Good evening, parents. You are all warmly welcome to Special Education by Dr. Shobha Choudhary. My name is Gopal Choudhary, and as a specialist in Speech Therapy and Naturopathy, it is a privilege to share insights on the growing challenge of autism and natural therapeutic approaches that can empower you as caregivers.
Autism Prevalence and Modern Trends
Recent global research has revealed a dramatic increase in autism rates over the past decades. In the US, autism affected 1 in 20,000 children in 2005. By 2018, this number had risen to 1 in 10,000, and currently, estimates show 1 in 31 children are impacted. Certain regions, such as California, report even higher prevalence, with 1 in 12 boys diagnosed with autism.
These statistics highlight a concerning upward trend, particularly noting that autism seems to affect male children more than female children. Scientific studies point to factors such as medication during pregnancy and widespread vaccination as potential contributors. One notable US study found zero cases of autism in a group who avoided both medication and vaccines from pregnancy onwards, suggesting that environmental and medical exposures may play a role. This is thought to be linked to changes at the chromosomal level, warranting further scientific scrutiny.
Technical Nature of Speech Therapy
Speech therapy, as you know, is a specialized discipline requiring advanced technical skills. Each child with autism requires individualized treatment and often a prolonged therapy regimen, yielding only gradual improvements. Progress may be slow, but consistent, specialized support is crucial.
Ancient Wisdom for Modern Challenges
Indian traditions such as Ayurveda and Siddha provide a rich foundation for holistic health, emphasizing diet, lifestyle, and natural remedies. As Dr. Shobha Mam introduced Siddha practices earlier, consider integrating the following activities into your child’s routine. These recommendations draw on both ancient wisdom and recent biomedical understanding.
Daily Recommendations
Take fresh neem leaves: 1 leaf per 10 kg body weight, or dry leaf powder (1 gm per 10 kg) in warm water, early morning.
Eat 1 gooseberry (amla) daily.
Drink one glass of probiotic kanji (fermented drink) every day.
Prefer alkaline water for hydration.
Include nitric oxide (DIP diet) juices or smoothies of greens like spinach, mint, bathua, mustard, sandaliya, radish leaves, cheel, and amaranthus.
Practice zero-volt body grounding (earthing) for 30 minutes.
Ensure 30 minutes of sun exposure daily: before 11 am in winter, before 9 am in summer.
Replace sugar with natural sweeteners—jaggery or honey.
Eat coconut flesh (giri) at 1gm per kg body weight.
Drink 150 ml milk with turmeric, cardamom, black pepper, jaggery/honey.
Health Benefits of Natural Remedies
Neem leaves: Support immunity, reduce inflammation, and promote gut health.
Gooseberry (Amla): Rich in Vitamin C, anti-oxidant properties, and supports digestion.
Kanji (Probiotic drink): Enhances healthy gut flora, improves digestion, and may reduce inflammation.
Coconut flesh: Provides healthy fats; supports brain development and gut health.
Alkaline water: May help balance body pH, reduce acidity, and improve hydration.
Gut-Brain Connection
Emerging research shows a strong link between gut health and brain function, sometimes called the “gut–brain axis.” A healthy balance of gut bacteria is essential for both digestion and emotional well-being. Probiotic-rich foods (like kanji) support a balanced gut microbiome, which, in turn, positively influences brain health and may improve outcomes for children with autism.
Final Thoughts
These natural interventions are not substitutes for specialized therapy or medical advice, but can complement conventional approaches in your child’s care plan. Adopting healthful changes rooted in Ayurveda and Siddha may support overall well-being, better digestion, a healthier brain, and a brighter future for your child.
Scientific Evidence of Neem Leaves Benefits
Neem contains over 130 biologically active compounds that contribute to its complex medicinal effects, including powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties that help control harmful bacteria and infections in the body.
Neem leaves are rich in antioxidants such as quercetin and beta-carotene, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting immune function and overall health.
Studies show neem has significant anti-inflammatory activity, helping reduce inflammation related to various conditions, and exhibiting immunomodulatory effects that support the body’s defense mechanisms.
Neem is traditionally known to detoxify blood and support liver and kidney health by promoting metabolic processes that eliminate toxins.
Additional benefits include supporting skin and oral health, with neem aiding in acne reduction, oral hygiene, and control of fungal infections.
Research also indicates neem may have tumor-suppressive activities, such as inhibiting growth in certain cancer models, underscoring its potential for broader therapeutic use.
Probiotic kanji is a traditional fermented Indian drink rich in beneficial bacteria that offer multiple health benefits, particularly for the digestive system and immunity.
Benefits of Probiotic Kanji
Improves Digestion: The probiotics in kanji help break down food, reduce bloating, ease constipation, and enhance nutrient absorption by promoting a balanced gut microbiome.
Boosts Immunity: Kanji supports the immune system by stimulating natural antibody production and enhancing immune cells like T-lymphocytes and macrophages, helping the body fight infections.
Detoxifies the Body: Its natural cleansing properties help flush toxins from the digestive system, promoting overall health and gut resilience.
Reduces Inflammation: Rich in antioxidants (especially from black carrots or beets), kanji helps combat inflammation in the gut and body, beneficial for chronic conditions.
Balances Gut Microbiota: Regular consumption replenishes good bacteria, prevents harmful pathogens, supports mental well-being via the gut-brain axis, and promotes regular bowel movements.
Supports Weight Management: Low in calories but nutrient-rich, kanji aids in appetite control and promotes fullness, assisting with weight management.
Natural Antacid: Kanji can help neutralize stomach acid and relieve acidity or heartburn.
The vagus nerve, also known as cranial nerve X, is the longest cranial nerve in the body and a crucial part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls many involuntary body functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion.
Structure and Course
The vagus nerve starts in the brainstem (medulla oblongata) and travels down through the neck, chest, and abdomen.
It branches out to connect with major organs, such as the heart, lungs, and most parts of the digestive system, reaching as far as the large intestine.
Primary Functions
Sensory: Collects sensory information from the throat, heart, lungs, and abdominal organs and sends signals back to the brain.
Motor: Controls muscles in the throat, voice box (larynx), and parts of the mouth, as well as muscles that assist in swallowing and speaking.
Parasympathetic Regulation: Controls the “rest and digest” activities, slowing the heart rate, stimulating digestion through the release of digestive juices, and regulating breathing.
Taste: Provides some sense of taste from the back of the throat and upper esophagus.
Clinical Importance
The vagus nerve also has anti-inflammatory properties and can influence emotional and stress responses.
Disorders related to the vagus nerve can affect swallowing, speech, heart, and digestive function, and vagus nerve stimulation is used as a treatment for some medical conditions including epilepsy and depression.
The vagus nerve is often called the body’s “superhighway” because it carries a vast amount of information between the brain and internal organs, playing a key role in maintaining balance and health across many body systems.