Tag: Alternative Medicine for Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Treatment By Ayurveda

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Abstract

It is a mental disorder in which people have an unreasonably high sense of their own importance. They need too much attention from people. People who are suffering from this disease may lack the ability to understand or care about the feelings of others. Narcissistic personality disorder causes problems in many areas of life such as financial matters, school, work, and relationships. Here in this article, we will discuss this disease in detail and its Ayurvedic management also.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Introduction

A narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health condition in which a patient believes that he is better than everyone else. The word narcissism means self-obsessed. These individuals need topmost priority at all times. This disease is caused due to childhood trauma, early relationships, hypersensitivity, and genetic factors. The symptoms shown by narcissistic personality disorder are fast mood swings, craving attention and unrealistic goals, etc. This disease can be diagnosed by personality tests easily. People with this disorder may be generally unhappy when they are not given special favors. In this disorder mainly males are affected. This disorder not only affects the individual but also others in society. Let’s discuss this in detail.

Causes

  • Hypersensitivity to light, noise, and textures.
  • Environment- the bad relationship between parent and child.
  • Neurobiology- the connection between the brain and thinking.
  • Children whose parents do more praise are at higher risk
  • The children are ignored and abused badly.
  • Males are more prone to NPD as compared to females.
  • Genetics- inherited characteristics
  • Childhood trauma
  • Early relationships

Subtypes

1. The Covert Narcissist

It is the subtype of narcissistic personality disorder in which the patient tends to be shy, self-effacing, hypersensitive, and chronically envious. They often think their problems are worse than everyone else.

2. The Cerebral Narcissist

This type of patient derives their self-importance from their intellect. They believe that they are smarter than everyone else.

3. The Somatic Narcissist

They get their self-worth from their bodies. They tend to obsess over physical appearance and criticize others based on their

4. The Spiritual Narcissist

They always try to show their level of spirituality and closeness to God. They also claim that they had a vision from God about someone else.

Symptoms

  • Fast mood swings
  • Set unrealistic goals
  • hey think that they are special
  • Show off their talents and achievements
  • They think about themselves and talk about themself a lot
  • Fantasize about unlimited money and success
  • They don’t take others’ feelings seriously
  • Crave attention
  • They always try to Put themself first
  • Struggle to keep relationships
  • Upset other people often
  • Being selfish
  • They always think that they know the right way
  • Not able to keep the relationship for a longer time

Complications

  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Drug or alcohol misuse
  • Physical health problems
  • Anorexia

Other personality disorders such as

  • Relationship difficulties
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

Diagnosis

1. Questionnaires

If a patient has symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder then psychotherapists will give him questionnaires. After asking questions, therapists can easily diagnose the patient.

2. Personality tests

In this test, psychotherapists ask questions of patients. This test includes a personality diagnostic questionnaire, millon clinical multiaxial inventory, and an international personality disorder examination.

Treatment

In this disease, doctors prescribe medications to treat symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder.

1. Antidepressants

These medicines manage depression but it has some side effects. The drugs which are given to the patients are fluoxetine and paroxetine etc.

2. Mood Stabilizers

To reduce mood swings, mood stabilizers are given to the patients. Eg. lithium.

3. Antipsychotic Drugs

These drugs reduce depression and anxiety in patients. Examples of antipsychotic drugs are aripiprazole and risperidone.

