Effective Therapy Options for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Ayurvedic Treatment and Interventions for ASD

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Ayurvedic Treatment and Interventions for ASD

ASD is a developmental disorder that appears in early childhood, usually before the age of three. It refers to a broad range of medical conditions that affect the brain's development, particularly in areas of social interaction, communication, and behavior. Children with ASD often have difficulties with social skills, pronounce repetitive behaviors, and may face challenges with speech and nonverbal communication. It may need full-time care because The child can be aggressive with unusual movements, unusual attachments to objects, and not respond to the parent’s affectionate behavior. The early warning signs can be delayed speech, repetitive body movements, and altered social activities, which may indicate a need for autism therapies. Indicators of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3. Some associated development delays can appear even earlier, and often, they can be diagnosed as early as 18 months

Signs and Symptoms of autism

·      Social communication and interaction skills

·      Restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests

Other characteristics seen in people with autism are:

• Delayed language skills/movement skills may require specialized autism therapies to support development.

• Hyperactive, and  Inattentive behavior can be addressed through pivotal response training to help your child engage better.

• Delayed cognitive or learning skills

• Epilepsy

• Unusual eating and sleeping habits

• Gastrointestinal issues

• Anxiety, stress, or excessive worry

• Lack of fear or more fear than expected

Causes of Autism (ASD)

The causes of autism can be genetics, prenatal, perinatal, or post-natal infections, biochemical factors like elevated plasma serotonin

Ayurveda Perspective of Autism

Ayurveda views Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as a behavioral abnormality rooted in a defective neuropsychological platform and a deranged digestive and metabolic system.

Autism and other disorders with autistic features fall under the category of Unmada, where one's mental faculties become imbalanced.

We can find the impaired faculties similar to unmada in Autism spectrum Disorders.

These include impairment of 

·      Mind- Individuals with ASD may experience difficulties in processing sensory information, leading to sensory overload

·      Intellect - While some may have intellectual disabilities, others may exhibit excellent abilities, demonstrating extraordinary skills in specific areas

·      Conscious presence - They may have a tendency to ignore certain sensory stimuli and act as if they are in their own world

·      Desire - This refers to the innate desire to communicate with others

·      Manners - Inappropriate emotional outbursts and a strict adherence to specific rigid routines are common that's why they find difficulties in managing their emotions

·      Activities - Repetitive behaviors and movements are characteristic of ASD,

·      Learnt skills - This includes impaired socialization skills, the inability to follow commands, etc

In Ayurveda, the etiopathology of Unmada (a term that can broadly refer to mental disorders, including ASD) encompasses various factors that are believed to influence the development of these conditions.

Like

·      Beeja dusti /genetic defect

·      Antenatal stress

·      Incompatible foods /virudha ahara

·      Diet and activities of a pregnant mother 

·      Mental ability of pregnant mother etc

Autism Treatment through Ayurveda

There are three main therapeutic streams promoted by Ayurveda in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders (Unamada). They’re:

· The concept of Daiva Vyapasraya refers to treatments aimed at invoking divine intervention and building confidence to  defend unknown evil powers and environmental forces, including microorganisms which include mantras , yajnas, and rituals 

·        Yukti Vyapasraya refers to rational medical management, which involves the systematic and balanced use of medications, therapies, diet, and activities to maintain the balance of the body and promote health which includes Siro Dhara treatments etc

·        Satvavajaya refers to mind or self-management techniques aimed at enhancing cognitive, behavioral, and spiritual skills for the development and maintenance of mental faculties.

Rational treatment of Ayurveda is performed in four sections. They’re:

·        Nidana parivarjana (Uprooting the cause)

·        Samana oushadhis (Pacifying medicines )

·        Shodana oushadhis (Bio cleansers)

·        Diet restrictions (pathya apathya )

Duration of Panchakarma therapy could range from 2 weeks to 3 weeks depending on the severity along with researched internal medicines for about 2 - 3 years.

Panchakarma treatment for Autism(ASD) includes 

·      Correcting the Agni (digestive fire) and Ojas

·      Abhyanga(different types of massages using medicated herbal oils typically done to cure Vata).

·      Shiroabhyanga (Head massage )

·      Thalam (placing herbs mixed with oils or decoctions placed on the vertex of the head),  

·      Shirodhara (Pouring of herbal oil on forehead),

·      Shirovasthy (treatment using a cap of oil on the head usually done to boost the nervous system,  

·      Nasya (medicated oil is instilled in the nostril and the Kapha is eliminated followed by gargling with medicated herbs)

·      Navarakizhi (Medicated Rice Gruel Massage)

·  The herbal treatments are mainly focused on balancing the Tridosha and start with digestive medicines and end with Rasayanas& Memory booster tonics.

·      Rasayanas are a group of medicines intended to rejuvenate the body.

·      Suvarnaprashana, Medhya aushadas can be beneficial in treatment for autism spectrum disorder.  

·      Talapodichil (placing herbs mixed with oils or decoctions placed on the scalp and tied around)  

Best Ayurveda Medicines Used in Autism:

• Saraswatharishtam with Gold 

• Brahmi Taila 

• Brahmi Gritha 

• KalyanakaGritha

• MahakalyanakaGhritam

• Manasamitra Vatakam

• Saraswata Ghritam

• Kallyanaka kashayam

• Saraswatha choornam

• KsheerabalaTailam

• Mahapaishachika ghritham

• Aswagandharistam

• Drakshadi kashayam etc can be part of a holistic approach to support behavioral therapy.

