Ayurvedic Treatment For TOURETTE’S SYNDROME : Symptoms, Causes & Herbal Supplements

ABSTRACT

The nervous system integrates and processes signals, orchestrating responses to environmental changes. Comprising central and peripheral structures, it coordinates sensory perception, motor control, cognition, and behavior. This complex network sustains homeostasis, enabling adaptation, learning, and memory. Its signaling pathways are essential for survival and effective interaction with the world. The dysfunctions in the nervous system can give rise to various disorders, one of which is Tourette’s Syndrome. Tourette's Syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by multiple motor tics and at least one vocal tic. Tourette syndrome affects about 1% of the population, with higher prevalence in children (0.3–1%). It is three to four times more common in males and often decreases in adulthood. Many cases go undiagnosed, especially mild ones. The worldwide prevalence of Tourette’s is 3–4% in children, among the other tic disorders.

INTRODUCTION

Tourette's Syndrome, named after Georges Gilles de la Tourette, a French neurologist, is a condition that affects the nervous system, causing individuals to produce tics. Tics are sudden, repetitive, and involuntary movements or sounds. Tics can be categorized as either motor tics (involving physical movements) or vocal tics (involving sounds). These tics range from simple, brief twitches to complex, coordinated actions. While this is often associated with childhood, its impact can even extend into adulthood, significantly affecting an individual's quality of life. In addition to tics, many individuals with this syndrome also experience other conditions, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety, and depression. The disorder can significantly affect social, emotional, and educational development, leading to challenges such as social isolation, bullying, and academic difficulties.

CAUSES

Tourette’s Syndrome is a multifactorial condition, as it is a combination of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors. While the exact cause remains unknown, several factors play a key role in the disorder's onset:

1. Genetic Factors: Studies have shown that the disorder tends to run in families, indicating a hereditary component.
2. Neurobiological Factors: Dysfunction within the basal ganglia and its connections to other brain regions, such as the frontal cortex, contributes to the tics.
3. Dopamine Dysfunction: Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in motor control, reward processing, and mood regulation. Imbalance in the dopamine levels, particularly an overactivity of dopamine, leads to the development of tics. This theory is supported by the effectiveness of certain dopamine-blocking medications which help reduce the frequency of tics.
4. Infections: Particularly streptococcal throat infections, can lead to sudden onset or worsening of tics, a phenomenon known as Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections (PANDAS).
5. Stress, Anxiety, emotional excitement like public speaking, exams, heightened emotions, etc., can provoke tics.
6. Environmental Sensory Overload: Overstimulation from loud noises, bright lights, or crowded spaces can trigger tics, particularly in individuals with sensory sensitivities.

SYMPTOMS

1. Onset of Tics in Childhood

Tics typically appear between the ages of 5 and 10, and they are often first noticed in the face, such as eye blinking or facial grimacing. The tics may flare up during periods of stress, excitement, or fatigue.

2. Waxing and Waning

Tics often fluctuate over time, with periods of exacerbation and remission. In some cases, tics may improve with age, while in others, they can continue into adulthood.

3. Comorbid Conditions

Such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, or learning disabilities.

4. Social and Emotional Impact

The visible nature of tics can lead to social embarrassment, bullying, and isolation, therefore, individuals may experience anxiety or depression.

TYPES OF TICS

Tics are classified into two main categories

1. Motor Tics : These are movements of the body.
   • Simple Motor Tics : Brief & sudden movements, such as eye blinking, shoulder shrugging, or head jerking, etc.
   • Complex Motor Tics : Coordinated sequences of movements, such as touching objects, facial grimacing, or jumping, etc.
2. Vocal Tics :
   • Simple Vocal Tics : Brief sounds, such as throat clearing, sniffing, or grunting.
   • Complex Vocal Tics: Words or phrases, such as echolalia (repeating others' words), palilalia (repeating one's own words), or coprolalia (involuntary swearing, which is relatively rare).

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosing TS involves a comprehensive evaluation, including:

1. Medical History & Physical Examination: A detailed history of the individual's symptoms, including the onset, frequency, and type of tics. It is important to rule out other causes of tics, such as medication side effects or other neurological disorders.
2. CT scan, MRI of brain: To rule out any other condition.
3. Neurological Examination: To assess motor function and reflexes.
4. Diagnostic Criteria: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), provides specific criteria for diagnosing TS. Here the motor tics should be multiple along with one vocal tic. Tics should begin before the age of 18 years and should last for more than a year.