4. Psychotherapy

Many therapies are used in the management of narcissistic personality disorder. Some therapies are as follows

  • Psychoanalytic psychotherapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Schema-focused psychotherapy
  • Metacognitive interpersonal psychotherapy
  • Dialectical behavior therapy

This therapy is also known as talk therapy. In this therapist might work with the patient on the

  • Maintaining good relationships with family and coworkers
  • Understand and regulate the feelings
  • Try to minimize unrealistic goals and ideal conditions

Prevention

Some methods that help in the prevention of narcissistic personality disorder are as follows

  • Consult your doctor as soon as possible
  • Seek guidance from a social worker

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda is a Vedic science that not only focuses on physical well-being but also focuses on mental and psychological health. It is one of the oldest traditional systems of medicine. As we all know the entire universe is made up of five elements i.e. Aakash, Vayu, Agni, Jal, and Prithvi. These five elements form the three basic senses of humor of the human body i.e. vata, pitta, and kapha. In Ayurveda, the concept of Prakriti is mentioned which is based on the mental and physical constitution of a person. According to Ayurveda mental disorders are caused due to imbalance of mansik doshas such as sattva, rajas, and tamas. Mental disorders mainly occur due to the aggravation of rajas and tamas doshas and the decrease of sattva dosha. The management of mental disorders works in the reverse way in which equilibrium would be set between attributes of the mind i.e. sattva, rajas, and tamas. This disease can be manageable by some ayurvedic therapies such as daaivavapashrya chikitsa, yuktivyapashrya chikitsa, satwavajaya chikitsa and achara rasayana.

Daivavyapashray chikitsa

Daivavyapashraya means to manage the symptoms of disease with the support of god. This chikitsa is used for mental and psychosomatic disorders. When the medicines do not work this therapy can be considered. This chikitsa works on faith and it is also called faith and spiritual therapy. It is divine therapy and derived from the Atharva Veda. In this mantra, mani, homa, niyam, ausadha and yatragamana can be used.

Yuktivyapashrya chikitsa

This chick is divided into three parts i.e. antah parimarjan (internal purification), bahirparimarjin (external purification), and shastra pranidhana (surgical therapy). In Santa Parimarjan chikitsa elevated doshas can be managed by shodan and shaman procedures. In Bahir parimarjan medicines apply to the body externally. Due to this it increases blood circulation and releases any blockages. In Shastra, pranidhana surgical therapy can be done.

Satwavajaya chikitsa

Satwavajaya means strength of mind. It is a non-pharmacological approach to managing mental disorders. In mental disorders, a person loses his satwa and smriti and the main aim of this chikitsa is to enhance the satwa gun and balance the other mansik doshas. So satwavajaya chikitsa is considered to be the best management of Manik doshas.

Achara Rasayana

According to acharya charaka patients should follow Achar rasayana for better psychological health. It is a very unique concept to calms the mind and rejuvenates. In this method, a person should be truthful, free from anger, avoid alcohol, and have stable thoughts, etc.

Along with these therapies, this disease can be managed by some herbs. The herbs which are useful in the management of this disease are brahmi, jatamansi, haritaki, Shatavari, vacha, ashwagandha, etc. These herbs mainly work on the brain and regenerate the brain cells. The functions of these herbs are as follows

Brahmi

This herb contains powerful antioxidants and boosts brain functions. This herb is mainly present in wet areas.  It also has anti-allergic properties that are helpful in reducing redness and irritation. It also enhances the ability of the mind to learn and concentrate on things properly. Thus Brahmi is a powerful brain health supplement that mainly works on the brain and helps in reducing the symptoms of Narcissistic personality disorder.

Jatamansi

jatamansi is an ayurvedic herb that calms the brain and strengthens the nervous system. To boost your mind and get rid of mental disorders this herb is very beneficial.

Ashwagandha

This herb is very beneficial in stress-related disorders. It gives strength to the brain and also controls blood sugar levels. The symptoms shown by narcissistic personality disorder can easily be managed by this wonderful herb.

Shatavari

Shatavari is a very useful herb in the management of psychosomatic disorders. It controls the serotonin levels in the body and relieves us from anxiety and depression.

Haritaki

Haritaki maintains the nervous system. It has neuroprotective elements that help in preventing memory loss and relieves tension.

Vacha

It is an ancient herb and has many health benefits. It has mainly antidepressant properties. It is very helpful in the management of mental disorders.

Thus these herbs are very helpful in the management of narcissistic personality disorder. These are all herbs present in the herbal remedies by Planet Ayurveda.

Herbal remedies for narcissistic personality disorder by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a worldwide company that treats humans as well as animals. This is a GMP-certified company. All the medicines made by this company are natural and free from side effects. This company makes medicines under the observation of MD Ayurveda doctors. Planet Ayurveda makes medicine in the form of tablets, syrup, and churna. All the products are gluten-free. In the case of narcissistic personality disorder following products are offered by Planet Ayurveda

Product list

  1. Brahmi capsules
  2. Maha Paisachika Ghrit
  3. Saraswatarisht
  4. Stress Support

Product Description

1. Brahmi Capsules

Brahmi capsules are made using pure extracts of Brahmi(Bacopa monnieri). Brahmi is an important herb in Ayurvedic medicine. In Ayurveda, it is also considered a medhya rasayana. It is a non-aromatic or creeping herb that usually grows in wet places. The leaves of Brahmi look like the cerebellum of the brain and promote intelligence. It mainly works on the brain and regenerates the brain cells. It also has anti-allergic properties that are helpful in reducing redness and irritation. It also enhances the ability of the mind to learn and concentrate on things properly. Thus Brahmi is a powerful brain health supplement that mainly works on the brain and helps in reducing the symptoms of Narcissistic personality disorder.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily with water after meals.

2. Maha Paisachika ghrit

Mahapaishachika ghrit is an Ayurvedic medicine that consists of natural herbs. The main ingredients of this ghrit are jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), haritaki(Terminalia chebula), vacha Acorus calamus), and sthira (Desmodium genetic), etc. This ghrit is very useful for improving memory, epilepsy, and intelligence. Thus this ghrit is very useful in the management of mental disorders.

The reference of this ghrit is (Charaka chikitsa sthana chapter 9 Shlok no. 45-48)

Dosage: 1 tsp daily with warm water

3. Saraswatarisht

It is an Ayurvedic formulation that consists of a total of eighteen ingredients. All the ingredients in this capsule are natural. The main ingredients of these capsules are Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), sharara (Saccharum), saunf (Foeniculum vulgare), adrak (Zingiber officinale), khas (Vetiveria zizanioides) and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), etc. Saraswatarishta is a powerful medhya rasayana and has other therapeutic qualities such as memory enhancing, anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and anticonvulsant properties, etc. It also balances the brain chemicals i.e. neurotransmitters and dopamine due to which level of serotonin hormone in the body is under control. Thus, saraswatarisht is a traditional medicine to enhance the functions of the brain.

Dosage: 12 to 25 ml once or twice daily

4. Stress support

The main ingredients of this capsule are ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Sagar (Valeriana wallichii), and Brahmi(Bacopa monnieri).This capsule is mainly helpful in the management of stress and pacifies the nervous system. It also increases our mental and physical performance. Ashwagandha present in this capsule helps in controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Tagar is present in this capsule reducing anxiety and calming the central nervous system. The main function of this capsule is to fight against depression.

Dosage: 1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4030 (India), +91-172-521-4030 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 9915-593-604

Conclusion

It is a mental disorder in which people have an unreasonably high sense of their own importance. They need too much attention from people. People who are suffering from this disease may lack the ability to understand or care about the feelings of others. Narcissistic personality disorder causes problems in many areas of life such as financial matters, school, work, and relationships. This disease will not affect individuals but also others in society. If it goes untreated in an earlier stage it will go on for a lifetime. In earlier stages, patients can be treated with psychotherapy. In Ayurveda, this disease can be correlated with the imbalance of manshik doshas and managed by some herbs and ayurvedic therapies such as daivavyapashray chikitsa, yuktivyapashrya chilies and satwavajaya chikitsa, etc. Here in this article, we will discuss this disease in detail and its Ayurvedic management also.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Treatment By Herbal Remedies

