A small clinical study from the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), Jamnagar, Gujarat, has found that combining Ayurvedic medicine with yoga may offer greater relief from childhood bedwetting than Ayurveda alone.

The eight-week study, involving around 38 children aged between six and 14, examined nocturnal enuresis — the medical term for involuntary urination during sleep. Researchers from ITRA’s Department of Kaumarbhritya (Paediatrics) divided the children into two groups to compare the outcomes.

One group received Medhya Rasayana Churna, an Ayurvedic formulation containing Brahmi, Shankhpushpi, Yashtimadhu (liquorice) and Guduchi, twice a day with milk. The second group received the same formulation but also practised four yoga asanas — Utkatasana, Ardha-Shalabhasana, Bhujangasana and Shavasana — in the morning and evening.

The difference in outcomes was notable. According to the study, the Ayurveda-only group recorded about a 38% improvement in bedwetting frequency. Among children who combined the medicine with yoga, improvement rose to nearly 70%.

The researchers also reported broader changes in behaviour and psychological parameters. Memory improved by around 61% in the combined-treatment group, compared with 31% in the Ayurveda-only group. Irritability fell by approximately 66%, while hyperactivity declined by about 71% among children practising yoga.

The findings, published in the AYU Journal, were reported by Prof. Vaidya Virendra Kori, Vaidya Sagar Bhinde and Vaidya Amisha Bavarva.

Prof. Dr Tanuja Nesari, Director of ITRA, said childhood bedwetting can involve not only bladder-control difficulties but also psychological and behavioural factors. The researchers suggest that selected yoga postures may help strengthen the pelvic region and support bladder control. Brahmi and Shankhpushpi have traditionally been associated with calming and mental well-being.

The study adds to the discussion around integrated approaches to childhood health, bringing together traditional medicine, physical practice and lifestyle interventions. The findings warrant further research before broader conclusions can be drawn.

For parents, the message is equally important: bedwetting is common in childhood and should be approached without stigma or punishment and assessed by an appropriate healthcare professional.

Reference:

Press Information Bureau