Publication:

The efficacy of mud pack to eyes on cognitive functions among depressed adolescents: a study protocol for randomized controlled trial

Background Mud pack to eyes is a naturopathic treatment that involves applying mud pack directly over closed eyes. Mud pack will be prepared by wrapping the soaked mud in a cotton fabric strip. Mud pack to eyes are regarded to have therapeutic benefits, particularly for the treatment of stress-related symptoms and for the promotion of relaxation. Despite its extensive use in naturopathic practice, there is currently very little research investigating the precise effects of mud pack to eyes on cognitive functions, particularly in adolescents with depression.

Methods In this study protocol, a randomized control design will be used. Eligible people will be randomly assigned to study and control groups. 40 participants in study group will get 30-minute mud pack to eyes intervention once a day for four weeks (5 days a week). Control group (n=40) will rest in supine position for 30 minutes once a day for four weeks (5 days a week). Assessments such as critical flicker fusion frequency (CFFF), auditory reaction time (ART), visual reaction time (VRT), BDI-II (Beck’s depression inventory) scores and MAAS (Mindfulness attention awareness scale) scores of both study and control group participants will be assessed before and after the interventions.

Conclusions Mud pack to eyes intervention is an easy and efficient method of enhancing mindfulness and cognitive functions as well as reduce the symptoms of depression among depressed adolescents. Trial registration: This study was prospectively documented in clinical trial registry of India (CTRI/2023/10/ 059052).