TREATMENT

There is no permanent cure for Tourette's Syndrome, but several treatment options can help manage symptoms:

1. Behavioral Therapy:
   • Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT): A type of therapy that helps individuals become more aware of their tics and develop strategies to manage them.
   • Habit reversal training (HRT): It involves increasing awareness of tics and teaching strategies to replace them with more socially acceptable behaviors.
2. Medications: Medications may be prescribed to help control tics, including:
   • Dopamine-blocking agents
   • Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists
   • Antidepressants
3. Deep Brain Stimulation: It is advised in severe TS where the patient doesn't respond to medication, deep brain stimulation (DBS) can be considered. DBS involves implanting electrodes in the brain to regulate abnormal neural activity.

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW

In ayurveda, there is no direct correlation of Tourette’s syndrome, but it can be understood as the disease developed due to the vitiation of the vata dosha. Our nervous system is regulated by vata dosha. The imbalanced vata dosha also involves our Manovaha srotas. The factors like Alpa Satva (low mental strength), Bhaya (fear), chronic stress, bad dietary choices can act as a trigger and lead to the manifestation of tourette’s in childhood. The aggravated Vata dosha can lead to the over-stimulation of the nervous system, causing the involuntary movements called tics.

When the Manovaha Srotas gets vitiated due to vata dosha, it can result in increased anxiety, impulsivity, and emotional instability. This also heightens restlessness, further intensifying the severity and frequency of tics.

There are various Panchakarma procedures and medications which are beneficial for managing Tourette's syndrome. Procedures like shirodhara (pouring medicated oil on head), shiropichu (a cotton pad dipped in medicated oil is placed on head), shirobasti (a pool of medicated oil is made over head) etc. are advised to balance the vata dosha. Medicines like Balaarishtam, Dhanwantharam Gulika, Kalyanak Ghrita, Sidharthak Ghrita, Vachadi Ghrita, Saraswatarisht, etc. are advised.

AYURVEDIC HERBS BENEFICIAL IN TOURETTE’S SYNDROME

1. Ashwagandha / Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha has Katu (bitter), Tikta (pungent), and Kashaya (astringent) tastes, along with Snigdha (nourishing) yet Laghu (light) qualities and Ushna Veerya (heating potency). It helps balance Vata and Kapha doshas, alleviating stress, fatigue, and inflammation while enhancing vitality and endurance. Its neuroprotective effects may benefit Tourette’s syndrome by regulating neurotransmitters and reducing stress-induced tics. Additionally, it helps reduce inflammation and strengthen immunity.

2. Tagara / Valeriana wallichii

Tagara is a well-known herb for addressing sleep-related issues. Being a rich source of melatonin, it is commonly used alongside other formulations to regulate the circadian rhythm. By modulating neurotransmitters that facilitate communication between brain neurons, it induces a calming effect on the mind. This action helps suppress excessive neural activity, thereby promoting restful sleep. It is beneficial for soothing the central nervous system, enhancing cognitive functions, and improving mental clarity. Classical texts highlight its therapeutic use in conditions such as Bhuta (psychiatric disorders), Mada (intoxication), and Apasmara (epilepsy).

3. Brahmi / Bacopa monnieri

Brahmi is highly regarded for its ability to enhance cognitive function, memory, and intelligence. It helps in balancing Vata and Pitta doshas. The herb has Tikta (bitter) and Kashaya (astringent) tastes, Laghu (light) attributes, a Sheeta veerya (cooling potency), and undergoes Madhura vipaka (sweet metabolic conversion after digestion). Known for its Medhya prabhava (brain-boosting effects), Brahmi is a natural source of melatonin, aiding in relaxation. It calms the nervous system and blood vessels, thereby reducing blood pressure. Traditionally classified as a "Vayasthapana" herb, it promotes longevity and well-being, while its "Unmada Vinashini" properties make it beneficial in managing psychiatric disorders.

