Effect of Shirodhara on stress biomarkers – A case study

Stress is a common health problem that has a negative impact on physical, mental and emotional health. This case study examines the effect of Shirodhara, an Ayurvedic therapy, on stress biomarkers and mood in a 35-year-old female patient with sleep disorders, difficulty concentrating and irritability.

Method

The patient was admitted to Ayurveda and Unani Tibbia College & Hospital, New Delhi. She was treated daily for a period of 14 days with Shirodhara, where warm sesame oil was continuously poured over the forehead. The sessions lasted 45 minutes and took place between 9 and 10 in the morning. The following parameters were recorded to evaluate the therapy:

Profile of Mood States (POMS) scale to measure mood

Serum cortisol (Sr. Cortisol) as a stress biomarker

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) as a stress biomarker

Results

Changes in the stress biomarkers:

Before therapy: Sr. cortisol: 14.52 µg/dL, DHEA: 36.50 ng/dL

After therapy: Sr. cortisol: 09.45 µg/dL, DHEA: 21.50 ng/dL

Changes in the POMS score:

Before therapy: Total mood (TMD): 49

After 7 days: TMD: 8

After 14 days: TMD: -21 (significant improvement)

Subscales in the POMS score:

Tension (TEN): from 15 to 01

Anger (ANG): from 13 to 01

Fatigue (FAT): from 05 to 05

Depression (DEP): from 12 to 00

Confusion (CON): from 17 to 06

Vigour (VIG): from 10 to 12

Esteem Related Affect (ERA): from 13 to 12

Changes in blood pressure:

Before therapy: systolic: 122.85 mmHg; diastolic: 78 mmHg

After therapy: systolic: 112.14 mmHg; diastolic: 73.85 mmHg

The case study shows that Shirodhara with warm sesame oil can bring about a significant reduction in stress biomarkers (cortisol, DHEA). The patient’s mood and quality of life improved significantly, especially with regard to anxiety, depression and confusion. Blood pressure and sleep quality also showed an improvement. Shirodhara proved to be a safe and well-tolerated therapy that can contribute to stress management and emotional stabilization.