Hysteria

Hysteria, historically described as a psychological condition characterized by extreme emotional excitability, anxiety, and sometimes physical symptoms without a clear organic cause, is now understood in modern medicine as a range of psychological disorders like anxiety or conversion disorder. However, in Ayurveda, such conditions are often linked to imbalances in the Vata dosha, which governs the nervous system, and sometimes Pitta dosha, which governs emotions and metabolism.

Ayurvedic treatment for hysteria or related emotional and psychological conditions focuses on calming the mind, balancing the nervous system, and promoting mental clarity through herbs, dietary changes, and lifestyle practices.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Hysteria

1. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)

   • Properties: Brahmi is a potent herb for calming the mind, improving mental clarity, and reducing anxiety. It is known to balance Vata and Pitta doshas, making it effective in managing symptoms of hysteria.
   • Usage: Brahmi can be taken in powder, capsule, or liquid form. A typical dosage is 1-2 teaspoons of Brahmi powder mixed with warm milk or water, or 500 mg to 1 gram of capsules twice daily.

2. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

   • Properties: Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps the body manage stress, reduces anxiety, and strengthens the nervous system. It is particularly beneficial for balancing Vata dosha.
   • Usage: Ashwagandha is commonly consumed as a powder or capsule. The usual dosage is 500 mg to 1 gram twice daily, often mixed with warm milk or taken with water.

3. Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)

   • Properties: Jatamansi is a powerful calming herb that helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and insomnia. It is used in Ayurveda to stabilize emotions and promote mental tranquility.
   • Usage: Jatamansi can be used as a powder, decoction, or in capsule form. The recommended dosage is 250-500 mg of the herb taken twice daily.

4. Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis)

   • Properties: Shankhapushpi is known for its calming and brain-enhancing properties. It helps improve memory, reduce anxiety, and calm the nervous system.
   • Usage: Shankhapushpi can be taken as a powder, capsule, or in the form of a syrup. The typical dosage is 1-2 teaspoons of the powder or 500 mg in capsule form twice daily.

5. Tagara (Valeriana wallichii)

   • Properties: Tagara is a natural sedative and tranquilizer that helps in reducing anxiety, stress, and emotional disturbances. It is particularly useful in balancing Vata dosha and calming the mind.
   • Usage: Tagara can be consumed in powder or capsule form, with a usual dosage of 500 mg to 1 gram taken before bedtime to promote restful sleep and reduce anxiety.

6. Chandana (Sandalwood)

   • Properties: Sandalwood has cooling and calming properties, which help in reducing Pitta-related emotional disturbances like anger and irritability. It also promotes mental clarity and peace.
   • Usage: Sandalwood powder can be mixed with water or milk and taken internally, or applied externally as a paste to the forehead to soothe the mind.

7. Saraswatarishta

   • Properties: Saraswatarishta is a classical Ayurvedic formulation that supports mental health, improves memory, and reduces stress and anxiety. It is particularly beneficial for balancing Vata and Pitta doshas.
   • Usage: Saraswatarishta is usually taken in doses of 15-20 ml mixed with equal amounts of water, twice daily after meals.

Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

1. Vata and Pitta-Pacifying Diet:

   • Follow a diet that calms Vata and Pitta, including warm, cooked, and easily digestible foods. Incorporate sweet, sour, and salty tastes to balance Vata, and avoid spicy, acidic, and caffeinated foods that aggravate Pitta.

2. Hydration:

   • Stay well-hydrated by drinking warm water or herbal teas throughout the day. Chamomile and licorice teas are particularly soothing for the mind.

3. Regular Routine:

   • Maintain a regular daily routine, including consistent meal times, sleep, and exercise. This helps stabilize Vata dosha and reduce anxiety and emotional instability.

4. Gentle Exercise and Yoga:

   • Engage in gentle exercises such as walking, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises (Pranayama) to calm the nervous system and promote mental peace.

5. Meditation and Relaxation Techniques:

   • Practice meditation, mindfulness, or relaxation techniques like Shavasana (Corpse Pose) to calm the mind and reduce stress.

6. Aromatherapy:

   • Use calming essential oils like sandalwood, lavender, and rose in diffusers or as massage oils to soothe the mind and reduce emotional disturbances.

7. Avoid Overstimulation:

   • Limit exposure to loud noises, stressful environments, and excessive screen time, as these can exacerbate symptoms of hysteria and anxiety.

Ayurvedic Medicine in the United States

Ayurvedic remedies for managing hysteria and related psychological conditions are available in the United States through various health stores, online platforms, and Ayurvedic practitioners. Products such as Brahmi, Ashwagandha, and Jatamansi can be found in various forms, including capsules, powders, and oils. Additionally, Ayurvedic clinics offer consultations to tailor treatments to individual needs.

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to managing hysteria and related psychological conditions by addressing the root causes through dosha balance, herbal remedies, and lifestyle changes. By incorporating Ayurvedic practices, individuals can achieve mental peace, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall well-being. Consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner is recommended to tailor treatments and ensure effective management of symptoms.