The Soothing Effects of Shirodhara: Alleviating Stress through an Ancient Ayurvedic Technique: DOI: 10.47223/IRJAY.2023.6819

Sujata Rajan; P. U. Deshmukh; Jatved Pawar; Manoj Shamkuwar; Jaspreet Kaur; Neelam Jakhar

doi:10.47223/IRJAY.2023.6819

Authors

Sujata Rajan Associate Professor and HOD, PG Department of Kriya Sharira, M.D (Ayu.), Phd Scholar (Ayu.) Ayurvedic and Unani Tibbia College and Hospital, Karol Bagh, New Delhi, India.
P. U. Deshmukh Ex-Professor and HOD, Department of Kriya Sharira, RA Podar Ayurved Medical College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Jatved Pawar Professor and HOD, Department of Kriya Sharira, RA Podar Ayurved Medical College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Manoj Shamkuwar Associate Professor and HOD, PG Department of Panchkarma, M.D (Ayu.), Phd (Ayu.),Ayurvedic and Unani Tibbia College and Hospital, Karol Bagh, New Delhi, India.
Jaspreet Kaur MBBS, MD, Associate Professor Biochemistry, SHMMH Medical College, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Neelam Jakhar MD Scholar, PG Department of Kriya Sharira, Ayurvedic and Unani Tibbia College and Hospital, Karol Bagh, New Delhi, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47223/IRJAY.2023.6819

Keywords:

Ayurvedic oil-dripping therapy, Mental health, Shirodhara, Stress, Stress-related biomarkers

Abstract

Introduction: Shirodhara therapy, an ancient Ayurvedic practice, is gaining recognition as a potential stress management tool. This therapy involves the gentle pouring of warm herbal oil or other soothing liquids onto the forehead, inducing deep relaxation. As stress-related disorders continue to rise, exploring effective and alternative approaches like Shirodhara is crucial.

Methods: This article reviews existing scientific literature and clinical studies to evaluate the effectiveness of Shirodhara therapy in stress reduction. Research papers, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were examined to gather relevant data on the physiological and psychological effects of Shirodhara in stress management.

Results: The findings from the reviewed studies suggest that Shirodhara therapy exhibits a significant promise in alleviating stress and its associated symptoms. It has been shown to balance stress hormones, activate the body’s relaxation response, and induce a profound sense of calmness. Moreover, Shirodhara has demonstrated positive outcomes in reducing anxiety levels, improving sleep quality, and lowering blood pressure.

Conclusion: Shirodhara therapy offers a holistic and natural alternative for stress management, with promising results seen in various studies. Its potential integration into mainstream practices is promising. However, further research is needed to understand mechanisms, optimize protocols, and assess long-term efficacy. This emerging field provides exciting opportunities to explore Shirodhara’s therapeutic potential in addressing stress-related disorders.