Ayurvedic Conceptual Framework and Systematic Treatment Protocol for Autism Spectrum Disorder

By : Vaidya M. Prasad

Page No: 433-446

Abstract
The aim of the paper is to delineate the fundamental principles of °yurveda as applied in the presentation of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) among children and present a systematic Àyurvedic treatment protocol for children diagnosed with ASD. The author - a practising Àyurvedic expert physician and scholar notes that °yurveda is a theory based system and these theoretical principles empower the clinician towards applications of the same in specific context and practice. The author also notes that classical °yurvedic texts do not specifically discuss ASD and the paper involves original research efforts towards identifying resolutions in the context of parents and children with ASD, who are looking towards Àyurveda for relief. With the objective to present the Àyurvedic principles and a systematic treatment protocol, the author delineates the Àyurvedic logical framework as applied to ASD from his extensive clinical practice. Further, based on his clinical work, the paper presents a systematic phase wise Àyurvedic protocol for ASD. The paper has profound implications for the integration of indigenous Àyurvedic medicines in the context of contemporary disorders. Second, the paper indicates several hypotheses that can now be tested empirically in the next phases of research. If proven, an evidenced based policy on Àyurvedic treatment for children with ASD can be proposed and implemented.

Author :
Vaidya M. Prasad : Professor and HOD – Department of Shalakya Tantra, Ashtamgam °yurveda Chilkitsalayam evam Vidyapeedham, Vavanoor, Koottanad, Palakkad District, Kerala, India.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/JPR.2020.15.02.7