4. Shankhpushpi / Convolvulus pluricaulis

Shankhpushpi helps in balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas. It holds a unique prabhava (special effect) of being "Medhya," which signifies its role in boosting intelligence and memory. Traditionally, it has been utilized in treating neurological imbalances. As a neuroprotective herb, it is recognized as "Manasarogahrut" (beneficial for mental disorders), "Unmada" (effective in psychiatric conditions), and "Apasmara" (useful in epilepsy). Also, it is known as "Smritiprada," which enhances memory, and has Rasayanic properties that contribute to overall health and longevity.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR TOURETTE’S SYNDROME BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda provides a combination of ayurvedic herbs for the management of Tourette's Syndrome. The medicines beneficial in Tourette's Syndrome are Neurogenie capsules, Medhya Churna, Neuroplan syrup, Brahmi Ghrit, and Stress Support Capsules. All the Planet Ayurveda medicines are 100 % natural, vegetarian, additive free, chemical & preservative free and without any side effects. With Ayurvedic intervention, Tourette's Syndrome can be managed efficiently and thus, increasing the quality of life.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. Neurogenie Capsules

These capsules are prepared from the standardised extract of the ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and brahmi (Bacopa monneri). Ashwagandha helps in reducing stress, improving memory, boosting focus, and protecting brain cells from the oxidative stress. Brahmi enhances memory, increases concentration, supports learning, and promotes mental clarity. Both these herbs together help in improving brain function, reducing anxiety, and support complete brain health.

DOSAGE: 1 capsule twice a day

2. Medhya Churna

This churna is formulated using standardized extracts of potent Ayurvedic herbs, including Vacha (Acorus calamus), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Ajmoda (Carum roxburghianum), Shweta Jeerak (Cuminum cyminum), Krishna Jeerak (Carum carvi), Sunthi (Zingiber officinale), Maricha (Piper nigrum), Pippali (Piper longum), Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). The main ingredient Vacha in this churna is known for its medhya prabhav (special action on intellect), which helps in enhancing memory and cognitive function. This churna maintains the balance of both Kapha and Pitta doshas, promoting mental clarity, boosting memory, reducing anxiety, and improving confidence.

DOSAGE: ¼ tsp twice a day with warm milk and scrub over the tongue too

3. Neuroplan Syrup

This syrup is prepared using the standardised extract derived from the various intellect improving herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monneri), Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Jyotishmati (Celastrus paniculatus), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Bhojpatra (Betula utilis), Yashtimadhu (Glycorrhiza glabra) and Trikatu (Three bitters). This syrup is sweetened with natural organic honey. Brahmi, Mandukaparni, and Shankhpushpi support cognitive function, reduce stress, and enhance neurotransmitter activity, potentially improving focus and reducing tics. Jyotishmati and Ashwagandha aid in calming the nervous system, reducing anxiety, and promoting emotional stability. Bhojpatra and Yashtimadhu have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties that may support brain health, while Trikatu enhances absorption of these herbs. This syrup helps in regulating nervous system imbalances, reduces involuntary movements, and supports mental well-being in individuals with Tourette’s.

DOSAGE: 2 tsp twice a day

4. Brahmi Ghrit

This ghrita is prepared using the pure cow’s ghee and the standardised extract of the herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monneri), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Kutha (Saussurea lappa), and Shankhpushi (Convolvulus pluricaulis). These herbs possess neuroprotective and calming properties that help regulate excessive nerve impulses, potentially reducing motor and vocal tics. Brahmi and Shankhpushpi enhance cognitive function, focus, and memory, while Vacha supports nervous system stability. Also, this Ghrita helps in balancing Vata Dosha, which is often linked to Tourette’s syndrome.

DOSAGE: 1 tsp twice a day with warm water

5. Stress Support Capsules

These capsules are formulated using standardized extracts of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Tagara (Valeriana wallichii), and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). These herbs naturally support the regulation of neurotransmitters and are rich in melatonin, which aids in relaxing the nervous system, improving sleep patterns, and reducing stress-related symptoms. In Tourette’s Syndrome, these capsules help by stabilizing excessive nerve activity, minimizing involuntary movements (tics), and promoting mental calmness. These properties also help in managing emotional imbalances, anxiety, and hyperactivity, making them beneficial for overall neurological well-being.

DOSAGE: 1 capsule twice a day

CONCLUSION

Tourette's Syndrome is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with significant social and emotional implications. Though its exact cause remains unclear, research points to a combination of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors. Understanding the nature of tics and their triggers is essential for managing the condition effectively. Conventional treatment options, including behavioral therapy, and medications can help reduce tic severity and improve quality of life. In addition, Ayurvedic remedies offer a complementary approach to managing Tourette’s, particularly in terms of stress management and brain health. A holistic approach that combines both conventional and alternative therapies may offer the most effective means of managing Tourette’s Syndrome and improving the lives of those affected.

