Treatment of Tourette Syndrome in Ayurveda with Herbal Remedies
Abstract
Tourette syndrome is a prevalent neurobehavioral condition that usually develops in childhood and affects boys more often than girls. Tics are often preceded by premonitory sensory impulses, and this characteristic aids in separating them from other hyperkinetic movement disorders. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, learning challenges, and impulse control disorder are frequently linked to Tourette syndrome. This complex disorder’s mechanism is poorly known. Numerous imaging and postmortem studies have revealed that the dopaminergic system and circuits connected to the basal ganglia may be involved. Even though it is thought to be a hereditary illness that may be affected by environmental variables, a thorough search has not yet been able to identify the genes that cause it.

Introduction
It is possible that Tourette syndrome is the result of abnormal brain development trajectories because the onset of involuntary movements, vocalisations, and subsequent natural history of Tourette syndrome occur in a predictable pattern over the first two to three decades of life. Basal ganglia abnormalities are thought to be the pathophysiology of Tourette syndrome, and this theory dominates discussions of the brain system abnormalities that underlie Tourette syndrome. Tourette syndrome is the diagnosis when there are both motor and phonic tics; they start before the age of 18, and they last for more than a year. Recent estimates show that children are more likely than adults to have Tourette syndrome, with epidemiological studies estimating that 0.5% to 1.0% of kids have the condition. The estimated prevalence of Tourette syndrome in adults is significantly lower, by a factor of about 10, which is consistent with the unique natural history of the condition.
Definition
Involuntary movements that are repeated, largely stereotyped, and typically of short duration are known as motor and phonic tics. Tics can be easy or difficult. Simple tics are quick, pointless movements that frequently only use one muscle group. Complex tics take longer to develop and may involve vocalizations or movements that appear to be coordinated. Some basic tics, known as “dystonic tics,” last longer. Tics differ from the chorea-athetosis-ballism spectrum’s random movements and the majority of myoclonus types due to their largely stereotyped nature. Tics typically do not occur as quickly as ordinary myoclonus. Anatomically, motor tics are distributed in a distinctive way. There is a rostrocaudal gradient of tic expression, with the majority of motor tics including eye, facial, neck, and shoulder movements, even if truncal and limb tics are frequently observed in clinical settings. Tics are a common occurrence that often starts in childhood and is frequently fleeting. Adult-onset tics are rare. Some people simply experience motor tics, whereas others may have one continuous tic.
Classification Of Tourette Syndrome
Simple:
Simple tics are fleeting, short, repetitive motions involving a limited number of muscle units. They happen more often than complex tics.
Simple motor tics consist of:
- Other eye motions, such as blinking
- Grimacing face
- Shoulders hunching
- Jerking of the head or shoulders
Simple vocal tics consist of:
- Throat clearing repeatedly
- Sniffing
- a barking grunt
Complex:
Complex tics are distinct, well-coordinated movements that involve several different muscle units across the body. One example of a complex motor tic is a grimace that is accompanied with a head twist and shoulder shrug.
The following complicated motor tics may also seem intentional:
- Touching or sniffing something
- Jumping, hopping, and bending
- Twisting
Complex vocal tics can include:
- Repeating one’s own sentences or words
- Using someone else’s words or phrases in your own (echolalia)
- Uttering coarse, offensive, or profane language (coprolalia)
Triggers Of Tics
Tics can get worse with elation or worry and improve with quiet, focused activity. Tics can be brought on or made worse by specific physical sensations; for instance, wearing a tight collar might bring on neck tics. It may cause similar sounds when you hear someone else sniff or clear their throat. Tics do not go away during light sleep, but they are frequently greatly reduced, profound sleep is when they totally disappear.
Causes Of Tourette Syndrome
TS comes from an unknown source, despite this. The frontal lobes, cortex, and basal ganglia are among the areas of the brain that are implicated. These locations are connected through circuitry. Dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine are examples of neurotransmitters that facilitate communication between neurons.
Symptoms
Some people with TS are able to suppress or otherwise control their tics to decrease how much of an impact they have on everyday life, despite the fact that TS symptoms are unwanted and unplanned (involuntary). But people with TS frequently report feeling so tense while attempting to suppress their ticks that they believe the tick must be let out (against their will). Though they may appear to be intentional or willful, tics brought on by an environmental trigger are not.
