PCOD Management in Ayurveda

Ayurvedic Treatment for PCOD

Polycystic ovarian syndrome/disease (Infertility Queen) is a systemic endocrine and metabolic disorder. It was originally considered a gynecological disorder. Hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenemia are the chief culprits responsible for oligo/ amenorrhoea, hirsutism, obesity, and enlarged ovaries with multiple small cysts and thick tunica resulting in anovulation. In Ayurveda few diseases in the group of yoni vyapad and jatiharini have some similarities with this entity but pushpaghni jatiharini described by Acharya Kashyap have much resemblance. Early recognition and intervention such as the development of further complications, and medical and surgical treatment are advised according to the need and severity of the disease. Ayurveda advocates the prevention of disease by following dincharya and ritucharya, by use of pathya aahar, vihar, aushadh and also by avoiding apathya aahar, vihar, prajnaparadha, mandagni, eating excessive sweet and kaphvardhak aahar and lack of love and other etiological factors. Therefore kapha reducing, insulin rebalancing, obstruction clearing aushadh aahar and vihar can helps to prevent / treat PCOS. This disorder involves pitta, kapha, medas with ambuvahasrotas and artavdhatu, these should be considered during treatment.

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What is PCOS?

PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a hormonal disorder that affects the ovaries and disrupts the normal ovulation process. In PCOS, the ovaries produce higher levels of androgens (male hormones) than usual, leading to the formation of small fluid-filled sacs (cysts) on the ovaries. These hormonal imbalances can cause irregular or absent menstrual cycles, difficulties in conceiving, and various other health issues.

Etiological Factors of PCOS

The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development. These factors include genetics, insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle choices. A family history of PCOS, a sedentary lifestyle, and unhealthy dietary habits are also known to increase the risk of developing PCOS.

Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS can manifest through a variety of symptoms, which may vary from person to person. Common symptoms include irregular or absent menstrual periods, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, weight gain, and fertility problems. Additionally, some women with PCOS may experience mood swings, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

Types of PCOS

While PCOS presents with similar symptoms, it can be classified into different types based on the predominant symptoms and hormonal imbalances in each individual. Understanding the specific type of PCOS can help tailor treatment approaches for better results.

Complications in PCOS

If left untreated, PCOS can lead to various health complications, such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases. It can also cause difficulties in getting pregnant (infertility) and may impact emotional well-being due to the psychological effects of the condition.

Ayurvedic Concept and Management of PCOS

Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine from India, offers a holistic approach to managing PCOS. According to Ayurveda, PCOS is believed to be caused by an imbalance in the doshas (vital energies), particularly Vata and Kapha. The condition is known as "Artava Kshaya" in Ayurveda, which refers to a decrease in the quality and quantity of menstrual blood.

Ayurvedic management of PCOS focuses on restoring the balance of doshas, improving digestion, and promoting overall well-being. Ayurvedic practitioners adopt a personalized approach to treatment, considering each individual's unique constitution and imbalances. The treatment may include a combination of Ayurvedic herbs, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and therapeutic procedures.

Precautions to Avoid Aggravating PCOS

To manage PCOS effectively, certain precautions should be taken to prevent exacerbating the condition. These include adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, managing stress, and avoiding unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Diet and Lifestyle in the Treatment of PCOS

Diet plays a crucial role in managing PCOS. Ayurvedic practitioners recommend a diet that balances the doshas and supports hormonal equilibrium. This may involve consuming fresh, organic foods and avoiding processed and sugary items. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is beneficial for women with PCOS.

Lifestyle modifications are equally important in PCOS management. Regular exercise, yoga, and meditation can help reduce stress, improve hormonal balance, and enhance overall well-being. Adequate sleep and proper stress management techniques are also emphasized to promote hormonal harmony.

