Learn how Ayurveda can improve mental health, emotional balance, and clearer thinking using herbal remedies like ashwagandha and brahmi.
As World Ayurveda Day 2025 approaches, we need to think about how chasing our dreams and goals impacts our mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression, experienced by many people, are now common problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports an alarming 25% increase in mental health disorders around the world, showing we need to act quickly. In response to this crisis, 90% of countries surveyed have included aid in their COVID-19 recovery plans. There continues to be a lack of mental health resources and support systems. This shows how Ayurveda can enhance well-being and build resilience during difficult times.
Ayurveda for mental health
“The information about the impact of COVID-19 on global mental health is a wake-up call for all countries to do better to support the mental health of their populations,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros. This World Ayurveda Day, let’s focus on the healing practices of Ayurveda. They help keep our minds healthy and create a balanced life.
- The Lancet report, conducted by the University of Queensland and IHME, said anxiety disorders had increased from 13.8 per cent to 25.6 per cent. In contrast, India’s increase is between 23.7% and 35%, which is a cause for concern. Increased health problems such as sleep disturbances, weakened immunity, heart disease, and diabetes.
- The National Medical Journal of India report also notes that anxiety disorders often coexist with other conditions, such as depression, further complicating the situation and potentially requiring a more comprehensive treatment approach.
Ayurvedic expert Dr. Manasi Maurya told Healthshot, “Traditional remedies and sedatives may relieve symptoms, but long-term use comes with many side effects that induce drowsiness, dependence, mental disorders, and withdrawal symptoms. With long-term use, they become less effective and require higher doses, resulting in additional side effects in the body. That’s why it’s necessary to choose herbal, natural, and safe solutions.” These natural and sustainable solutions can help boost your mental well-being without causing any harm. ”
Which dosha causes mental problems?
Ayurveda, India’s ancient healing art, offers a holistic approach to mental health based on the mind-body connection. According to the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences (JAIMS), it involves balancing the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha to achieve mental and emotional equilibrium. Mental imbalances are usually caused by increased vata (restlessness, anxiety) and pitta (anger, excitement). Ayurveda holds the view that balance can be restored and overall well-being achieved through a combination of herbs, yoga, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.
Some Ayurvedic herbs are known to play an important role in promoting mental health. Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Shankhushpi are available in powder, capsule, and tea forms and can be taken with warm milk, ghee, and honey to enhance absorption. These herbs collectively relieve stress, improve mental function, and increase overall emotional well-being in the long term, providing an excellent natural remedy for mental health.
Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Shankhushpi, etc. are great adaptogens and promote mental well-being.
- Shankhushpi balances Vata and Pitta, increases serotonin and dopamine, increases blood flow to the brain, and naturally improves mood and cognitive function.
- According to the Journal of Herbal Medicine, ashwagandha lowers cortisol, reduces stress, promotes emotional balance, and calms the nervous system.
- A study published in the Journal of Frontiers in Pharmacology found that Brahmi reduces anxiety while increasing memory, concentration, and neurogenesis.
“A balanced lifestyle, including a healthy diet, adequate rest, awareness, and regular exercise, strengthens people’s behavior. These herbs naturally reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve mental function and emotional balance. Backed by the latest science. , Ayurveda-based herbs offer a sustainable solution to mental well-being.By merging Ayurveda, yoga, and the wisdom of healthy living, individuals can achieve sustainable mental health.”
Yoga and Ayurvedic Mental Health Care
It states that yoga is important in Ayurvedic mental health care. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medical Sciences (JAIMS). Helps reduce the need for antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications.. Asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation balance the nervous system, reduce cortisol levels, and promote emotional balance. Practicing yoga regularly can increase your mindfulness, concentration, and resilience, and support stress management. The combination of Ayurvedic herbs and yoga provides a robust, natural and sustainable solution to mental health.