Management
- There is no specific management for Tourette syndrome. This is managed only symptomatically.
- However, if the symptoms are mild and do not cause any impairment, there is no need to treat them.
- But if symptoms occur and interfere with the daily routine and functions, there are some effective medications like
- Dopamine blockers
- Alpha-adrenergic agonists, etc.
Ayurvedic View
Tourette syndrome is related to vata vyadhi in many Ayurvedic texts. The term “Vata Vyadhi” refers to a group of disorders induced by vitiated vata. Vata Vyadhi treats a wide spectrum of neurological, neuromusculoskeletal, and degenerative illnesses. Vata is in charge of all central nervous system functions in the body. It is in charge of all bodily activities and disorders induced by Vata in its vitiated state, known as Vatavyadhi. Although Vata is present in everyone, it does not cause sickness in everyone. Only vitiated Vata is responsible for sickness; there are over 80 Nanatmaj Vyadhi. According to Charak, the causes of all these Vatavyadhi can be classified into two types: Dhatu kshaya janya and Margavarodhjanya. Brihana is used to treat Dhatu Kshaya Janya, and Vata-Anulomak Chikitsa is used to treat Margavarodhjanya. Rasayana medicines are used to treat neurotransmitter dysfunction. When Vata is inflamed, it causes numerous ailments in the body and deteriorates or lowers strength, complexion, happiness, and vitality throughout the lifespan of an individual. It affects the mind and senses, destroys, deforms, or retains the embryo for longer lengths of time, causes dread, anguish, attachment, humility, extreme delirium, and takes away life.
Definition Of Vata Vyadhi
Any specific state created by vitiated Vata Dosha is referred to as vatavyadhi.
Causes Of Vitiation Of Vata Dosha
It is separated into two categories:
1. Dhatukshayajanya Hetu: Due to the consumption of dry, cold, deficient, and light food, excessive sex, sleeplessness, improper treatments, expelling of Dosha (during the course of treatments such as emesis, purgation, etc.), or bloodletting, depletion of body tissue, worry, grief, extreme debility due to protracted diseases, use of uncomfortable beds or seats, anger, day sleep, or even with fright, suppression of natural urges, Vata has become exacerbated. These Hetu are in charge of all tissue loss. This vitiated Vata fills the body’s empty channels, resulting in a wide range of generalised and localised illnesses.
2. Margavrodhjanya Hetu includes hetu that leads to ama formation. Margavrodhjanya Hetu can also contain obstructions to the various channels caused by Kapha, Mala, and other factors.
Samprapti
Vata might become aggravated due to Dhatu Kshaya (diminution of tissue elements) or Avarana (obstruction of its passage). With its Laghu, Ruksha, Khara, and Parusha Guna, exacerbated Vata vitiates Strotas, making these Rikta Strotas prone to Dosha Sthansanshraya (lodging). Chakrapani commented on Rikta Strotas, saying that there is “Snehadi Guna Shunyatvam.” The body’s channels lost their protective sheaths and properties such as unctuousness, smoothness, and stickiness, among others. When vitiated Vata occupies the vulnerable Strotas, it produces Ekanga (restricted to certain portions of the body) or Sarvanga (all over the body) Vyadhi. Vata Vyadhi refers to Vyadhi that manifests in a specific area of the body or throughout the entire body.
Management
- Snehan (oleation therapy)
- Sweden (sudation therapy)
- Sanshodhan (mild purgations)
Planet Ayurveda’s Herbal Remedies For Tourette Syndrome
Planet Ayurveda produces Ayurvedic medications made exclusively from plants. All of our goods are GMP-certified and vegan. This medication has no chemicals, additives, or preservatives.
Planet Ayurveda offers the following natural therapies for Tourette syndrome:
Product Description
1. Neurogenie Capsules
Planet Ayurveda’s Neurogenie capsules are capsule formulations. It is a blend of Brahmi and Ashwagandha. Both of these are beneficial for nerve strengthening and relaxation. As the name implies (Withania somnifera), Somnifera is a calming, sleep-inducing, and nerve-relaxing herb. Both of these herbs are also beneficial for sleep difficulties and headaches. It aids in the treatment of Tourette syndrome by lowering nerve activity.
Dosage:The suggested dosage is 1 capsule twice daily, taken after food.
