Effect of Ayurvedic Intervention in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Single Case Observational Study

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and the presence of restricted, repetitive behaviors, leading to significant functional impairment. Existing conventional management approaches often provide limited outcomes, necessitating exploration of complementary treatment modalities. From an Ayurvedic perspective, clinical features of ASD may be correlated with conditions such as Unmada (psychiatric disorder) and Manovikara (mental disorders), predominantly involving imbalance of Vata Dosha. This case study describes a 4-year-old male child diagnosed with ASD based on DSM-5 criteria. The patient was treated with a comprehensive Ayurvedic protocol comprising Shodhana Chikitsa, specifically Basti (medicated enema therapy), along with Shamana Chikitsa (oral herbal formulations), over a period of nine months. Assessment was carried out using a structured symptom severity scale based on DSM-5 domains. Post-intervention findings demonstrated notable improvements in social interaction, communication skills, and behavioral patterns, with a marked reduction in symptom severity scores. The observations from this case suggest that Ayurvedic interventions may have a beneficial role in the management of ASD. However, further research involving larger sample sizes and well-designed controlled studies is necessary to substantiate these findings and to establish evidence-based clinical applicability.