A review on a selected Ayurvedic herbal formula in the management of Kaphaja Unmada (Major depressive disorder): A critical analysis

Samaranayaka Liyanage Gayani Sewwandi 1, *, Maligaspe Koralage Dulani Nadeeka Koralage 2 and Samarawickrama Bandaralage Chathurika Jeewanthi Jayasena 3

1 Temporary Demonstrator, Department of Cikitsa, Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine, Yakkala, Sri Lanka.
2 Senior Demonstrator, Department of Desheeya Cikitsa, Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine, Yakkala, Sri Lanka.
3 Senior Demonstrator, Department of Ayurveda Basic Principle, Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine, Yakkala, Sri Lanka.
 
Review Article
GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2023, 24(02), 154–160.
Article DOI: 10.30574/gscbps.2023.24.2.0323
Publication history: 
Received on 01 July 2023; revised on 08 August 2023; accepted on 11 August 2023
 
Abstract: 
The widespread psychiatric disease known as major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality with correlation to Kaphaja Unmāda. According to family, twin and adoption studies, genetic variables are crucial in the emergence of MDD and may provide crucial details regarding the disease's pathophysiology. Bacopa monniera (Brāhmi) and Evolvulus alsinoides (Vishnukrānthi) were the ingredients of a decoction from a traditional formula and this review's objective was to investigate how well the herbal formula of decoction effective to treat MDD. Information about MDD and Kaphaja Unmāda was acquired from Ayurvedic scriptures, contemporary texts and earlier research studies (from primary and secondary sources). A survey of the literature was done on those two herbs in the selected decoction and then examined for their Pancha Padārtha (5 elements of herb) and pharmacological qualities regarding in the management of MDD. Ayurvedic Pancha Padārtha study has revealed that selected herbal formula has anti-depressant qualities because of their compatibility with Mēdhya (nootropic action) Prabhāva (special action). The majority of studies have demonstrated the anti-depressant effects of herbal formula, but reviewed articles have also highlighted additional qualities that aid in lowering the symptoms of MDD. According to the literature review and Pancha Padārtha analysis, selected herbal formula is useful in the treatment of MDD. 
 
Keywords: 
Anti-depressant; Kapahaja Unmāda; Major Depressive Disorder; Mēdhya
 
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