Ayuvedic Treatment for Xerostomia – Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Herbal Supplements

ABSTRACT

Saliva is a vital bodily fluid made by the salivary gland, i.e., the parotid gland, the submandibular gland, and the sublingual gland. In adults, salivary glands make up about 0.5 - 1.5 liters. Saliva helps in various functions like speech, digestion, protects the gums and enamel, strengthens the tooth enamel, washes away the debris, helps in speech, and enhances the taste. Some diseases affect saliva production, such as AIDS, and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's disease can make salivary glands inflamed and painful.

INTRODUCTION

In this article, we are going to talk about a disease called Xerostomia, in which salivary glands do not produce enough saliva, also known as Dry Mouth. Saliva flow is decreased by 50-60%. It is more common in women than men, elderly people (more common in people over 65 years of age), and people with certain medical conditions. When affected, there is dryness in the mouth, bad breath, thick saliva, and soreness.

CAUSES

The causes of Xerostomia are

1. SMOKING : Habits like chronic smoking and chewing tobacco lead to dry mouth.
2. MEDICATIONS : A dry mouth is a common side effect of prescribed medications like antihistamines, decongestants, and some muscle relaxants. Old people are more prone to dry mouth.
3. ANXIETY : When the person experiences stress or anxiety, or the body activates fight or flight which suppresses the saliva production by salivary glands resulting in a dry mouth.
4. DEHYDRATION : Conditions that lead to dehydration are high fever, vomiting, excessive sweating, diarrhea, blood loss, and burns can lead to dry mouth.
5. SOME MEDICAL TREATMENTS : Damage to the salivary glands can affect saliva production. It can be done during radiation to the head or neck, or chemotherapy for cancer patients.
6. NERVE DAMAGE : A dry mouth can be the result of nerve damage during the surgery or injury.
7. SALIVARY GLAND PROBLEMS : Surgical removal of salivary glands can lead to a dry mouth.
8. SPICY FOOD : Eating a lot of spicy food also hampers saliva production which may also lead to dry mouth in severe cases.
9. SJOGREN DISEASE : In Sjogren's disease, there is chronic lymphocytic infiltration and inflammation of acinar cells resulting in gland damage which initiates the dry mouth.

SYMPTOMS

Here are the symptoms of Xerostomia

1. Dryness in the mouth for a long time
2. The patient might have bad breath due to less saliva production
3. A dry or grooved tongue can be seen in the patient
4. A burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, especially on the tongue
5. The patient may have problems while chewing, swallowing, and tasting
6. The tongue appears to be dry, red, and raw
7. There is a classical sign of the tongue, the “Cobblestone” appearance of the tongue
8. Frequent thirst

DIAGNOSIS

The clinical examination may include

1. Fissured tongue and lips can be seen.
2. Lack of saliva on the floor of the mouth.
3. A biopsy of the salivary glands can be done.
4. Sialography, which is 3D imaging of the salivary glands, can also be done to check for any mass or stone in the salivary gland.
5. Sialometry in which saliva flow rate is checked and which should be around 1.5–2.0 ml/min, but if it is around 0.5–0.7 ml/min or less than 0.1 ml/min, then it can be hyposalivation leading to xerostomia.

TREATMENT

Managing xerostomia involves a combination of oral hygiene practices, hydration, and medical treatments to restore moisture

1. The patient can stay properly hydrated by drinking lots of water.
2. By avoiding certain foods and drinks that cause dry mouth.
3. The patient can be suggested to use a saliva substitute such as carboxymethylcellulose, xylitol, or hydroxyethylcellulose.
4. The patients can be recommended to use fluoridated kinds of toothpaste and gels.
5. Avoid breathing through the mouth.
6. Avoid alcohol or tobacco consumption.

COMPLICATIONS

There can be complications when xerostomia is not managed on time

1. Candidiasis
2. Dental Caries
3. Angular Cheilitis
4. Sialadenitis
5. Dysphagia
6. Mouth Ulcerations
7. Gum Disease

HOME REMEDIES FOR XEROSTOMIA

Here are some home remedies for Xerostomia

1. Cardamom

It should be eaten after meals or at other times. It not only keeps away bad breath but also helps in saliva production. Another thing is that you can also drink cardamom tea or cardamom-infused water which has the properties to stimulate saliva production. This can provide relief from the discomfort of dry mouth.