ABSTRACT

A narcissistic personality disorder is a mental disorder that is characterized by behavior changes. A mental disorder is known as a mental illness or psychiatric disorder, a behavioral mental pattern that causes impairment of personal functioning. A mental disorder is a psychological syndrome that is usually associated with a pattern, disability, and increased risk of death. It refers to cognitive, behavioral, and emotional well-being. There are 3 types of mental disorders Anxiety disorder, Mood disorder, and Schizophrenia disorder (a spectrum of disorders which is characterized by psychotic features). In some people, the traits are rigid and unworkable and in some patients, these are lasting patterns. In this article, we are going to discuss its causes, symptoms, and its ayurvedic view in detail further in the article.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

INTRODUCTION

A narcissistic personality disorder is a type of personality disorder, is a mental disorder in which people have an inflated sense of importance, excessive need for attention, troubled relationships, and lack of empathy. It is one of the subtypes of personality disorder, which is usually associated with functional impairment and psychosocial disability. Narcissistic is a mental illness, it involves a pattern of self-centered, arrogant thinking and excessive need for administration. People with NPD are cocky, selfish, patronizing, and demanding and are resistant to changing their behavior, and have a tendency to blame others. People with this disorder are likely to be men and people may have depression, anorexia and drug or alcohol-related problems, and many other personality disorders. It is estimated to be the second most prevalent personality disorder which affects about 6.2% of the population. It is listed in the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders. Is a cluster B disorder that causes affected people to appear erratic, emotional, and dramatic. NPD can cause many problems in many areas of a person’s life including- work, school, and relationships. People with NPD are usually described as arrogant, and demanding, often have high self-esteem, need excessive praise from the administration, and react poorly to perceived criticism.

FACTS ABOUT NPD (NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER)

  • Narcissism is a personality trait that centers around self-involved and it exists on a spectrum
  • Narcissistic personality disorder revolves around a prolonged, inflated sense of self, and lack of empathy. 
  • It seems that narcissistic traits and NPD are more common in men than in women.
  • NPD can be tough to diagnose because there aren’t easy tests for it and shares the symptoms with other disorders.
  • Therapy can help someone with NPD, but only if they are willing to put in the work.
  • NPD is widely misunderstood so one must educate properly yourself and others to know what narcissism really means is very important
  • Patients with NPD fantasize about fame or being a superhero, and are obsessed with films, fueling their imaginative, grandiose thoughts and fantasies.

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

There are certain structural abnormalities in the brains of people with NPD, specifically a lesser volume of gray matter in the left and anterior insular cortex. The insular cortex and prefrontal cortex are associated with human emotions of empathy and compassion. But in neurological findings, NPD has damaged the capacity for emotional empathy and emotional regulation.  

TYPES OF NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER

1. Grandiose, over narcissism- is characterized by boldness, arrogance, and grandiose personality traits. People with this type lack empathy, behave aggressively and engage in exhibitionist behavior.

2. Vulnerable, covert narcissism- is characterized by hypersensitivity and defensiveness. They experience low self-esteem.

3. Oblivious and hypervigilant

4. High-functioning and exhibitionist

CAUSES

The exact cause of Narcissistic personality disorder is not known, but it can be due to a complex combination of factors which includes the following

  • Genetics- inherited characteristics
  • Neurobiology- it is the connection between the brain and behavior with thinking
  • Environment- excessive adoration or excessive criticism
  • Excessive parental pampering
  • Unrealistic expectations from parents
  • Certain economic factors

 SYMPTOMS

  • Having an exaggerated sense of self-importance
  • Inability or unwillingness to recognize the needs and feelings
  • Envious of others
  • Become impatient and angry if they don’t receive special treatment
  • Difficulty in regulating emotions and behavior
  • Depressed mood
  • The major problem dealing with stress and adapting to change
  • Showing arrogant, haughty behavior and attitude
  • Eating disorder
  • Persistent fantasies about attaining success and power
  • Set unrealistic goals
  • Fast mood swings

