Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder in which the affected individual is overly concerned about a particular issue to such an extent that it forces him/her to indulge in repetitive behaviour, which the individual recognises is uncalled for. This condition may cause personal distress, family disruptions, and social embarrassment. OCD is usually present in otherwise normal individuals; however, sometimes other symptoms may also be present, suggestive of some underlying psychiatric disorder.
Most individuals affected with OCD usually first approach a psychiatrist for medication; however, other than controlling anxiety, these medicines usually do not offer any substantial relief. Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offers some benefit to such people. The advantage of Ayurvedic medicines is that these medicines are safe for long-term use and actually treat the root problem in OCD. The medicines help affected individuals to develop sufficient understanding and will power to control their obsession and curtail their compulsive behaviour. Regular Ayurvedic treatment for 4-6 months gives people affected with OCD sufficient control over their affliction, and allows then freedom to enjoy their lives without the shackles of this affliction.
People who concurrently show signs of some psychiatric disorder need to be treated for that condition too. Treatment for refractory patients can be given in a combined form, with a combination of Ayurvedic medicines and CBT or Ayurvedic medicines combined with modern anti-psychotic drugs. In such situations, regular supervision of a psychiatrist is recommended. However, for nearly 90 % of people with OCD, Ayurvedic medicines and some simple counselling suffice to give significant relief from this condition.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of OCD, kindly click on https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com/product-page/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd
