Abstract

Abstract

Nidra in Ayurveda is described as one of the primary tripods of life. Nidra (Sleep) is the physiological harmonious feature gifted by nature to the mankind which is an essential phenomenon for maintenance and restoration of both body and mind. Ayurved mentioned functions of Nidra that leads to happiness, fertility, good memory and longevity of life. The importance of sleep is well accepted by modern science also that it is helpful in conservation of energy, restoration of tissues and growth, thermoregulation, regulation of emotions, neural maturation, memory and learning. It runs according to the biological clock mandatory for the well-being of human life’s rhythm.Sleep disorders are commonly under diagnosed and are significant source of concern in the geriatric population. Several diverse factors may contribute in sleep disturbances in a large percentage of the elderly population including retirement, health problems and death of spouse/family member, medications used by them.About 1/3rd of world population is suffering from various sleep disorders. Since sleep is directly connected with the mental state. It is generally observed that over the counter use of sedatives, antidepressants, anti-psychotic medications leads to dependency over these medicines and serious side effects are encountered in elderly patients.Therefore, thought was in mind to overcome Nidranasha and further to avoid side effects and dependency of allopathic medicine by administration of Murdhni Tail in the form of Shirodhara mentioned in Ayurved. It has the important function of Tarpan of Prana. It is observed that Tila Tail (Lukewarm) in the form of Shirodhara dilates the vasculature of brain leading to calmness of mind and sound sleep by increasing the perfusion of oxygen to brain tissues.