 RISK FACTORS

  • It affects males more than females
  • It often begins in the teens and in early adulthood
  • Excessive parental pampering
  • Unrealistic expectations from parents

DIAGNOSIS

  • Physical examination
  • A thorough psychological evaluation
  • Criteria in the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders such as

1.  Behaving in an arrogant manner

2.  Taking advantage of other

3.  Reacting negatively to criticism

4.  Expecting special treatment due to perceived superiority

5.  Being preoccupied with fantasy, power, and success.

TREATMENT

  • Individual psychodynamic (psychotherapy)
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Psychotropic medications treat the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

COMPLICATIONS

  • Difficulties in relations
  • Drug and alcohol misuse
  • Suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • Physical health problems
  • Problems at work and school
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

PREVENTIONS

  • Get treatment as soon as possible for a child suffering from health problems
  • Learn a healthy way to communicate with conflicts and emotional distress
  • Attend parenting classes and seek guidance from the social workers

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT

Ayurveda has duly recognized the individuality of manas (psyche) and sharer (body). Ayu is said that life is the combined state of body, senses, and mind. Manifestation of manas occurs during the 5th month of pregnancy in the fetal body, indicating the coexistent nature of mind and body. Vayu which is one of the tridoshas is said to be the controller and prompter of manas. The three mano gunas are Sattva, Rajas, and tamas, and they have their own unique qualities. Sattva Guna is considered to be pure while rajas and tamas gunas are the mano doshas or the morbid state of mind. Rajo guna represents action and passion whereas Tamo guna represents ignorance and inertia. Alpha Satwa is the most important component which is indicative of premorbid personality. Rajo gunas have six subtypes- Aasura sattva, Rakshasa sattva, Pishcha Sattva, Preta Sattva, and Shakuna Sattva. Asura Granada is one of 18 types of photon made, characterized by Jihma Grisham (crooked look), Krodhanam (aggressive, impulsive), and fondness for alcohol and meat. This shows similarities with many psychiatric conditions such as bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. Unmada is a broad term that includes various psychiatric conditions and is characterized by deranged mental functions. Bhutonmada is a psychiatric condition characterized by various types of behavior.

QUALITIES OF AASURA SATTVA

  • They maintain their own reputation and self-image
  • only care for their own benefit
  • They are very bold and courageous
  • Are very aggressive in nature and get angry very easily
  • Are cruel and sometimes terrifying

MANAGEMENT FOR NPD (NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER)

  • Daivavapashrya Chikitsa- It is related to divine therapy, which includes chanting mantras wearing sacred herbs, and other rituals. It can also be co-related with spiritual practice, belief systems, and faith.
  • Yuktivyaparsjrya Chikitsa- This is correlated with rational management using diet and aushadh (medicines). Under medicine, it is advised to follow srotas (channels) shuddhi (cleansing) with the help of panchkarma, Panchkarma helps to eliminate the vitiated doshas and cleansing of channels.
  • Satwavajaya Chikitsa- It is correlated with modern-day psychotherapy, to restrain the mind from the desire for unwholesome objects. Yoga can be helpful in this to manage psychiatric and mental problems.

HERBS ARE USEFUL FOR NPD (NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER)

  • SHANKHPUSHPI

Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is a famous ayurvedic herb that is useful in various conditions such as to enhance memory and intelligence and in various toxic conditions. It helps to balance pitta and Kapha doshas, Shankhpushpi is useful in many psychiatric conditions and improves longevity and life expectancy. It helps to induce sleep and promotes hair growth and quality and treats high blood pressure.

  • TAGAR

Tagar (Valeriana Wallachia) is an ayurvedic herb that is used in the treatment of asthma, skin diseases, and in case of animal bites. Balances tridoshas and help to control the poison in the body. Useful in many psychiatric disorders, eye disorders, and abdominal colic pain. Helps to reduce anxiety as it has anxiolytic activity and is beneficial for heart health and relieves muscle spasms as it has antispasmodic action.

