The Science of Mantra Chikitsa and Sound frequencies in healing

Abstract

Background: According to WHO, over a billion people face mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress-related conditions, etc worldwide, underscoring the urgent need for stronger global action and investment. Healing sound and mantra therapy harness positive vibrations to calm the mind and counter rising mental health challenges. In Charaka Samhita, Mantra Chikitsa is described as a healing method that uses mantras, the sacred sounds, chants, or prayers believed to have protective and restorative powers. It is part of Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa (divine therapies), one of the three main treatment methods in Ayurveda classical texts/. Sound healing means using sound waves and vibrations to help the body heal and regain balance. This works on the idea that sound can interact with our body’s natural energy and stimulate recovery . In Ayurveda, chanting mantras and using sound frequencies are not just ancient customs but important tools for maintaining physical health, emotional stability, and spiritual harmony. Aim: This review article focuses on the ancient and modern perspectives of mantra chanting, sound-frequency therapies and their applications for mental health and wellbeing from various sources. Methods and Materials: An exclusive review of the available books of Ayurveda such as Charakh Samhita and modern books such as Ayurveda and mind, Meditation on om, etc was done to compile the available literature on Mantra chikitsa and sound frequencies. Result: Both Ayurveda and contemporary medical science agree that sound can help bring emotional calm, restore energy balance, and improve overall health, making it valuable in today’s busy, stressful life. Conclusion: Hence, Sound therapy bridges ancient wisdom and modern science, offering a simple path to balance and well-being in today’s hectic world.

References

1. World Health Organization. Over a billion people living with mental health conditions – services require urgent scale-up. World Health Organization. 2025 Sep 2 , accessed on 2025 Sep 3 ; https://www.who.int/news/item/02-09-2025-over-a-billion people-living-with-mental-health-conditions- services-require-urgent-scale-up.
2. Sastri PK , Chaturvedi GN , 1st Edition, Caraka Samhita, Sutrasthan , Chapter 1, Verse 58 , Varanasi, Chaukhamba bharti academy, 2024; 30.
3. Frawley D . Ayurveda and the Mind: The Healing of Consciousness . 1 st Edition.Twin Lakes (WI). Lotus Press, 1997 ; 11-17.
4. Sastri PK , Chaturvedi GN , 1st Edition, Caraka Samhita, Sutrasthan, Chapter 11,Verse 54 , Varanasi, Chaukhamba bharti academy, 2024; 208-209.
5. Tripathi B , 1 st Edition , Agnivesha Charaka Samhita ( Charak & Dridhabala) Hindi commentary , Shubharti Prakashan , Reprint - 2009 , Sutrasthan , Chapter - 11 , Verse -54 ; 248.
6. Kumar S, HR Nagendra, NK Manjunath, KV Naveen, Shirley Telles. 2010. "Meditation on OM: Relevance from Ancient Texts and Contemporary Science." International Journal of Yoga. 3: 2-5.
7. Chaudhary K , MD . Sound Medicine: How to Use the Ancient Science of Sound to Heal the Body and Mind . 1 st Edition. HarperCollins , 2020 ; 190 – 210.
8. Theo Harrison . The Best Mantra To Chant Everyday: How ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ Can Transform Your Lifen . Mind journal . 2023 July 4 , accessed on 2025 Sep 1 . https://themindsjournal.com/the-best-mantra-to-chant- everyday-how-om-namah shivaya-can-transform-your-life/
9. Sound Healing Singing Bowl mantras Tones, Frequencies and Sound . Arogya Yoga School . 2023 Sep 4 , accessed on 2025 Sep 1 . Published by: Ishan Ayurvedic Medical College and Research Center | www.ishanayurved.com 23 Ayurvedic Health Care Journal, Volume – 3, ISSN: 2583-9330 https://www.arogyayogaschool.com/blog/sound-healing-singing-bowl-mantras tones-frequencies-and-sound/
10. Ali F , Sound Healing : How to use sound to beat stress and anxiety . 1 st Edition . Watkins Media Ltd 2024 ; 66-74.