Clinical efficacy of Ashtamangala ghrita in Autism Spectrum disorder w.s.r to Unmad in children -An open labelled single arm clinical study

Autism is a type of neurobiological disorder with key features like impairment in social communication and interaction accompanied by restricted and repetative behaviour .Autism spectrum disorder is the new name of four previously separate disorders. Autism spectrum disorder now encompasses the previous DSM – IV ,Classical autistic disorder i.e Autism , Asperger’s disorder, Childhood disintegrative disorders and Pervasive developmental disorders .In Ayurveda by examining the features of ASD it shows similarities with the symptoms of  Unmad and considering etiopathogenesis involved in ASD, there is need for medications and therapies which focus not only the higher centers of the brain, but the body with mind . Manovaha srotodushti together with Tridosha dushti is the basic cause of childhood autism spectrum disorder. Along with other etiological factors, impaired digestive and metabolic functions are postulated as the root cause of Unmad. accord with the gut brain axis, systemic accumulation of metabolic wastes also disrupts the functional integrity of the brain . Ashtamangala Ghrita is a polyherbal formulation mentioned in Bheshajyaratnavali balrogadhikar chapter ,have medhya properties and can improve memory ,intellect and cognition in children ,drugs like pippali ,sariva ,kushtha helps to maintain normal gut flora ,preventing from gut dysbiosis.The study aimed to determine effect of Ashtamangala Ghrita in reducing symptoms of Autism spectrum disorder, by using Assessment tools like DSM V , ISAA ,and Unmad Samanya lingam.