Ayurveda and Autism

Ayurveda and Autism

(Summary of WhatsApp discussion)

Ayurveda is the natural healing system of India that has it's origins from the Vedic culture.

The discussion provided us with the likelihood on how far ayurveda can help individuals with Autism.The discussion mainly derived knowledge on the bioactive compounds that can be of use to improve cognition,communication,to reduce sensory issues ,hyperactivity and aggression.

Parents discussed on the effectiveness of Curcumin (BCM 95) ,best bioavailabe compound to rebuild the immune system and the use of Virgin coconut oil (high lauric acid)for its anti-inflammatory,antipyretic and analgesic properties. Piperine is said to enhance the bioavailability of most herbs. Luteolin another anti inflammatory found in peppers is said to have Neuro protective function.Parents preferred Ajwain water to reduce bloating.

The potential of probiotics to maintain a healthy gut was much appreciated.But many suggested that a single strain probiotic specific to the child was tolerated well.So finding the right strain was by trial and error method.Many tried natural probiotics like Water kefir or Kombucha ,but observed either the child dint like it or were intolerant.As a prebiotic ,parents were happy to use Apple Cider Vinegar.

Parents agreed on food intolerances with *uzhunnu* and suggested alternatives as *moong dal* Suggestions came in for IgE and IgG testing to find further food intolerances.

Parents pointed out the advantages of using
Sarawathariahtam
Indukanthakashayam
Kalyanaka ghritam
and many more ...for its cognitive enhancing capacities.Doctors and parents implied on the necessity for strict diet restrictions when under ayurvedic treatment.

Some were concerned on the possibility for liver issues or lead toxicity when undergoing ayurvedic treatment ,that should definitely be checked with proposed tests from the physician.

Doctors suggested the use of *Triphala* and to avoid spicy foods to improve gut flora.Honey Gooseberry and "Pazhankanji" were proposed to help improve the gut microbiota. Ash gourd was suggested to improve the gut brain axis.

Dr Roshni Anirudhan found a corelation between the levels of serotonin and ASD kids. According to her there were an increased levels of serotonin in 35% of kids and lower levels in 5%.But she noted that the results were not directly linked with the severity of the disorder.

Herbs like
Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi)
Centella asiatica
(Kudangal)
Glycyrrhiza glabra
(Yashtimadhu/Irattimadhuram)
Convolvulus pluricaulis
(Shankhupushpi)
Acorus calamus
(Vayambu)
helped to increase neuronal plasticity and improved cognitive and behavioural disorders by releasing  BDNF.

To reduce aggression,mood swings ,temper tantrums Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) was suggested the best since it did not directly impact the hormonal axis .

The discussion was augmented by notes on Prebiotics and Panchkarma.Many parents came forward to appreciate Ayurvedic  practises to help them not just with Autism but for general health as well.

The discussions were lead by
Dr Roshni Anirudhan
Dr Gideon Paul
Dr Hemalatha N Potti
Sanjay
Devyna Lembard
Priti Vadakkath.

Thank you all.

(The discussion is in no way conclusive or decisive.Medicines should be taken only on prescription from a licenced medical practitioner)

http://medicalkerala.com/roshnianirudhan/kaumarabhrithya/detai1s-doctor/trivandrum/department-of-kaumarabhrithya

https://youtu.be/OPd5P4NLaPc

https://ayurvedicscience.com/articles/ayurvedic-practice-for-assisting-patients-of-autism/

https://doctornishal.com/2016/06/20/regrow-brain-cells/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19789214

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19501822

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23796876

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/24497737/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/24330893/

https://lifespa.com/benefits-differences-brahmi-gotu-kola-bacopa/

https://googleweblight.com/i?u=https://ayurvedicscience.com/articles/ayurvedic-practice-for-assisting-patients-of-autism/&hl=en-IN

#Asd parents and Therapists Group,Kerala