A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN TERMS OF AYURVEDA

Abstract

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorders are conditions characterised by impaired social interaction communication skills and associated stereotypic, restrictive and repetitive behavioural patterns. According to a WHO report, it is estimated that worldwide, about one in 100 children has ASD. In India, according to the calculation of the Rehabilitation Council of India, the prevalence rate is 1 in 500 or 0.2%. Multimodal management approach of Ayurveda comprising herbal supplements, Ayurveda compounds, and panchakarma therapies. In Ayurvedic literature, Acharyas mention three types of chikitsa for the whole body and mind level- daivavyapashraya, yuksivyapashraya and satvavjaya chikitsa. These treatments benefit autistic children by a different mechanism of action and improve their quality of life. It concluded that Ayurveda provides safe, effective, cheap and untoward effect-free management along with enhancing the quality of life for people living with ASD and bringing back smiles on parents' faces.