Studyof Medhya Effect Of Brahmi (Baccopa Monneri Linn.) In Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Number of medicinal plants is being used for the treatment of various Psychiatric & Psychosomatic disorders. In current era, percentage of behavioral disorders are alarmingly increasing. Oppositional Defiant Disorder is one of the behavioral disorders of children, which hampers scholastic performance of the child. According to the epidemiological survey, the prevalence of Oppositional Defiant Disorder is 6% in America. It is more common among children from lower socio economic status (SES) families. If we consider the therapeutic measures for this, modern psychology relies upon behavioral therapy & educational intervention. The medication therapy is yet to be established with concrete base.Considering above, Rasayana dravyas becomes more important as far as medical interventions for this problem is concerned. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri Linn.) is the Medhya Rasayana Drugs stated by Bhavaprakash Nihantu which is widely used in various diseases related to Manas eg. Unmada, Apasmara etc. In the context of Ayurveda as far as Oppositional Defiant Disorder is concerned, Manas, Vayu (Prana & Udana) & Sadhak pitta are most important factors. Hence in Oppositional Defiant Disorder a Rasayana which normalizes the functions of above doshas & Mana is required. Brahmi pacifies the aggravated doshas especially Vata & Pitta, so Brahmi is selected for the present study. A prospective randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 40 patients of Oppositional Defiant Disorder of school age group of 9-11 years. The subjects fulfilling the criteria of selection were enrolled into the study after obtaining ICF. The criteria of assessment were Reduction in the gradation of defiant behavior as per CRF, Reduction in the score of Junior Eyesnck Personality Questionnaire, Effect on Mental Functions etc..