2. Medhya Churna
Medhya churna is a powder composition that has been reported in traditional preparations. Vacha (Acorus calamus), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Ajmoda (Carum roxburghianum), Sonth (Zinziber officinalis), Maricha (Piper nigrum), Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) are blended together. These medications contain anti-inflammatory qualities as well as nerve-strengthening and relaxation properties. Ashwagandha also aids in dosha balance. As a result, this churna formulation has a significant effect on tourette syndrome and other CNS illnesses.
Dosage:Scrub the tongue with a 1/4th teaspoon of warm milk twice.
3. Neuroplan Syrup
This is a syrup formulation made by MD experts of planet Ayurveda. This formulation is made with the following drugs: Brahmi (Bacopa monerie), Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Jyotishmati (Celastrus paniculatus), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Maricha (Piper nigrum), etc. This formulation is beneficial in the nervous system and nerve disorders, and it has great results in Tourette syndrome.
Dosage:2 teaspoons in warm water twice daily.
4. Brahmi Ghrit
This is a traditional Ayurvedic composition that uses brahmi as the main ingredient. Brahmi is thought to be the finest for nerve and mind relaxation. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Kutha (Saussurea lappa), and ghee are used to make it. These medications together are best for managing Tourette syndrome.
Dosage:1 teaspoon in warm water twice daily.
5. Stress Support
Stress Support is a Capsule formulation created by MD professionals at Planet Ayurveda. It combines Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Tagar (Valeriana wallichii), and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). These three medications are thought to be the most effective for central nervous system and nervous system problems. It is also beneficial in the treatment of Tourette syndrome.
Dosage: The suggested dosage is one capsule taken twice daily with warm water.
Conclusion
The entire body is the residence of all three Doshas, and equilibrium leads to good health or disease. Vata, in its natural state, maintains the mechanisms of the entire body. It executes all bodily functions, assists sense organs in gathering information, and regulates the mind. Thus, the functions of Vata Dosha correspond not only to nervous system functions but also to system functions concerned with the regulation, signaling, conduction, and control of information in the body. In a nutshell, vitiated Vata affects all of the body’s major systems, including the musculoskeletal, neurohormonal, neuromuscular, and circulatory systems. Vata imbalance causes chronic degenerative alterations in organs. Thus, studying Vatavyadhi categorization aids in determining cause, prognosis, and specific treatment approaches.
October 14, 2023
Ayurveda relation of Hemapheresis with Raktashodhana
Abstract
Hemapheresis is the process of selective collection of any blood component, with the use of automated equipment. In this process components of blood ie: RBC, WBC, plasma and platelets are removed from the patient ‘s body to achieve patient health and provide relief in symptoms. These diseases are not completely prevented but the symptoms and conditions are manageable. Let’s discuss Hemapheresis in detail about Hemapheresis.
Introduction
In the process of hemapheresis there is a removal of whole blood from the body of the donor. It is the process by which one or more components are withdrawn from the blood and returned by transfusion of remaining blood to the donor. Hemapheresis is considered as a supportive treatment for auto-immune and blood disorders. In auto-immune disorders the body produces antibodies which attack its own immune system and create infection in the blood. Ayurveda produces some of the great herbs and therapies which are very effective in cleansing the blood, in which leech therapy is very important. Rakta shodhana and Rakta mokshana are the procedures that are involved in hemapheresis. The blood is alive, contains living cells and is the fluid of health, transporting disease fighting substances to the tissue and waste to kidneys. The components of blood ie. red blood cells and white blood cells are responsible for nourishment and cleansing the body, blood also carries the oxygen to all body parts. When the body grows, it faces toxins, environmental pathogens and contaminated food by which the blood gets infected which causes the blood disorders.
Process of Hemapheresis
In this process the blood is taken from the donor’s body and then blood is removed from the donor’s body through a needle. Removed blood is mixed with the anticoagulant and separated in separators which works on the centrifugation process. Where the desired component is separated and the blood is returned to the donor’s body results in the filtered plasma.
The components which are separated are
- Leukocytes (leukapheresis)
- Plasma (Plasmapheresis)
- Platelets (Plateletpheresis)
Leukapheresis: White blood cells (leukocytes) are removed from the patient’s body if the patient is suffering from a disease like thrombosis.
