EVALUATION OF KUSHTHADI GHRITA ALONGWITH PANCHBHAUTIKA TAILA PRATIMARSHA NASYA AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN CHILDREN- A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication, and restricted, repetitive behaviors, with onset in early childhood. The rising prevalence of ASD and the limitations of conventional therapies necessitate the exploration of integrative, evidence-based treatment approaches. Ayurveda describes conditions comparable to ASD under Unmada and Vata Vyadhi, attributed to derangement of Dosha affecting Manovaha Srotas and Buddhi.

The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Kushthadi Ghrita orally along with Panchabhautika Taila Pratimarsha Nasya combined with Occupational Therapy, compared to Occupational Therapy alone, in the management of ASD in children aged 3–12 years.

This is an open-label, prospective, randomized controlled trial conducted at the National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur. A total of 30 children diagnosed with ASD (ISAA score >70) will be randomly allocated into two groups: Group A receiving Ayurvedic interventions along with occupational therapy, and Group B receiving occupational therapy alone, for a duration of 12 weeks.

The primary outcome measure is change in the Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA) score, while secondary outcomes include changes in clinical features of ASD as per DSM-V-TR and Ayurvedic parameters. Statistical analysis will be performed using appropriate non-parametric tests.

This study seeks to generate clinical evidence for a holistic, integrative approach combining Ayurvedic therapeutics and occupational therapy, potentially offering a safe, effective, and sustainable management strategy for children with ASD.