What is an autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction.

What are some common therapy options for individuals with ASD?

Some common therapy options for individuals with ASD include occupational therapy, speech therapy, applied behavior analysis (ABA), and sensory integration therapy.

How can occupational therapy help individuals with ASD?

Occupational therapy can help individuals with ASD develop skills necessary for daily living, improve motor skills, and enhance social interactions.

What is applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy?

ABA therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on improving specific behaviors and skills through positive reinforcement and systematic interventions.

How effective is Ayurvedic treatment for individuals with ASD?

Ayurvedic treatment can be beneficial for individuals with ASD by addressing specific symptoms and promoting overall well-being through natural remedies and lifestyle changes.

Are there any social skills interventions available for individuals with ASD?

Yes, there are social skills interventions specifically designed to help individuals with ASD improve their communication and social interactions.

What are some key aspects to consider when exploring treatment options for ASD?

When exploring treatment options for ASD, it is important to consider the individual's specific needs, preferences, and response to different therapies, as well as consult with healthcare providers and specialists.

Can sensory integration therapy benefit individuals with ASD?

Yes, sensory integration therapy can help individuals with ASD regulate sensory input, improve sensory processing, and enhance their ability to engage in daily activities.

Can a child with autism live a normal life?

Yes he /she can but with right support given

Can an autistic child speak normally?

Many children have some difficulties with or delays in communication and speech. 

Can autism be fully treated?

No, but some therapies can help alleviate symptoms

What is the hardest age for autism?

They show some difficulties until the school-age 

What is the best age to treat autism?

Before pre-schooling 

Can a mild autistic child become normal?

Yes but with the right support, behavioral therapy, and medical intervention, your child may improve. 

How to encourage an autistic child to talk?

Generally use phrases with one more word than your child is using.

Follow your child's interests. Using the one-up rule, narrate what your child is doing in various social situations. These ways help to encourage the child to talk 

You   can try some medicated ghee prescribed in Ayurveda like Saraswatha ghritham etc which will help to alleviate symptoms

Do autistic toddlers understand what you say?

They have difficulty understanding skills 

Can an autistic child live independently?

Yes he /she may but it varies with each person 

Will my 7-year-old autistic child ever talk?

They may have to seek proper medical advice 

What is ABA autism treatment

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a science-backed, intensive approach to improving social behavior among children with autism.

How was autism treated in the 1980s

Auditory integration training (AIT) was developed in the 1980s as a treatment for autism which involves listening to specific sounds and tones to improve auditory processing skills.

Family, especially the mother has to start speaking to the child even when it's in her womb. Ayurveda plays a very vital role in Garbha samskara where these practices are highlighted for a healthy progeny, which can help your child thrive. 

Which autism treatment is most widely used

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is one of the most widely used options for both adults and children. But Ayurveda has science backed practices in  which parents have to practice certain procedures even when they plan to beget a child

Can autism go away without treatment?

Autism is a lifelong diagnosis, however, due to several factors, symptoms may appear to improve over time.

Can autism get worse without treatment

Untreated autism spectrum disorder symptoms worsen over time

Autism treatment: Can chelation therapy help?

Chelation therapy is a process in which potent medications are used to remove heavy metals from the human body. Though it was recommended in the late 90s by alternate practitioners as it may be risky to practice 

Are siblings at greater risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

When one child is diagnosed with ASD, the next child to come along has about a 20% greater chance of developing ASD

Do vaccines cause autism (ASD)?

No, there is no documented proof that vaccines causing Autism(ASD)

How does occupational therapy benefit people with ASD?

Occupational therapy for autism evaluates the current developmental levels of children and adults with ASD and aims to improve their ability to self-regulate emotions  and  overcome limitations.

How does speech therapy benefit people with ASD?

Speech therapy for autism Helps improve communication skills, social interactions, and understanding of language through early intensive behavioral therapy.. That’s where ayurveda suggests garbhasanskaras

If my child does have autism spectrum disorder, is there a way to tell how severe it is?

 It's generally based on the level of impairments and how they impact the ability to function. 

What does an occupational therapist do?

Occupational therapists evaluate and treat people who have disabilities. They help clients meet goals to develop, recover, improve, and maintain skills needed for daily living and working.

What is high-functioning autism?

High-functioning autism (HFA) was historically an autism classification where a person exhibits no intellectual disability, but may experience difficulty in communication, emotion recognition, expression, and social interaction.

What role does speech therapy play in the treatment of autism?

For those with Autism, speech therapy goes beyond improving verbal communication. It also focuses on enhancing nonverbal cues, boosting social communication skills, and fostering self-expression.

When is the best time to start speech therapy for autism?

As soon as speech and language delays are identified, even as early as 2 or 3 years of age, early intensive behavioral therapy can help your child., can prevent further delays and facilitate quicker progress.

What kind of support is available to families of children with autism spectrum disorders

Emotional support is the one word answer, further care and support of various levels are provided by various governments and NGOs across the globe.