Plasmapheresis
Plasma is the important component of the blood and contains antibodies and antigen- antibody complexes which may contribute to effects of autoimmune disorders. Plasma removal helps in reducing the circulating antibodies and immune complexes. In case a large amount of plasma is removed, the plasma from a healthy donor is given to the patient which is called plasma exchange.
Plateletpheresis: This is very rare like: Myeloproliferative disorders, platelet count can be very high. Removal of platelets is helpful in Platelet removal and can help to avoid complications of thrombosis and bleeding.
Indications of Hemapheresis
Indications of Hemapheresis are
- Malaria
- Leukocytosis
- Sickle cell disease
- Liver transplantation
- Familial cholesterolemia
- Lung transplantation
- Wilson disease
- Hemolytic disease of foetus
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Thrombocytosis
- Myasthenia gravis
- Kidney transplantation
- Aplastic anaemia
- Dermatomyositis
- Systemic amyloidosis
- Burn with circulatory shock
- Acute liver failure
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
- Multiple sclerosis
- ABO- Incompatible hematopoietic solid organ transplantation
- Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
- Auto-immune hemolytic anaemia
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Coagulation factor inhibitors
- ABO- Incompatible hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Ayurvedic Overview of Hemaphereis
In Ayurveda blood is known as rakta and a very important component of the human body, disorders of blood cause prolonged and chronic disease. Acharya Shusruta who is known as father of surgery considered Rakta as a fourth dosha, mainly three doshas are the base of the body ie. Vata, Pitta and Kapha but Acharya Shusruta has also described Rakta as a fourth dosha. In Ayurvedic perceptive when doshas contaminates the blood it results in blood disorders which in ayurveda is called as Rakta Pradosaja Vikara, and there are many rakta-pradosja vikara and their modern co-relation which are as follows
- Pleeha (Splenomegaly)
- Vidhradi (Abscess)
- Pama (Scabies)
- Kamala (Jaundice)
- Neelika (Hyperpigmentation)
- Arsha (Piles)
- Asya paka (Stomatitis/ Mouth ulcers)
- Mashaka (Elevated moles)
- Shwitra (Leucoderma/vitiligo)
- Charamadala (Dermatitis)
- Kotha (Urticaria)
- Tilkalka ( Black Moles)
- Vyanga (Freckles)
- Visarpa (Herpes)
- Indralupta (Alopecia)
- Asru Dhara (Menorrhagia)
- Kushtha (Leprosy)
- Guda pak (Inflammation of anal canal)
- Raktapitta (Bleeding disorders)
- Vatashonit (Gout arthritis)
- Medhra paka (Inflammation of penis)
- Arbuda (Tumours)
- Piplu (Port wine mark)
- Gulma (Abdominal tumours)
Ayurveda Relation of Hemapheresis with Raktashodhana
Hemapheresis is related with Rakta Shodhana (purifying blood) and Rakta mokshana in Ayurveda and raktashodhana is the process which is used to purify the blood by using various herbs. There is also another process by which the vitiated Rakta is balanced which is known as Raktamokshna (bloodletting). Now we do not have to confuse rakta shodhana and rakta mokshana, both the processes are quite different. Purifying the blood through the herbs and natural remedies is called Rakta shodhana and where the toxins are very high and Rakta shodhna is not enough, in that case Rakta mokshana is used. Herbs which are used in Rakta shodhana are as follows
Effective Herbs to Purify the Blood
- Guduchi
- Haridra
- Manjishtha
- Neem
- Sariva
Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia)
Guduchi is very useful in the aggravation of Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) , has anti- inflammatory properties and gives relief from the pain. This herb plays a great role in conditions of worm infestation, gives relief in jaundice, and increases the blood cells. Guduchi is very effective in chronic fever, in skin disorders and also reduces the weakness.
Haridra (Curcuma Longa)
The herb pacifies the Tridoshas and purifies the blood and is useful in preparation of the Red Blood cells. Haridra contains antiprotozoal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and useful in anaemia, leprosy haemorrhage and diabetes etc.
Manjishtha (Rubia Cordifolia)
Manjishtha pacifies the vitiated rakta and contains properties like: anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and anti protozoal. The herb is very effective in leprosy and in wound healing. It purifies the blood completely and acts as a rasanya and also gives relief from stress. The herb is very effective in female reproduction, contains diabetic properties, boosts the stamina and removes the toxins.
