Abstract

EXPLORING THE ANXIOLYTIC POTENTIAL OF SHANKHPUSHPI AND TULSI: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF CHITTODVEGA (EXAM STRESS)

Dr. Vivek Sagar*, Dr. Shubham Sadh, Dr. Gracy Sokiya

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Abstract

Anxiety or Stress i.e. Chittodvega is mentioned in Manasika Vikaras.[1] The word Chittodvega is made up of two words i.e. Chitta means Mind and Udvega refers to Anxious. Chittodvega refers to state of anxiety, fear and agitation.[2] Stress has become a common problem among the student’s community. Examinations are the important milestones in the academic life of the students. Based on the examination results further career of the students are decided but it is affecting the performance which may affect the academic career of the students. Charaka also mentioned the use of Medhya Rasayana in Manas Rogas, such as Unmad and Apsmar, and it is one of the treatment principles of Chittodvega. Shankhpushpi, Yashtimadhu, Brahmi, and Guduchi are the four herbs that Acharya Charaka described under Medhya Rasayana. Hence, the study suggest Shankhpushpi is advantageous in Manasa Vikaras (Chittodvega). Leaves of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) are regarded as an 'adaptogen' or anti-stress agent in studies. Recent studies have shown that the leaves afford significant protection against stress.[3]

Keywords: Chittodvega, Shankhpushpi, Tulsi, Exam stress, Medhya Rasayana, Anxiety.