Ayurvedic Approach to Treating PCOS

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. The human body functions in a way that everything is interrelated. Therefore, if one system doesn't perform well, it may cause multi-system pathogenesis. PCOS is related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. An imbalance in hormones, specifically a higher level of androgens (male hormones) and insulin resistance lead to the formation of small cysts on the ovaries. If not treated or maintained, it can lead to several health risks, including infertility, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.   

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that originates from India and has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of health conditions, including PCOS. Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS aims to restore balance to the body, reduce inflammation, and improve hormonal imbalances.  

Let's dive deep into understanding PCOS from an Ayurvedic perspective and how it can be cured.  

Ayurveda and PCOS  

In Ayurveda, PCOS is considered a disorder that affects the balance of the three Doshas, specifically Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The imbalance in the Doshas leads to a dysfunction in the Rasa, Rakta, and Meda Dhatus (Elements). The Srotas (channels) affected by this disorder are Rasa ( Water Element), Rakta (Blood), and Arthavavaha (Mensturation), which results in symptoms such as Anarthava (amenorrhea), Vandhyathwa (infertility), Pushpagni (absence of ovulation) and Abeeja rituchakra (anovulatory bleeding).  

What are the Symptoms of PCOS?  

Ayurveda recognizes PCOS as "Rujukarah" and offers various treatments to manage the symptoms. Here are some of the common symptoms of PCOS that Ayurveda recognizes and how it addresses them:  

1. Menstrual disorders  

PCOS primarily produces oligomenorrhea (fewer menstrual periods) or amenorrhea (no menstrual periods). Still, other types of menstrual disorders may also occur, like white discharge, abdominal pain, UTI (Urinary tract infection), etc.  

2. High levels of male hormones  

The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can lead to increased oil production in the skin, which can contribute to the development of acne. Additionally, PCOS can also cause hirsutism (excess hair growth) and hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) on different body parts, like the face, chest, and back.  

3. Metabolic syndrome  

Women with PCOS often have characteristics of metabolic syndrome, including abdominal obesity, high insulin levels, and difficulty responding to insulin. This puts them at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and endometrial cancer.  

4. Infertility  

This generally results directly from chronic anovulation (lack of ovulation) because of PCOS. In addition, the ovaries may develop small cysts, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and making ovulation less predictable.  

The Dominance of Ayurvedic Doshas can Cause-Specific Symptoms 

• Patients with a dominance of Kapha may experience symptoms such as weight gain, difficulty with fertility, hirsutism, and a tendency towards diabetes.
• Patients with a dominance of Pitta may experience hair loss, acne, painful menstrual periods, blood clots, and heart issues.
• Patients with a dominance of Vata may experience painful menstrual periods, a small amount of menstrual blood, and severe irregularity in their menstrual cycles.

Treatment According to Ayurvedic Principles  

In Ayurvedic medicine, the approach to treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is to balance the doshas, the three fundamental energies that govern the body. This can be done through diet, lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and yoga or meditation.  

1. According to Ayurveda, the first step in treating PCOS is to reduce the Kapha dosha, which is responsible for weight gain and insulin resistance. This can be done by following a low-carb, low-fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
2. Herbal remedies such as ashwagandha, licorice root, and turmeric may also be used to balance the doshas and reduce symptoms such as irregular periods and acne.
3. Ayurveda also recommends yoga and meditation to reduce stress and improve overall health. Certain yoga poses, such as viparita karani and shirsasana can help to regulate menstrual cycles and improve insulin sensitivity.
4. It is important to note that Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS is typically a long-term approach and may take several months to see significant improvement. Therefore, it's always better to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment.

Also read: How Sexologists Can Help in Solving Sex Relates Issues 

Ayurvedic line of Treatment   

The treatment plan for patients with PCOS is based solely on their symptoms. Three main categories of symptoms are disturbances in menstrual cycles, symptoms caused by high levels of male hormones, and infertility. A thorough examination, including a detailed medical history, is crucial for diagnosing.  

Various Ayurvedic Treatment Plan for PCOS includes:  

1. Nidanparivarjana   

Eradication of causative factors is the initial treatment of any disease. Improper dietary habits should be corrected, and the consumption of foods high in sugar and processed foods such as pizza, burgers, and cold drinks should be avoided. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as daily exercise, yoga, and breathing exercises can aid in weight loss and regulate hormones.  

2. Samshodhana  

Samshodhana is a method of removing waste products or toxins from the body through the mouth or anus. This process and other purification measures can also clear any blockages in the menstrual channels.  

3. Yogbasti (medicated enema)   

The use of Yogbasti, with Tila Taila and Dashmoola Kwatha, in conjunction with oral medications such as Rajapravartni Vati, Pushpadhnva Rasa, and Phalagrita, are some of the ayurvedic medicines for PCOS that have been shown to have a significant impact on patients.  

4. PCOS-related subfertility  

Subfertility due to Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome can be effectively treated with Ayurvedic herbs and medications such as Triphala, Chandraprabha Vati, Manibhadra Churna, Shatavari, Shatapushpa, and Guduchi, combined with the use of Jeera water and Atibala and Shatapushpa powder, as well as Rasayana Kalpa.  

5. Yoga  

Practicing yoga for 30 minutes daily, including 4 Asanas, 4 Pranayama, meditation, and Shavasana, can help with weight loss and managing stress. In addition, this can help regulate the normal function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and treat PCOS.  

Please note- The mentioned medications and therapies should only be taken under the guidance and observation of an Ayurvedic practitioner.  

Ayurvedic medicine for PCOS  

1. Kanchnara Guggulu - Kanchnara Guggulu helps in maintaining the healthy functioning of female reproductive organs and balances the hormone-reducing symptoms of PCOS like heavy menstrual bleeding, amenorrhea, ovarian cysts, and facial hair growth. It is also effective in improving fertility.   

2. Pushpadhanva Rasa - It is made with a combination of herbs such as ashwagandha, shatavari, amalaki, bala, and guduchi. These herbs help regulate the menstrual cycle, improve fertility, and reduce other PCOS symptoms.    

3. Nashtapushpantaka Rasa - This formulation is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hormonal balancing properties, which help to balance hormones.   

4. Rajah Pravartani Vati - It helps in balancing hormones, improves ovulation, and regulates the menstrual cycle. The herbs present in the medicine have been traditionally used to reduce the symptoms associated with PCOS.   

5. Aarogyavardhini Bati - It treats various health issues, such as PCOS, obesity, digestive disorders, urinary tract infections, and various skin conditions. It is a combination of different herbs and minerals that help to regulate hormones and improve overall health.   

6. Chaturbeeja Choorna - An Ayurvedic herbal powder that helps to balance female hormones. It is prepared with a combination of herbs that helps to reduce androgens, improve ovarian function, and regulate hormones. It also reduces acne, excessive hair growth, and other symptoms related to PCOS.   

7. Varunadi Kashaya - It is an Ayurvedic herbal decoction that helps to balance hormones and reduces the symptoms of PCOS, and the risk of infertility.  

Conclusion

PCOS has become a common issue. According to a survey, 1 in 10 women before menopause struggle with it. Ayurveda is a natural approach, which makes it a safe and effective way to treat PCOS. However, it is important to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure that the treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs and that any potential interactions with other medications or health conditions are considered. Healthybazar has some of the most experienced ayurvedic doctors online consultations, connect with PCOS and Neuromuscular disorder specialist Dr Durgesh Nandini BAMS, MS (Ayurvedacharya). She will assess your current health and develop a treatment plan that melds Ayurvedic treatment with other options to meet your needs.