Article: AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF REACTIVE DEPRESSION TRIGGERED BY PREGNANCY LOSS: A CASE REPORT

Article Category: Case Reports

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.165163

Pages: 25-29

Author: Sonali D. Konkeri, Pankaj Sharma, Aswini Ramachandran *

Abstract: Background: Reactive depression is characterised as an adjustment disorder or an acute stress-related disorder, diagnosed based on DSM-5 criteria. In the context of Ayurveda, such conditions are classified as Manodukhaja Unmada, which represents Manas affliction, indicating a mental illness induced by external factors. Clinical Findings: A 33-year-old female, with no prior psychiatric history, presented with symptoms of persistent sadness, frequent crying spells, disrupted sleep patterns, diminished interest in activities, and a heightened fear of miscarriage following a second abortion in 2022. According to Ayurvedic principles, she was diagnosed with Manodukkhaja Unmada, characterised by an imbalance of Kapha-Vata Dosha and Tamasika Prakriti. Interventions: The patient was managed using a combination of Shamana Aushadhi and Sattwavajaya Chikitsa (psychotherapy) over a period of three months. The internal medications included Guduchyadhi Kashaya, Chandraprabha Vati, Punarnavadi Kashaya, Sudarshana Vati, Gomutra Haritaki, Kalyanaka Ghrita, Sukumara Ghrita, Sahacharadi 21 Avartita Taila, and Manasamitravataka. In addition, Ashwashanam, Manoprasadana, and Manonigrahana were employed as part of the psychotherapy approach. Results: Progressive improvement was noted during follow-ups in the HDRS score, reduced from 18 to 8 and the ISI from 19 to 6. Symptoms such as sadness, insomnia, lack of interest and leucorrhoea also improved significantly. Conclusion: This case shows that a holistic Ayurvedic approach, utilising Shamana and Sattwavajaya therapies, can effectively manage Reactive Depression after pregnancy loss. Early diagnosis and integrated treatment played a crucial role in the patient's psychological and functional recovery.

Keyword: Ayurveda, Case Report, Manodukkhaja Unmada, Reactive Depression, Sattwavajaya chikitsa