nasya, as well as Yoga and meditation, improve stress biomarkers and mental well-being. Evidence supports Ayurveda’s role in modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, neurotransmitter balance, and oxidative stress. Discussion: Ayurveda emphasizes root-cause correction through Satvavajaya Chikitsa (psychotherapy), Daivavyapashraya (spiritual healing), and Yuktivyapashraya (rational therapy), aligning with modern psychotherapeutic, pharmacological, and mindfulness approaches. However, the lack of large-scale randomized controlled trials limits universal acceptance. Conclusion: Ayurveda offers a promising integrative approach in anxiety disorders, combining herbal medicines, Panchakarma, and lifestyle interventions with modern psychiatric care. Future research should focus on standardization, mechanistic validation, and integrative clinical protocols.

KEYWORDS: Anxiety disorders, Ayurveda, Chittodvega, Panchakarma, Rasayana