Issue : 02 DOI :

INTERNATIONAL

JOURNAL

DIAGNOSTICS

AND

RESEARCH

Volume : 02

Abstract

Shirodhara, an Ayurvedic therapy involving the continuous pouring of medicated liquids over the

forehead, is recognized for its calming and neuroprotective effects. Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a

neurodegenerative disorder, is characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral

disturbances. Current treatments for AD are largely symptomatic and insufficient to reverse the

disease progression. This article explores the mechanisms through which Shirodhara may alleviate

AD symptoms by integrating Ayurvedic principles and modern biomedical insights. The therapy’s

effects on stress reduction, neuroprotection, and cognitive enhancement are reviewed to establish its

potential as an adjunctive therapy for AD.

Keywords: Shirodhara, Alzheimer’s disease, Ayurveda, Panchakarma, neuroprotection, cognitive

decline

Corresponding author: Dr.Mamta Madrewar

Article Info: Published on : 15/01/2025

ISSN No. : 2584-2757

Volume : 02

Issue : 02

Publisher

ROGANIDAN VIKRUTIVIGYAN PG ASSOCIATION

FOR PATHOLOGY AND RADIODIGNOSIS

DOI

: 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 4 6 4 9 8 7 3

Reg. No. : MAHA-703/16(NAG)

Year of Establishment – 2016

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH

A Review of Shirodhara in Alzheimer’s Disease: Integrating Ayurvedic and

Modern Perspectives

Dr.Mamta Madrewar

, Dr.Supriya Madrewar

Assistant Professor , Panchakarma Department, Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan's Ayurved College, Pusad.

Assistant

Professor , Rognidan Department, DMM Ayurved Mahavidylaya, Yawatmal..

Cite this article as: - Dr.Mamta Madrewar (2025) ; A Review of Shirodhara in Alzheimer’s Disease: Integrating Ayurvedic and

Modern Perspectives ; Inter.J.Dignostics and Research 2 (2) 25-29, DOI: 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 4 6 4 9 8 7 3

Introduction:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) affects over 50 million

individuals globally, with its prevalence projected

totriple by 2050

[1]

. The disease is characterized by

amyloid-beta plaque accumulation, tau protein tangles,

oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation, leading to

progressive cognitive decline. Conventional

treatments, including acetylcholinesterase inhibitors

and NMDA receptor antagonists, provide symptomatic

relief but fail to alter disease progression

[2]

. In

Ayurveda, AD correlates with Smritibhransh (memory

loss) and Buddhi Vibhransh (intellectual impairment),

often attributed to vitiation of Vata dosha. Shirodhara,

a key Panchakarma therapy, calms the mind and

nourishes the nervous system, potentially addressing

the multifaceted etiology of AD

[3]

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]

Volume : 02

Aim and Objectives :

Aim: To analyze the role of Shirodhara in alleviating

symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease through Ayurvedic

and modern perspectives.

Objectives:

1. To understand the Ayurvedic concepts of

neurodegenerative disorders and their correlation

with AD.

2. To explore the mechanisms of Shirodhara in

managing stress and enhancing cognition.

3. To evaluate existing clinical and preclinical

evidence supporting Shirodhara’s efficacy in

neurological disorders.

Methodology :

A systematic review of classical Ayurvedic texts

(Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga

Hridaya) and modern biomedical literature (PubMed,

Scopus) was conducted. Relevant studies were

included based on their focus on Shirodhara’s effects

on cognitive function, stress management, and

neuroprotection. The review incorporates findings

from clinical trials, observational studies, and

traditional texts.

Discussion :

Mode of Action of Shirodhara :

Ayurvedic Perspective : Shirodhara primarily

pacifies aggravated Vata dosha, which governs the

nervous system. By calming Prana Vayu and Sadhaka

Pitta (sub-Doshas responsible for mental functions), it

restores the equilibrium necessary for cognitive

processes

[5]

. The use of medicated oils (Taila) like

Brahmi Taila and Kshirabala Taila nourishes the

brain (Majja Dhatu) and promotes Ojas (vital energy),

which is crucial for mental stability

[6]

Modern Perspective :

1. Neurocalming Effects: Shirodhara activates the

parasympathetic nervous system, inducing a

relaxation response. This reduces cortisol levels

and mitigates chronic stress, a key factor

exacerbating AD

[7]

2. Improved Cerebral Blood Flow: The therapy

enhances cerebral circulation, facilitating the

removal of amyloid-beta plaques and improving

neuronal oxygenation.