  • BRAHMI

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is a famous gift to Ayurveda, as it is really helpful to improve intelligence and memory and is an excellent anti-aging and anti-diabetic herb. Brahmi is useful in many skin diseases and improves the quality of life and in many psychiatric disorders. It is also helpful in cardiac diseases, reduces blood sugar levels, and is a natural detoxification herb.  

  • ASHWAGANDHA

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is useful in the treatment of anxiety and leucoderma and helpful in treating depression, and insomnia. It helps to promote strength in cardiac disorders and helps to relieve stress, depression, and anxiety. Ashwagandha helps to improve heat and digestion helps to boost immunity and fight against infections.      

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR NPD (NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER) 

Planet Ayurveda is an ayurvedic manufacturing company that makes all formulations from its natural resources. They have many branches overseas, It is a GMP-certified company and all the products made are according to ancient ayurvedic texts. The products made are free from any resins, colors, and preservatives. They are 100% pure herbal products that cause no side effects and provide many health benefits to patients.

PRODUCTS LIST

1. BRAHMI CAPSULE

2. MAHA PAISACHIKA GHRIT

3. SARASWATARISHT

4. STRESS SUPPORT

 PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

1. Brahmi Capsules

Brahmi Capsules are single herbal capsules which are made by Planet Ayurveda using a standardized extract of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). These capsules are helpful in bronchitis, fluid retention, premature ejaculation, in cardiac, nerve, and brain tonic. It has the unique ability to provide new energy and mental strength and reduce the effects of stress and nervous anxiety. These capsules are a good overall tonic that works as a rasayana, a longevity enhancer.

Dosage  1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

2. Mahapaishachika Ghritam

Maha Paishachika Ghrit is ayurvedic herbal ghee that is helpful for increasing memory, intelligence, and in epilepsy. Various ingredients are used in the process of making this ghrit, such as Jatamamsi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Vacha (Acorus calamus), and Sthira (Desmodium gangeticum) many more. This ghrit is helpful in diseases such as seizures (Graha), promotes memory, and helps in the development of children.

Dosage  1 tsp twice daily with warm water.

3. Saraswatarisht

Saraswatarisht is a classical herbal formulation that is prepared by planet ayurveda using ingredients such as Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Adrak (Zingiber officinale), Shankara (Saccharum), Laung (Syzygium aromaticum) and many more. This alcoholic preparation is helpful in enhancing intelligence, promoting the sharpness of the brain, and curing digestive and bowel problems. It is also helpful in menstrual problems, infertility, and in the treatment of epilepsy.

Dosage  2 tsp twice daily.

4. Stress Support

Stress Support Capsules are polyherbal capsules that are made by planet ayurveda using various ingredients such as Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Tagar (Valeriana wallichii), and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). These herbs are useful to induce sleep and help to relieve stress and body ache. It helps to improve natural strength, increase stamina, and helps to keep sugar and blood pressure in control.  

Dosage  1 capsule twice daily

CONTACT PLANET AYURVEDA TO PROVIDE YOU THE COSTING / ORDERING AND DELIVERY INFORMATION AT – COSTING.PLANETAYURVEDA@GMAIL.COM OR CALL AT +91-172-5214040

CONCLUSION

A narcissistic personality disorder is a mental disorder that is characterized by behavior changes. A mental disorder is known as a mental illness or psychiatric disorder, a behavioral mental pattern that causes impairment of personal functioning. It is one of the subtypes of personality disorder, which is usually associated with functional impairment and psychosocial disability. Narcissistic is a mental illness, it involves a pattern of self-centered, arrogant thinking and excessive need for administration. Ayurveda has duly recognized the individuality of manas (psyche) and sharer (body). Ayu is said that life is the combined state of body, senses, and mind. Alpasatwa is the most important component which is indicative of premorbid personality. Planet Ayurveda provides many herbal remedies which are effective in this treatment and provide great relief to patients.