Autism is a medical condition classified as a neuro-developmental disorder in which boys are more affected than girls, and display problems with social interactions, impaired verbal and non-verbal communication, as well as repetitive behaviour, along with narrow and restricted interests. Environmental, immunological, and metabolic factors contribute to causing autism, while genetics is believed to play the most important role. The modern management of children with autism consists of behavioural therapy combined with specific education, and periodical assessment by a multidisciplinary team.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for autism involves the use of herbal medicines which have a known affinity for the central nervous system and which strengthen the brain cells as well as the connections between the brain synapses. Herbal medicines need to be given for prolonged periods in high doses in order to bring about a noticeable improvement in children affected with autism; however, since herbal medicines have a very wide safety margin, there are no concerns about the prolonged use of these medicines even in children, and no major side-effects of treatment are observed.
Ayurvedic herbal medicines are also given improve verbal and non-verbal communication in affected children. Herbal medicines are also given to improve neuromuscular coordination as well as improve the functioning of all the sense organs. This brings about a wholesome improvement in affected individuals, and significant improvement can be seen within about four to six months of starting treatment. Ayurvedic herbal treatment needs to be given for about 9 to12 months in order to bring about a complete control of most of the dysfunctional symptoms which are normally seen in autism.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the management and treatment of children affected with autism.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com
