Evaluation of Comparative Efficacy of Brahmi vs. Haritaki Extract in the Management of Academic Stress in Adolescent Students- A Prakriti based Double-blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Prevalence of mental illnesses among adolescents was found 7.3% (N=1191) by NMHS survey 2015-16 whereas the national crime record bureau in 2014 stated 1.8% of students committed suicide due to failure in their exams. The root cause, that is academic stress is often ignored which occurred due to various stressors like physical, mental, family, school, relationship, and social factors of which School factor (56.7%) and academic tests (45.6%) hold maximum association. Proper management can be provided with Ayurveda by Prakriti wise (exploring one physical, physiological and psychological factors) analysis of stress and their coping up strength and effect, when assisted with oral intakes of Ayurveda drugs like Brahmi and Haritaki along with Sattvavajaya Chikitsa having Achar Rasayana, Surya Namaskar, Dharna, and Dhyana practices. Aim and Objectives: The aim is to evaluate the comparative efficacy of Brahmi extract with Sattvavajaya Chikitsa over the effect of Haritaki extract with Sattvavajaya Chikitsa in the management of Academic Stress among adolescent students of different Prakriti. Material and Methods: A double-blind reference standard controlled stratified randomized superiority clinical trial is planned. The sample size of 198 participants with 13% dropout consideration will be enrolled after analysis of their Prakriti and stress level between 5-25 according to the SAAS scale. Total 6 subgroups (3 each for trial drug group and 3 for standard control) will have Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Doshic (V, P & K) dominant Prakriti participants of 10 to 17years of age. Total 33 participants in each subgroup will have the interventions for 90 days. Observation and Results: Participants will be assessed for changes in salivary cortisol, level of academic stress, IQ, and memory before and after the trial. The standard descriptive and inferential statistical measures will be used to assess the effect of interventions. Conclusion: Prakriti analysis will help stressed adolescents to know their strengths and interventions provided will be expected to help a stressed one to minimize stress level and also assist in developing their stress-coping mechanism.