Effect of an Innovative Online Ayurveda Program for Detox and Lifestyle on Mental and Physical Health in Home-Based Adults: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background and Objective: Mental health complaints have significantly increased in Europe over recent years. This study evaluated the effects and safety of a 4-month online, multimodal, complementary intervention on the mental and physical health of home-based adults. Method: Ninety-eight home-based adults with mild to severe mental health and related physical symptoms were recruited across Europe through digital advertisements. This single-arm repeated-measures study utilized three individualized treatment groups to evaluate the impact of the Ayurveda Program for Detox and Lifestyle. The online program included a personalized Ayurveda diet, daily routine, yoga exercise, herbal detoxification procedures, and herbal preparations. Standardized online tests were administered monthly for 4 months to assess anxiety, depression, physical symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire for Somatic, Anxiety, and Depressive Symptoms), fatigue (PROMIS), and body mass index (BMI). Results: The study population was predominantly female (85%), with a mean age of 58 years. By the end of the fourth month, primary outcomes indicated a significant decrease in anxiety (55%, p < 0.001) and depression symptoms (45%, p < 0.001). The secondary outcomes showed a significant reduction in physical symptoms, including musculoskeletal, neurological, and digestive issues (42%, p < 0.001); fatigue (31%, p < 0.001); and BMI (2%, p < 0.001). Improvements were consistent across all treatment groups, with no significant differences observed. The intervention was feasible and generally safe, with 91% retention, 70% compliance, and 6% adverse effects. Conclusion: The initial results suggest that the Ayurveda Program for Detox and Lifestyle is safe and is associated with significant improvements in the mental and physical health of participants. This trial highlights the potential benefits of integrating complementary lifestyle protocols into standard primary and mental health care practices. Future randomized controlled trials are recommended to control for confounding factors and validate these findings in larger clinical populations.

Keywords: Ayurveda; detoxification; integrative medicine; lifestyle; mental health; physical health.