[8]

3. Regulation of Sleep-Wake Cycle: The rhythmic

stimulation of the forehead modulates the

hypothalamus and pineal gland, promoting better

sleep, which is often impaired in AD

[9]

Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Properties:

Oils used in Shirodhara, like Brahmi oil, are rich

in antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress and

support synaptic plasticity.

[10]

Shirodhara in Alzheimer’s Disease :

 Stress Reduction :Chronic stress accelerates

hippocampal atrophy, a hallmark of AD

[11]

Shirodhara’s calming effects reduce stress by

lowering cortisol and promoting a relaxed

state

[12]

 Cognitive Enhancement : Studies have shown

that Shirodhara improves memory, attention, and

executive functions. Ayurvedic oils enhance

neurotransmitter activity and repair synaptic

connections

[13]

 Neuroprotection: The antioxidant properties of

oils used in Shirodhara combat oxidative stress, a

significant contributor to neuronal damage in

AD.

[14]

Brahmi oil, in particular, has shown

efficacy in enhancing cognitive performance in

preclinical models

[15]

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]

Volume : 02

Shirodhara, a traditional Ayurvedic therapeutic

technique, has shown significant potential in

managing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by addressing the

neurophysiological imbalances that contribute to

cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s disease is often

associated with an accumulation of beta-amyloid

plaques, tau protein tangles, oxidative stress, and

neuroinflammation. While modern medicine focuses

primarily on pharmacological interventions, Ayurvedic

therapies such as Shirodhara offer a holistic approach

to enhancing brain health, improving cognitive

function, and alleviating the associated stress and

anxiety in Alzheimer’s patients.

Shirodhara’s mechanism of action includes the

promotion of relaxation through its calming effects on

the nervous system. It balances the Doshas,

particularly Vata and Pitta, which are often implicated

in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. By

improving circulation to the brain and reducing

anxiety, Shirodhara helps to modulate the autonomic

nervous system, reducing the harmful effects of

chronic stress and promoting a state of mental calm

and clarity. Studies have shown that regular

Shirodhara sessions can have a positive impact on

cognitive function, particularly by improving memory

and reducing agitation in Alzheimer’s patients.

[16,17,18]

The role of Ayurvedic oils, such as Brahmi oil and

Kshirabala oil, further enhances the effects of

Shirodhara. Brahmi oil, known for its cognitive-

enhancing properties, helps to improve

neurotransmitter function, particularly acetylcholine,

which is crucial for memory and learning. Kshirabala

oil has neuroprotective effects, reducing oxidative

stress and supporting neuronal regeneration. Both oils

are often used in conjunction with Shirodhara to

provide comprehensive care for Alzheimer’s patients,

addressing both the root causes and the symptoms of

cognitive dedecline.

[19,20,21]

Additionally, studies

suggest that the combined use of Ayurvedic

treatments, including Shirodhara, may enhance

neuroplasticity and reduce neuroinflammation, which

are critical in managing Alzheimer’s disease. The

therapeutic approach offered by Ayurveda is

individualized, focusing on the patient’s Dosha and

constitutional imbalance, which adds to the

effectiveness of these treatments.

[22,23]

Overall, while further clinical studies are needed to

establish definitive outcomes, the integration of

Shirodhara with Ayurvedic oils shows promise as a

complementary approach in managing Alzheimer’s

disease, offering patients relief from cognitive decline

and improving quality of life.

[24,25]

While the therapeutic potential of Shirodhara is

promising, robust randomized controlled trials (RCTs)

are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in AD.

Standardization of protocols, including the type of

oils, duration, and frequency of therapy, is essential.

Future research should also explore the integration of

Shirodhara with conventional treatments.

Conclusion :

Shirodhara presents a holistic, complementary

approach for managing Alzheimer’s disease, aligning

ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern neuroscience.

Its ability to reduce stress, enhance cognition, and

protect neuronal health makes it a valuable addition to

current therapeutic strategies. Further studies are

warranted to unlock its full potential and establish its

role in mainstream healthcare.

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3. Sharma PV. Charaka Samhita. Varanasi:

Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2010. Sutrasthana

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Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2008.

Sutrasthana 21/10, p. 54.

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ISSN: 2584-2757

DOI : 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 4 6 4 9 8 7 3

Dr. Mamta Madrewar Inter. J.Digno. and Research

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