A Randomised Comparative Clinical Trial to Assess the Effectiveness of Sirovasti in Two Different Matra (Time Period) With Ksheerabala Taila in Non-Organic Insomnia

Abstract

Introduction: Sleep is essential for maintaining health and well-being, and its deprivation can lead to neuro-psycho-physiological imbalances. Non-Organic Insomnia (NOI) is characterized by difficulty in sleep initiation and maintenance for at least three nights per week over a month, impacting social and occupational functioning without any identifiable organic cause. Ayurveda describes such conditions under Nidranasha, a Vataja Nanatmaja Vikara, for which Murdhni Taila procedures like Sirovasti are recommended.

Objectives. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Sirovasti with Kṣheerabala Taila in NOI, comparing two durations: 53 minutes and 80 minutes. A total of 36 eligible participants were randomly allocated into two groups—Group A (80 minutes/day) and Group B (53 minutes/day), treated for a maximum of 7 days or until Samyak Lakṣaṇa was observed.

Methods:Assessments included the Insomnia Severity Index, Visual Analogue Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, daily observation of Samyak Lakṣaṇa, Indriyaprasada, and Nidravegadharaṇa lakṣaṇas. Both groups showed statistically significant improvement (p<0.001). Though inter-group comparison was statistically insignificant, greater symptomatic relief was observed in the Trial group. Nidravegadharaṇa symptoms and Indriyaprasada showed significantly better outcomes in the 80-minute group.

Results & Conclusions: Sirovasti with Kṣheerabala Taila is effective in managing NOI. Both 53-minute and 80-minute durations yielded significant results, with the 80-minute duration showing slightly better subjective improvement. This suggests that the Matrakala described by Susruta is adequate for achieving therapeutic benefits, supporting the efficacy of traditional treatment durations in Vyadhi Samana.