Comparative Evaluation of Ksheera Dhara and Taila Dhara as Shirodhara in Depression: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Shirodhara is a non-invasive Ayurvedic procedure traditionally used to promote relaxation and psychological balance. The present study was undertaken to compare the therapeutic effects of Brahmi-Jatamanshi Sadhita Godugdha Shirodhara and Ksheerabala Taila Shirodhara in patients of Vishada with reference to depression. Materials and Methods: A randomised comparative clinical study was conducted in the Department of Panchakarma, I.P.G.A.E. & R. at S.V.S.P., Kolkata. Sixty patients fulfilling the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were included and allocated into two groups of 30 patients each. Group A received Shirodhara with Brahmi-Jatamanshi Sadhita Godugdha, while Group B received Shirodhara with Ksheerabala Taila for 14 consecutive days. The therapeutic response was assessed before and after treatment using Modified Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) and Sattva Pariksha. Data were analysed using Student’s paired t-test.