AN AYURVEDIC AND MODERN APPROACH OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS AND ITS MANAGEMENT

Vd. Shivam Gupta*, Vd. Neha Anil Gupta and Dr. D. B. Chavan

ABSTRACT

Autism is a neuro-developmental disorder which is defined by deficits in social reciprocity and communication, and by unusual restricted, repetitive behaviors. It begins in early childhood and characterized by qualitative impairment in communication skills, social interactions and reciprocity, imagination and play. Latest global survey suggest that 1 per 68 children are being diagnosed with ASD. Autism Spectrum Disorders can be explained under the disease Unamada. In modern science different therapies available such as Cognitive behaviour therapy, Play therapy, Speech therapy, Holding therapy, Music therapy, Reiki treatment etc have been tried for longer periods to obtain substantial improvement in these children, but not satisfactory. Autism Spectrum Disorders can be explained under the disease Unamada. The majority of clinical features of different varieties of Autism Spectrum Disorders resemble features of Vatika and Kaphaja dominant Unamada. The interventions rationally employed based on the treatment principles of Unmada like purification therapies, various procedure based therapies and medications remove or reduce the effect of the triggering elements which precipitate the condition. Moreover, the Autism Spectrum Disorders require a long term intervention and the improvements seen after each course of management may amplify steadily.

Keywords: Vatika, Kaphaja Unmada, ASD.