Real Patients Real Relief: Clinical Study in Efficacy of Shirodhara in Insomnia
- By CGH EARTH
- Case Studies
- 30 June 2026
Comparative Study of Ksheerabala Taila vs Brahmi Taila
Study Type
Outcome-based Comparative Clinical Study
Objective
To evaluate and compare the efficacy of Shirodhara using Ksheerabala Taila and Brahmi Taila in Insomnia (Anidra) using structured clinical outcome parameters including ISI scoring, as per AYUSH & NABH clinical audit guidelines.
Reference Guidelines
1. NABH Standards – Care of Patients (COP)
2. AYUSH Clinical Audit Guidelines
3. Ashtanga Hridaya & Charaka Samhita
4. Hospital SOP – Shirodhara
2. AYUSH Clinical Audit Guidelines
3. Ashtanga Hridaya & Charaka Samhita
4. Hospital SOP – Shirodhara
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Sample Size: 10 patients Group A : Ksheerabala Taila Shirodhara 5 patients Group B: Brahmi Taila Shirodhara 5 patients |
Treatment Protocol:
30 minutes/day x 7 days Audit Period: 01-12-2025 to 31-01-2026 |
Clinical Outcome Parameters
1. Insomnia Severity Index (ISI)
2. Sleep onset latency (minutes)
3. Total sleep duration (hours)
4. Frequency of night awakenings
5. Daytime fatigue
6. Patient-reported sleep satisfaction
2. Sleep onset latency (minutes)
3. Total sleep duration (hours)
4. Frequency of night awakenings
5. Daytime fatigue
6. Patient-reported sleep satisfaction
Process Parameters
1. Diagnosis & indication documented
2. Consent obtained
3. SOP adherence
4. Duration & temperature maintained
5. Post-procedure advice documented
2. Consent obtained
3. SOP adherence
4. Duration & temperature maintained
5. Post-procedure advice documented
Safety Parameters
1. Vitals monitored
2. Adverse events recorded
2. Adverse events recorded
ISI Scoring System & Interpretation
0–7: No insomnia
8–14: Mild insomnia
15–21: Moderate insomnia
22–28: Severe insomnia
8–14: Mild insomnia
15–21: Moderate insomnia
22–28: Severe insomnia
Group-wise Analysis
Group A (Ksheerabala Taila)
Average ISI reduction: 8.8
Overall improvement: ~75%
Group B (Brahmi Taila)
Average ISI reduction: 12.2
Moderate —> Mild/Near normal
Overall improvement: ~85%
Average ISI reduction: 12.2
Moderate —> Mild/Near normal
Overall improvement: ~85%
Safety
No major adverse events.
Mild head heaviness in one patient resolved.
Mild head heaviness in one patient resolved.
Gaps
Incomplete daily outcome recording in a few files.
Re-audit & Conclusion
Re-audit after 6 months.
Target outcome compliance ≥90%.
Target outcome compliance ≥90%.
Conclusion
Both interventions effective in insomnia.
Brahmi Taila Shirodhara showed superior outcome across parameters.
Prepared By: Dr. Sethudath D Das
Reviewed By: Dr. Firoz Varun (Chief Physician)
Approved By: Mr. Sreejith K V (General Manager)
Disclaimer
The sole purpose of this article is to provide information about Ayurveda. This information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure or prevention of any disease. If you have an acute or chronic health concern, please consult an Ayurveda doctor who can fully assess your needs and address them effectively.
