Ayurveda offers holistic solutions to rising mental health disorders: Dr Shikha Sikri
Ferozepur, February 17, 2026: With mental health disorders steadily increasing in today’s fast-paced lifestyle, Ayurveda offers a time-tested and holistic approach to addressing psychiatric illnesses by focusing on both the mind and body, said Dr Shikha Sikri, Professor and Head of the Department of Kayachikitsa at Harmony Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital.
Dr Sikri explained that conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress-related disorders, and substance dependence are now affecting people across all age groups. While modern psychiatry provides valuable treatment through counselling and medication, Ayurveda complements it by addressing the root causes of mental imbalance rather than only managing symptoms.
She said that Ayurveda describes mental disorders under the concept of Manas Roga. Classical texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita explain that the mind is governed by three qualities—Sattva (clarity and balance), Rajas (agitation and activity), and Tamas (inertia and dullness). An excess of Rajas and Tamas disturbs mental equilibrium, leading to conditions comparable to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and psychosis.
According to Dr Sikri, imbalance of bodily doshas, particularly Vata, plays a significant role in psychiatric symptoms such as fear, restlessness, and insomnia. Factors like irregular lifestyle, excessive screen time, poor sleep, unhealthy diet, work pressure, social isolation, and lack of emotional support further aggravate mental distress.
She highlighted Ayurveda’s threefold treatment approach—Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa (spiritual practices like meditation and mantras), Yuktivyapashraya Chikitsa (rational treatment using herbs, diet and lifestyle changes), and Satvavajaya Chikitsa (psychotherapy-like counselling and behavioural regulation). Herbs such as Brahmi, Ashwagandha and Jatamansi are commonly used to reduce stress, improve sleep and promote emotional balance.
Dr Sikri emphasised that Ayurveda does not oppose modern psychiatry. Severe mental illnesses require professional psychiatric care, but mild to moderate stress-related conditions can benefit from Ayurvedic therapies, yoga, pranayama, and disciplined routines. Therapies like Shirodhara, Nasya and Abhyanga help calm the nervous system and restore balance.
She concluded that mental health is about creating harmony in life through balanced diet, proper sleep, daily discipline, mindfulness, and strong social connections.