Unlocking Potential: Ayurvedic Insights on Supporting Neurodiversity and Autism

Discovering the Power of Brahmi: A Natural Brain Booster for Children with Autism

Understanding Neurotypical Development and Autism Through the Lens of Ayurveda

I am writing this post to reach parents who believe that changes in their neurotypical children’s development are possible. I am also writing for those who think that autism can be reduced or, in some cases, completely eliminated.

This is a very bumpy road—often thankless and requiring a lot of perseverance and hope—but I know that as long as there is hope, anything can change.

In this post, I would like to present an overview of autism and developmental disorders from an Ayurvedic perspective.

Autism as a Disorder of Vata

Autism is considered a disorder of Vata—one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, which govern different aspects of our life and health. Vata represents movement, space, and air, which perfectly explains many characteristics observed in children with autism. They often find it challenging to sit still and are constantly in motion, much like Vata, which is dynamic and fluctuating.

Almost all children with autism experience issues with their digestive system, suffering from chronic constipation or loose stools.

In Ayurveda, it is believed that many illnesses arise from the improper functioning of the digestive system, which leads to the accumulation of toxins (ama) that affect the entire body.

Gut-Brain Connection: The Key to Brain Health

Ayurveda places a great emphasis on the gut-brain connection, the relationship between the digestive system and the brain. For neurotypical children, this is a significant challenge because they tend to prefer foods like bread, rolls, and pancakes, creating what is known as a “beige diet.” Unfortunately, this diet not only lacks nutritional value but also contributes to the body’s accumulation of toxins.

There is often discussion about completely excluding gluten and dairy from the diets of autistic children. According to Ayurveda, all tastes are essential in a balanced diet, but gluten should be reduced or eliminated.

Eliminating Products – A Necessary Balance

It’s essential to remember that eliminating products from the diet should be balanced with the introduction of healthier alternatives. We shouldn’t focus solely on removing food but also on replacing it with nutritious substitutes to ensure the body still receives proper nourishment.

The same applies to cow’s milk. Children often enjoy fruit-flavored yogurts from the store. Still, it’s essential to note that these yogurts bear little resemblance to traditional yogurt made from fresh milk, which contains live bacteria that promote healthy gut flora. Store-bought pasteurized milk is, in fact, a drink that has little in common with traditional milk, aside from its color. I’ll write more about this in a separate post.

Ayurvedic Herbs to Support Autism Therapy

Now, let’s explore the wealth of Ayurvedic herbs that can help support therapies for autism, ADHD, and other neurological disorders. Ayurveda offers numerous natural remedies that can help balance Vata energy and support the digestive system, ultimately enhancing the overall health and well-being of the child.

Brahmi: A Natural Herb That Could Support Brain Health for Children with Autism

As we learn more about supporting children with autism, many parents are seeking natural ways to enhance brain health and improve mental function. One herb that is gaining attention for its potential benefits is Brahmi, a powerful plant used in traditional medicine for centuries. Brahmi refers to two plants, Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica, both of which are known for their ability to support brain function and overall mental clarity.

Children with autism often experience challenges related to memory, focus, and cognitive function. While there are many approaches to help these children thrive, natural remedies like Brahmi could play a key role in supporting their brain health and mental development.

How Does Brahmi Work?

Brahmi is considered a medhyarasayana in Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine. This means it’s a herb that can help enhance memory, improve cognitive function, and support overall brain health. Studies have shown that both Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica have neuroprotective properties, which means they can help protect the brain and support its healthy functioning.

For children with autism, this could be incredibly valuable. Brahmi has been found to support cognitive abilities, including attention, memory, and concentration. Since many children on the autism spectrum experience challenges with these functions, Brahmi could offer a natural way to support and improve these areas.

What the Research Says

Research suggests that Brahmi has nootropic effects, which means it could help boost cognitive performance. It has been shown to have positive effects on memory, learning, and focus, all of which are important for children with autism who may struggle in these areas. Additionally, Brahmi possesses neuroprotective properties, which may help protect the brain from stress and damage, thereby supporting long-term brain health.

How Brahmi Might Help Children with Autism

For children on the autism spectrum, supporting brain health and enhancing cognitive function can significantly impact their development and daily life. Brahmi could potentially help with:

• Improving focus and attention: Brahmi has been shown to support cognitive clarity, which may help children concentrate better and engage more in their daily activities.
• Supporting memory: Memory challenges are common in children with autism, and Brahmi’s memory-enhancing properties could be helpful in supporting learning and the retention of information.
• Reducing stress: Brahmi’s neuroprotective effects may help reduce tension in the brain, which is beneficial for overall well-being and mental health.

A Natural Support for Autism Therapies

While Brahmi is not a cure for autism, it can be a valuable natural supplement to existing therapies. Many parents are increasingly turning to herbal remedies to complement traditional treatments, and Brahmi could be a gentle and effective way to support a child’s cognitive development and brain health.

As always, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements or herbs to your child’s routine. With proper guidance, Brahmi can become an integral part of a holistic approach to supporting children with autism and helping them reach their full potential.

Stay tuned! Over the next few weeks, I will be unfolding five herbs that may support children with autism. Next week, I’ll be writing about Shankhapushpi—another powerful herb that can enhance cognitive function.

source: Neurotransmitter, Antioxidant and Anti-neuroinflammatory Mechanistic Potentials of Herbal Medicines in Ameliorating Autism Spectrum Disorder – PubMed

Integrating Modern Medicine with Yoga and Ayurveda for Better Patient Care Dr Rajeev Gupta page 210