Substance Abuse: An Integrative Ayurvedic Approach at Dr. Sanjeev Kalra’s Brain Health Center, India
Substance Abuse—now clinically recognized as Substance Use Disorder (SUD)—occurs when repeated use of alcohol, nicotine, or drugs leads to significant psychological, physical, and social impairment. It alters brain chemistry, affects decision‑making, and interferes with health, emotions, and relationships. SUD is considered a mental health condition that ranges from mild to severe, causing compulsive use despite harmful consequences.
Global Prevalence
Substance abuse is one of the world’s fastest‑growing public health crises:
- • 316 million people used illicit drugs in 2023—a historic high.
- • Drug use disorders have risen by 13% in the last decade, yet only 1 in 12 affected individuals receive treatment.
- • Harmful alcohol and drug use contributes to over 3 million deaths each year globally.
- • Global substance use prevalence reached 5.4% in 2024, affecting roughly 430 million people worldwide.
The urgency for safe, accessible, and integrative de‑addiction care has never been greater.
Symptoms & Signs of Substance Abuse
- • Cravings and loss of control
- • Continued use despite problems
- • Neglecting responsibilities
- • Social withdrawal
Behavioral & Psychological Indicators
Physical & Functional Symptoms
- • Intoxication effects: impaired judgment, altered mood
- • Withdrawal: nausea, sweating, tremors, mood instability
Severe Warning Signs
- • Damage to relationships, jobs, or health
- • Risk‑taking behavior during use
- • Tolerance and escalating dosage
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by trained professionals using DSM‑5‑TR criteria, which evaluate physical dependence, risky use, impaired control, and social dysfunction. SUD assessments include tools such as DAST, TAPS, and CRAFFT, alongside clinical interviews.
Ayurveda’s Perspective on Substance Abuse (Dushi Visha / Madakari Dravya)
Ayurveda classifies addictive substances under Madakari Dravya and views prolonged use as a form of Dushi Visha—a subtle toxin that accumulates in body tissues, disturbing Vata, Pitta, Kapha, and the mind (Manas).Addiction arises from imbalance in Satva (mental clarity), Rajas, and Tamas, creating emotional instability, cravings, and loss of self‑control. Ayurveda therefore targets both detoxification and mental rejuvenation.
Ayurvedic & Panchakarma Treatment at Dr. Sanjeev Kalra’s Center
Our integrative de‑addiction approach focuses on detox, neuro‑rebalancing, emotional stability, and relapse prevention.
Panchakarma Therapies
- • Nasya (Medicated Nasal Therapy)
Shown to reduce cravings, irritability, withdrawal symptoms, and emotional distress. - • Shirodhara
Calms the nervous system, stabilizes hormones, reduces anxiety, and supports emotional healing. - • Virechana & Basti (Detox and Rejuvenating Enemas)
Helpful in clearing accumulated toxins, balancing Vata‑Pitta disturbances, and reducing relapse tendencies. - • Herbal Support & Rasayana Therapy
Formulations like Brahmi Ghrita, Ashwagandha, Medhya Rasayana, and personalized detox herbs enhance cognitive clarity and emotional resilience.
Sattvavajaya Chikitsa (Mind‑Strengthening Therapy)
This includes counseling, lifestyle restructuring, meditation, and behavioral correction to rebuild willpower and stabilize the mind.
Outcome Evidence (Case Studies)
- • Nasya + Medhya herbs reduced cravings, suicidal ideation, and withdrawal symptoms in a 21‑year‑old patient.
- • Panchakarma + herbs improved alcohol withdrawal symptoms and emotional balance.
- • Ayurvedic de‑addiction protocols reduced relapse rates and improved psychological health in multiple systematic reviews.
Why Choose Dr. Sanjeev Kalra’s Integrative Brain Health Center?
- • Holistic, non‑judgmental approach to recovery
- • Customized Panchakarma detox plans
- • Integrative counseling & mental‑health support
- • Safe, natural herbal formulations
- • Personalized relapse‑prevention strategies
Our goal is to help individuals break free from addiction and restore health, dignity, and purpose—naturally and sustainably.