SURYA SHIRODHARA
Shirodhara comes from two Sanskrit words “shiro” (head) and “dhara” (flow). It's an Ayurvedic healing technique that involves having someone pour liquid usually oil, milk, buttermilk, or water, onto your forehead. From a brass / earthen / other metals conical shaped vessel.
WHAT IS THE DURATION OF SURYA SHIRODHARA?
A typical Shirodhara session would last 30 to 60 minutes and is done for 3, 7, 14, or 28 days. The duration of a session may vary. The Ayurvedic practitioner determines both the duration and the number of days according to the patient's age, constitution, and dosha status and the severity of the disease. In our case we would be prescribing it’s usage for a period of 30 minutes at one go, which may be repeated on the advice of the Vaidya.
Portability – more portable better for an individual for (1) storage (2) cleaning
Resuability of oil / milk – a system where a one liter storage can be continuously be reused as it gets recycled through a mechanical process. Note min 1 litre tank should be there, however certain expensive oils one may use only 500ml. Makes treatment cost more affordable.
Sturdy material – again ensures no breakages or leakages and hence desireable.
Total cost – Affordability to the consumer is a key attribute for the sale of this product.
The link between ADHD and Shirodhara:
The link is deeply rooted in Ayurvedic principles, specifically the management of the Vata dosha, which is considered the primary biological force behind this condition.
The Ayurvedic Understanding of ADHD
According to the Charaka Samhita, ADHD symptoms arise from a specific disturbance where Vyana-Vayu (the Vayu responsible for motion and extension) is occluded by Prana-Vayu (located in the head and responsible for respiration). This imbalance leads to:
- Diminished function of the senses, brain, and nerves.
- A loss of intelligence, memory, and physical strength.
- Vitiation of Vata dosha, which can simultaneously aggravate Pitta and reduce Kapha, leading to the "clogging" of channels (srotorodha) with toxins (ama).
How Shirodhara Addresses ADHD
Shirodhara—the continuous pouring of medicated liquid on the forehead (Aagyachakra)—acts as a direct therapeutic intervention for these neurological and energetic imbalances.
- Vata Regulation: Shirodhara is specifically indicated for vatavyadhi (Vata-related disorders). The use of medicated oils, such as Mahanarayana Tail, helps calm the aggravated Vata that drives hyperactivity and inattention.
- Neurological Impact: The soothing sensation of the liquid passes through superficial peripheral nerves to the brain, specifically calming the hypothalamus. This regulates the pituitary gland and helps stabilize mood.
- Neurotransmitter Balance: The therapy has been shown to lower elevated levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline while stabilizing serotonin, a neurotransmitter essential for mood and concentration.
- Circulation and Focus: The procedure stimulates vital points on the head, improving blood circulation in the brain. Modern research suggests that children with ADHD often have improper blood perfusion in the brain; the Ushna Virya (heating energy) of the medicated liquids helps improve this circulation.
- Psycho-Somatic Harmony: By inducing a relaxed state of awareness, Shirodhara restores balance between the mind and body, helping the sufferer reach a position of optimal focus and calm.
A Holistic Component
In an Ayurvedic treatment plan, Shirodhara is rarely used alone. It is part of a "ADHD kit" that often includes nervine tonics like Brahmi and Ashwagandha, which provide additional cognitive support and stress resilience. Together with ethical and physical codes of conduct (Sadvritta), Shirodhara helps clear mental "clogging" and restores the natural flow of Vata, leading to improved attention and behavioral control.
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