2. Ginger

Ginger is a natural sialagogue, it can stimulate the salivary gland to produce more saliva. Some ways to use ginger for a dry mouth like chewing on raw ginger, ginger tea, and ginger spray. It shouldn't be used in excess as it produces heat in the body.

3. Aloe Vera

It is rich in antioxidants and a natural hydrating substance. It not only works on the dry mouth but also protects the tissue of the mouth. The patient can drink a quarter cup of half aloe vera juice once every day. Do not swallow the pulp just rinse it after keeping it in the mouth for a few minutes.

4. Hydration

Water has health benefits. Drinking water not only hydrates oral tissues but also lips, throat, and gums.

5. Lemon

Lemon has citric acid in it, which helps in the production of saliva by the salivary glands. This can provide relief from the discomfort of dry mouth. Here are some ways to use lemon for dry mouth. You can cut the lemon into two halves and suck it 1–3 times a day or drink the lemon tea or lemon water. Don’t use lemon in excess, as it has citric acid and can erode the tooth.

6. Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds have metabolites and flavonoids that stimulate saliva production and control bad breath. You can chew the fennel seeds after a meal.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR XEROSTOMIA BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda is a company that has GMP CERTIFIED, HACCP CERTIFIED, HALAL CERTIFIED, ISO CERTIFIED, and many more certifications. They make products not only for humans but for pets as well under the supervision of MD Practitioners. They make products that are 100% natural and have no side effects. These products do not contain any kind of synthetic materials or preservatives. These products help in managing various health problems.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. GUM CARE POWDER

This powder contains natural herbs like Sonthi ( Zingiber Officinale), Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), Mustak (Cyperus rotundus), Pong (Areca Catechu), and many other herbs. Its herbal ingredients, like Neem, Clove, and Peelu, possess antibacterial and soothing properties, which can help maintain oral hygiene, reduce irritation, and stimulate salivation.

Method of Application : This powder is gently massaged on teeth and gums with 3-6 grams.

2. ACIDO PLAN SYRUP

This syrup contains herbs like Patola (Trichosanthes Dioica), Saunf (Foeniculum Vulgare), Triphala (Terminalia Chebula), Kokum (Garcinia Indica), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Ghrit Kumari (Aloe Barbadensis), and Sajjikshar (Soda-Bi-Carb). Ingredients like Saunf (fennel), Ajwain, and Lemon if(Nimbu Satva) may stimulate salivary glands mildly, which may indirectly help manage dryness in the mouth.

Dosage : Take 1-2 teaspoons of syrup twice a day daily.

3. NEURO PLAN SYRUP

This syrup contains herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri), Mandukaparni (Centella Asiatica), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus Pluricaulis), Sonth (Zingiber Officinale), Maricha (Piper Nigrum), Pippali (Piper Logum), and Bhojpatra (Betula utilis), and so on. Its mild cooling and moisturizing effects soothe oral dryness naturally and help increase salivary secretion

Dosage : Take 1-2 teaspoons of syrup twice a day daily.

4. CHITRAKADI VATI

It contains herbs like Piper Nigrum, Piper Longum, Piper Longum Root, Zingiber Officinale, Piper Chaba, and Ferula Asafoetida processed in pomegranate juice. Chitrakadi Vati helps in activating salivary gland secretions and improving overall fluid metabolism, thereby supporting natural moisture in the oral cavity.

Dosage : Take 1-2 tablets twice or thrice a day, daily with lukewarm water.

CONCLUSION

Everything considered, as a whole, Xerostomia or dry mouth can be seen in older people and is more commonly seen in women. It can be caused due to dehydration, anxiety, certain medications, smoking, nerve damage, or a patient undergoing radiation therapy. Its complications can vary from patient to patient and cause. At home, different remedies can be done, like chewing cardamom, ginger, or lemon, and so on. Clinically, it can be diagnosed by visual examination, sialography, and sialometry. At Planet Ayurveda, Xerostomia can be managed by using herbal remedies like Gum Care Powder, Acido Plan Syrup, Neuro Plan Syrup, and Chitrakadi Vati. For details, you can visit www.PlanetAyurveda.com