An open label pilot trial of Abhaya Ghrita in autistic disorder

Autism is a developmental disorder which is characterized by impaired social communication, interaction, stereotypic behaviors and restricted interests. Signs and symptoms of Autism are still unclear.1 Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a syndrome which manifests during early childhood. The characteristic features of ASD include abnormal or unreciprocated interpersonal & emotional interactions, disturbed language & communication, and repetitive & stereotypic behavior.2 Global prevalence of ASD ranges from 0.07% to 1.8%. In India prevalence rate of ASD is 1.2%. Male gender and upper socio economic status had a higher risk of Autism.3 There is a little evidence of any ‘cure’ for Autism.4 Parents of autistic children mostly prefer alternative therapies for improving developmental progression in language skills and social interactions. People often turn to ‘Complementary and alternative medicine’ (CAM) when they have a chronic problem that conventional medicine hasn’t cured. Certain treatments, diets, behavioral therapies, herbal remedies have shown promising effects on autism patients.5