Recommendation of Exercise for PCOS

Regular exercise is an essential component of PCOS management. Engaging in activities like brisk walking, swimming, and aerobic exercises can help improve insulin sensitivity and promote weight loss. Yoga, in particular, is beneficial in managing PCOS symptoms and enhancing fertility. The following are some yoga techniques helpful for weight reduction and to decrease blood sugar levels as well. Like: AnulomaViloma, Kapalbhati and Mandukasan. Vyayam (exercise) enhances tissue sensitivity to insulin (80% of the body’s insulin-mediated glucose uptake occurs in muscles).

Ayurvedic Herbal Remedies for PCOS

Ayurvedic herbs play a significant role in managing PCOS. However, it is essential to consult Ayurvedic practitioners to determine the most appropriate herbs based on an individual's specific condition and body constitution. Herbal remedies in Ayurveda are chosen based on their unique properties and effects on the doshas, aiming to restore balance and alleviate PCOS symptoms. Aushadh-Kapha reducing, insulin enhancing, hormone rebalancing, obstruction clearing herbs like Gurmar, Jambu, Tarwar, Guduchi, Amala and Haridra, etc. are useful.

Kanchnar Guggal- being ruksh in guna old Guggal and Kanchnar both decrease fat due to lekhan action. They are vatakapha shamak and pitta kapha shamak respectively.

Methi (Fenugreek - Trigonella foenum graecum) - reduces fasting blood sugar. Infertility Queen.

Karela (Bittergourd - Momordica charantia)- reduces fasting and post-prandial blood sugar and appears to enhance tissue sensitivity to insulin.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)- helps to reduce the stress of amenorrhoea and infertility.

Shatawari (Asparagus racemosus) brings balance and strength to the menstrual system. Marich (Black pepper - Piper nigrum) - high in chromium (chromium picolinate 200-400 mcg /day (an anti-oxidant) can assist in balancing blood sugar level.

Ayurvedic Therapies for PCOS

Ayurvedic therapies can complement herbal remedies and lifestyle changes in managing PCOS. Therapeutic treatments like Abhyanga (Ayurvedic oil massage), Swedana (herbal steam therapy), and Panchakarma (detoxification) can help detoxify the body, improve circulation, and promote hormonal balance.

Why MoyaAjurweda

At MoyaAjurweda, we are dedicated to providing personalized Ayurvedic treatments for PCOS. Our team of experienced Ayurvedic practitioners carefully assess each individual's health condition and design customized treatment plans. We prioritize safety and efficacy in our approach, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care.

Early recognition and intervention, such as weight control, diet, and lifestyle modifications may prevent/delay the development of further complications of PCOS. Ayurveda, the science of life starts with the quote “Swasthasya swasthya rakshanam aaturasya vikar prashmanam cha” (Ch.Su. 30). PCOS seems to be a disorder involving vata, pitta, kapha, medas, ambuvahasrotas, artava dhatu. So these all need to be considered in treatment. PCOS can be prevented/treated with the help of aahar, vihar, and aushadh. 1. Aahar and Vihar - A balanced diet is essential for normal health. Dietetic abnormalities vitiate doshas which cause various gynecological diseases may result in infertility. It also produces a loss of dhatu which influences hormones and causes menstrual irregularity. An abnormal diet hampers the nourishment of fertilized eggs and the implantation of a zygote. - Weight reduction by Pathya / Apathya aahar and Vihar. - Mode of life as suggested in the ritucharya and dincharya should be followed properly.

Conclusion PCOS is a complex hormonal disorder that requires a comprehensive approach for effective management. Ayurveda offers a holistic perspective, emphasizing the importance of balancing the doshas, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and using Ayurvedic herbs and therapies to address the root causes of PCOS. With personalized treatment plans and expert guidance from qualified Ayurvedic practitioners, women with PCOS can experience improvements in their overall health and well-being. However, it is essential to remember that individual results may vary, and consulting qualified Ayurvedic practitioners is crucial for personalized treatment plans. The content provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare.

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