Siddha Varma Stimulation as a Non-Pharmacological Strategy for Insomnia: Clinical Evaluation of Kothandaadangal Points

Abstract

Background: Insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder that significantly affects quality of life and overall health. While conventional treatments are effective, they may lead to dependency, cognitive side effects, or tolerance. Siddha medicine, particularly its Varma therapy approach, offers a non-invasive traditional alternative for managing nervous system disorders, including insomnia.

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Kothandaadangal Varma point stimulation in improving sleep outcomes among patients with primary insomnia.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 20 participants aged 25–60 years, diagnosed with primary insomnia as per ICSD-3 criteria. Patients received Kothandaadangal Varma stimulation thrice weekly for six weeks. Sleep quality was evaluated using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and self-reported sleep diaries.

Results: A significant reduction in ISI scores was observed, decreasing from a baseline mean of 22.5 to 11.2. Sleep latency reduced from 60 minutes to 25 minutes, and average total sleep time increased from 4.2 to 6.8 hours. No adverse effects were reported.

Conclusion: Kothandaadangal Varma stimulation appears to be a safe and effective complementary therapy for primary insomnia, with outcomes aligning with both traditional Siddha concepts and modern neurophysiological mechanisms.