Neem (Azadirachta Indica)
Neem contains various properties and is helpful in many problems, it mainly pacifies the Pitta dosha due to its soothing and cooling effects. This herb is used in healing of the wound, abscess, blood disorders, alopecia, itching and greying of the hairs.
Sariva (Hemidesmus Indicus)
Sariva is useful in pacifying all tridoshas, has anti-inflammatory properties and contains a cooling effect. Sariva acts as a rasayana and is diuretic, it increases sexual activity and also increases fertility. The herb contains blood cleansing properties and is helpful in conditions like: syphilis, elephantiasis and leprosy etc. This herb is very useful in digestive problems and also acts as a diuretic.
Rakta Mokshana Therapy
Acharya Sushruta has described raktamokshana as a type of panchkarma. Rakta mokshana is used when there is a presence of high toxins and rakata shodhana is not enough. Some of the natural sources (ie. Instrumental and non-instrumental) used in this therapy are
Instrumental (Shastra)
Siravedha and Pracchan (Vein puncturing)
Non- instrumental (Anu-shastra): Alabu (Pitcher gourd), Jaloka (Leech therapy) and Shrunga (Cow’s horn method)
Instrumental
Siravedha (Venepuncture)
This procedure is very useful in destroying the disease from the root. Venepuncture in Shalya tantra is considered as the half complete therapy for numerous diseases as blood is the pathogenic factor in most of the diseases.
Prachana (Blood Letting by Puncturing)
In this procedure torniquet is applied slightly above the affected area and multiple incisions are made by using the sharp instrument and avoiding the vital structures. The incisions are not made very deep, superficial, should not be done transversally and are made very quickly in the upward direction.
Non- Instrumental
Alabu (Blood letting through pitcher guard)
The process is used in aggravated Kapha dosha and pacifies the aggravated Kapha dosha. In this procedure, small incisions are made on skin and after that the pitcher guard made hollow within, creating vacuum pressure by lighting the diya. Now the guard is kept at incised skin through blood is sucked by vacuum pressure, thus doing blood letting.
Jaloka (Leech Therapy)
This is the most important therapy in the raktamokshana and is a commonly followed procedure for blood letting. In aggravated Pitta vitiated rakta dosha this is very helpful as the leeches reside in the cold conditions. Jaloka is very useful in acne and skin disorders, the procedure is used in the patients who are scared from other bloodletting procedures.The saliva of leech contains the chemical Hirudin which is anticoagulant and prevents the blood from coagulation and inhibits the platelet aggregation and increase fluids and blood flow from the affected area. Leech only takes the blood which is vitiated and corrects microcirculation disorders. The therapeutic properties of this procedure are: it is immunostimulating, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and atherosclerotic.
Types of Leech
There are mainly two types of leeches are considered ie. Poisonous and non- poisonous. Poisonous is called Savish and has 6 more types, non- poisonous is known as Nirvish contains 6 types. These types are described in (Sushruta Sutrasthana chapter/13 Sloka 11/12)
Poisonous (Savish Jaloka)
- Krishna
- Karbura
- Algarda
- Indrayudha
- Samudrika
- Gochandana
Non-poisonous (Nirvish Jaloka)
- Kapila
- Pingla
- Shankh Mukhi
- Mushika
- Pundrikmukhi
- Saavrika
Shrunga (Blood Letting Using Cow’s Horn)
In this procedure the selected cow’s horn is collected which is open at both ends, this is mainly used in Vata vitiated rakta. Small and multiple incisions are made over the affected area. The one side of the horn is placed at the incised skin and from the other side suction is created by the mouth which leads to blood letting. This procedure can be compared with cupping therapy.
Conclusion
Hemapheresis is the process used in vitiated blood, as our body grows the blood gets affected by various types of environmental factors and by toxins. In Hemapheresis one or more components are withdrawal to achieve the health of the patient. Vitiated blood causes in many blood disorders ie, Rakta pradosja vikara, in blood disorders it is very important to purify the blood. Ayurveda includes two main therapies ie. Rakta shodhana and Rakta mokshana and the bloodletting therapy by leech is one of the most easy and beneficial procedures in the Rakta mokshana. The procedures which are given in this article only remove the vitiated blood from the body. The herbs which are described here are used to pacify the blood and also provide strength to the immune system and have no side effects.