An assessment of Manasika Bhavas in menopausal syndrome and its management

The present clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Shirodhara and Saraswatarishta as compared to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in the management of menopausal syndrome, along with the assessment of Manasika Bhavas. The subjects were randomly divided into three groups. A total 48 patients were selected for the study, out of which 43 patients completed the study. Specialized Ayurvedic rating scales like Manasa Pariksha Bhavas as well as the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, Hamilton Depression Rating scale, and Menopause Rating Scale were adopted to assess the effect of therapy. The effects were examined on the chief complaints as well as the associated complaints. Patients undergoing Shirodhara had better relief of the disturbances of Manasa Bhavas and psychic symptoms of menopause as compared to the other two groups. Saraswatarishta also showed encouraging results in managing the associated somatic symptoms and the psychic symptoms. Hence, we conclude that it can be used as an alternative therapy to HRT.