A comparative study of Shiroabhyang and Karnabhyang in the management of Nidranash (primary insomnia)

Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder an d one of those with the greatest health and social significance. About 10% and 30% of adults have insomnia at any given point in time. It is of two types Primary and secondary insomnia. Primary insomnia is sleeplessness or the perception of poor quality sleep that cannot be attributed to a medical, psychiatric, or environmental cause. It is mainly due to long lasting stress and strain. Ayurveda has mentioned many treatments for Nidranash. Aim: to compare the efficacy of Shiroabhyang and Karnabhyang in the management of Nidranash (Primary insomnia). Materials and Methods: Clinical study was done on 60 diagnosed patients with Primary insomnia of age group 30 to 40 ye ar and divided in two groups. Group A had been treated with Shiroabhyanga and Group B with Karnabhyang for one month. Tila taila was common in both the group. Assessment parameters was Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scale with 15 self rated questions and 7 components. Result: Statistical Analysis of the Result by Wilcoxon – Matched – Pairs Signed – Ranks test of PSQI scale component in both GROUP A and GROUP B was extremely significant with p value <0.0001. By applying Mann -Whitney Test there was no significant difference found between Group A & Group B in all symptoms with P value is >0.05. Conclusion: It was observed that both the therapies (Shiroabhyanga and Karnabhyanga) are effective in the management of Primary insomnia