Concept of Ashta Vibhrama and its Critical understanding
1B. Malavika and 2M. Vivek
1,2Parul Institute of Ayurved and Research, Parul University, Vadodra - 391760 (India) 1Email : malavikablk@gmail.com 2Email : vivekmanohar.1993@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Ashta vibramas are mentioned in Charaka Samhita while explaining the disease Unmada. As the name suggests, it includes eight errors or confusions which leads to disturbed functioning of the mind, thus leading to Unmada or mental disorders. These include vibrama of Mana, buddhi, samja jnana, smriti, bhakti, Sheela, Cheshta and aachara. The concept of Ashta vibrama is often ignored or not usually critically analysed. Ashta vibrama is the ayurvedic form of Mental Status Examination (MSE). An in-depth knowledge about ashta vibrama helps in understanding psychiatric disorders through its presentation according to ayurveda. The present article explores the concept of Ashta Vibhrama in detail and attempts to interpret it in light of contemporary psychological and psychiatric understanding.