Autism Ayurvedic Treatment

The word Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) refers to a variety of health condition caused by problems in the development of brain. Its features can be identified even from early childhood. The main symptoms are problems with social interaction and communication. Usually, the child shows a wide range of symptoms with varying severity, and hence the term ‘Autism Spectrum Disorder’. ASD include Autism, Asperger’s syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and pervasive developmental disorder. The child with ASD may not show signs/ symptoms of the disease in the first year of life, but later there will be a period of regression (between 18-24 months) with gradual development of signs and symptoms. The possible causes are genetics and environmental factors (eg: difficulties during pregnancy, infections etc). There is no cure for autism, but early diagnosis and treatment can improve the quality of life.

Autism Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of autism differ from child to child in their nature and severity. An infant may show early signs and symptoms of autism- like poor eye contact, lack of response while calling name, indifferent towards care taker etc. In some other children there may not be any features of autism, but later (within 2years of age) they suddenly become aggressive or depressed/ withdrawn or lose their language skills. The common features are poor intelligence/ normal to high intelligence, learning disabilities, problems in social interaction etc.

Children having problems with social communication and interaction will not respond to call by their name, seems to be in their own world, playing alone, denies to be caressed or hugged, have less facial expression, lack eye contact with others, feels difficulty to understand simple questions and non-verbal communication (eg: facial expression, body language etc), repeat words or phrases without knowing its use etc. There may be pattern of behaviours such as repeated hand movements/ spinning etc, indulge in self-harming activities, follows special routines and feeling frustrated even by simple change in them, abnormally focus on an activity or object with intense interest, abnormal walking styles (eg: toe walking), odd body language etc.

Sometimes the symptoms may get relieved by time. Others have to live with the difficulties.

Autism Ayurvedic Analysis

Mastulunga (brain) is a part of majja dhatu and is originated from mother in embryonic stage as per Ayurveda. Any damage to the development of majja dhatu can cause derangements in intellect, speech, memory, activities etc. Aggravation of vata is the major cause of majja dhatu dushti.

Autism Causative Factors (Ayurveda)

Abhighata (trauma/ injury etc), incompatible food intake (by parents) etc can be causes of majjadushti. Vata is aggravated by injuries, over-activity, increased age etc.

Possible Complications of Autism Disease

Common complications of ASD are learning disabilities, difficulty to live independently, work-place problems, unhappy family atmosphere, social isolation etc.

Other systemic disease and precautions to be taken

Brain tumours, certain inherited disorders etc can cause intellectual problems in children. Thorough examination is needed prior to diagnosis and treatment.

Autism Disease Management with Ayurveda Treatment

Internal medicines are given to improve the agni (transforming energy within cells), and strengthen brain cells. Procedures like snehana (external application of suitable oil over the body), swedana (kizhi, pizhichil, sirodhara etc), nasya (nasal instillation of medicine), local treatments like siropichu etc are provided along with medications. Supportive therapies like physiotherapy, speech therapy etc are also given.

Diet

Reduce the consumption of food items that further aggravates vata. Include more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, small fishes etc in diet.

Exercise

Mild to moderate exercise can be done as per the guidance of physician. Yoga is also an effective technique.

Autism Preventive Aspects in Ayurveda

ASD cannot be prevented as the exact cause is unknown. But it is recommended that the parents should follow a healthy lifestyle at least 6 months before conception to beget quality ovum and sperm. Early diagnosis can make changes in autistic child with appropriate interventions.

Importance of Diet

The diet of parents during the pre-conceptional period is much relevant as per Ayurveda. The food pattern of pregnant women is also well explained. All these contribute to the overall health and development of foetus.

Lifestyle

The parents of autistic child should be well aware about the condition. Never compare the child with others. Give enough support to the child, at home, school and society. Provide supportive measures like special learning techniques, physiotherapy, speech therapy etc to improve the quality of life.