Ayurvedic Syrups for a Balanced Menstrual Cycle

Menstruation is a natural process in the female body as a part of the reproductive cycle. It involves the shedding of the uterine lining approximately every 28 days, although it can vary between 21-35 days. It is controlled by hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, and involves the ovaries, uterus, and hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis, preparing for the potential pregnancy.  

Menstrual irregularities can cause discomfort, inconvenience, and even anxiety for many women. While Western medicine offers several options, some women may prefer to explore natural remedies, such as Ayurvedic syrups for irregular periods. In this blog post, we will explore some of the Ayurvedic syrups that can help regulate menstruation and offer detailed information on what and how menstruation works in Ayurveda.

4 Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

1. Menstrual Phase: When bleeding occurs, usually lasting between 3-7 days.
2. Follicular Phase: Begins on the first day of menstruation and lasts 10-14 days. During this phase, the pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries.
3. Ovulatory Phase: Around day 14 of the menstrual cycle, the ovulatory phase occurs when a mature egg is released from one of the follicles in the ovaries. This is known as ovulation.
4. Luteal Phase: The last phase, for around 14 days, occurs after ovulation. The empty follicle in the ovary, known as the corpus luteum, releases progesterone, which helps prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy.

Ayurvedic Approach to Menstruation  

Ayurveda views menstruation as a natural and healthy process that reflects the balance or imbalance of the three doshas, or body types: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. According to Ayurveda, menstrual irregularities or discomforts are often caused by imbalances in one or more doshas, which can be corrected through natural remedies and lifestyle changes.  

• Vata Imbalance: Causes irregular periods, scanty bleeding, and menstrual cramps. This can be triggered by stress, anxiety, and irregular eating or sleeping habits.
• Pitta Imbalance: Causes heavy bleeding, excessive heat, and inflammation in the reproductive system. This can be triggered by factors such as excessive consumption of spicy, sour, or salty foods and stress and anger.
• Kapha Imbalance: Causes a sluggish or delayed menstrual cycle, excessive bleeding and bloating. This can be triggered by a sedentary lifestyle, excessive consumption of heavy, oily, or sweet foods, and lack of exercise.

Other factors that can contribute to irregular menstruation in Ayurveda include a buildup of toxins (ama) in the reproductive system and imbalances in the subtle energies (prana and tejas) that govern reproductive health.  

In contrast, conventional Western medicine tends views menstruation as a purely physiological process that can be managed with medications- birth control pills or procedures, such as ablation or hysterectomy.  

Ayurveda believes that menstrual irregularities could have physical and emotional components and offers a holistic approach to addressing them. Herbs, supplements, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications can help balance the doshas and support overall health and well-being. 

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Factors that Cause Irregular Menstruation  

According to the National Institute of Health, 14-25% of women have irregular menstrual cycles. This means that the duration of the menstrual cycle, the amount of bleeding, and the time between periods can vary from process to cycle. Some women may experience irregular menstruation occasionally, while others may have irregular cycles frequently. Possible causes of irregular menstruation include:  

1. Hormonal imbalances: Changes in the levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can cause irregular periods. This can happen during puberty, perimenopause, and menopause, as well as due to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid disorders.
2. Lifestyle factors: Stress, extreme weight loss or gain, and excessive exercise can disrupt the menstrual cycle.
3. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can cause irregular menstruation.
4. Medications: Hormonal contraceptives and certain antidepressants can affect the menstrual cycle.

Irregular menstruation makes it difficult to predict ovulation and sometimes difficult to get pregnant. If you are experiencing irregular menstruation, it is recommended that you speak to your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.  

Also Read: Ayurvedic Approach to Treating PCOS 

Benefits of Ayurvedic Syrups for Irregular Menstruation  

Ayurvedic Syrups for irregular menstruation can be beneficial for maintaining menstrual health and promoting a regular cycle. Some potential benefits of Ayurvedic syrups for menstrual health include the following:  

1. Regulating cycle: Ayurvedic syrups may help regulate the menstrual cycle by balancing the three doshas and supporting hormonal balance.
2. Reducing menstrual discomfort: Many ayurvedic syrups have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help relieve menstrual cramps, making periods less uncomfortable. Ayurvedic herbs such as Ashoka, Shatavari, and Lodhra may help reduce cramps, bloating, and other menstrual discomforts.
3. Supporting healthy menstrual flow: Ayurvedic herbs such as Dashmool and Guduchi may help support healthy menstrual flow by promoting healthy circulation and detoxification.
4. Nourishing the reproductive system: Ayurvedic herbs such as Shatavari and Guduchi may help nourish the reproductive system and promote fertility.
5. Promoting stress relief: Some Ayurvedic herbs and ingredients, such as Brahmi and Jatamansi, may help promote stress relief and emotional balance, which can benefit menstrual health.

In case of extreme discomfort, have a online Ayurvedic consultation from your safe space.   

Ayurvedic Syrups for a Healthy Menstrual Health  

1. Himalaya Evecare Syrup  

The syrup supports women's reproductive health. It is a uterine tonic and hormone balancer for women. It contains herbs such as Ashoka, Lodhra, and Shatavari, which help balance hormones and promote emotional balance. This blend of herbs also helps to regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce menstrual discomfort, support healthy menstrual flow, and nourish the reproductive system. Additionally, Evecare contains herbs such as Dashmool and Guduchi, which promote healthy circulation and detoxification.

2. Dabur Mensta Syrup  

 It is a natural remedy for menstrual irregularities and cramps. It contains a blend of herbs such as Ashoka, Lodhra, and Shatavari, which support hormonal balance, nourish the reproductive system, and reduce menstrual cramps and bloating. Additionally, Dabur Mensta Syrup may promote emotional balance and reduce stress, which can benefit menstrual health. 

3. Charak M2 Tone Syrup  

This Ayurvedic syrup for irregular menstruation supports women's reproductive health. It is formulated with a blend of herbs and natural ingredients such as Ashoka, Lodhra, and Shatavari, traditionally used in Ayurveda to support menstrual health and regulate menstrual cycles. It is also claimed to have antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from damage and improve overall health.  

4. Baidyanath Sundari Sakhi Syrup  

It is a natural remedy for menstrual irregularities, cramps, and other menstrual disorders. It supports menstrual health and regulates menstrual cycles. Some key ingredients in Baidyanath Sundari Sakhi Syrup include Ashoka, Shatavari, Lodhra, and Guduchi. The Sundari Sakhi Syrup has antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from damage and improve overall health.  

Even though these ayurvedic syrups for irregular periods may benefit overall reproductive health, it is still advisable to connect with Ayurvedic practioner before using any new herbs or supplements, as the benefits depend on the individuals and their specific health care.

Other Ayurvedic Remedies for Menstruation   

The Ayurvedic treatment is tailored depending on the individual's dosha imbalance. Ayurveda recommends several lifestyle practices to support a healthy menstrual cycle, including:  

1. Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
2. Regular exercises, such as yoga or walking, support circulation and promote healthy digestion.
3. Practising stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, to support a healthy balance of the doshas.
4. Using herbs and spices, such as ginger, turmeric, and ashwagandha, to support hormonal balance and ease menstrual discomfort.
5. Following a regular self-care routine, including abdominal massage with warm oils, to support healthy menstrual flow.
6. Performing detoxification (panchakarma) from an Ayurvedic practitioner to balance doshas

Conclusion  

In conclusion, Ayurvedic syrups for irregular periods can potentially provide benefits for maintaining women's menstrual health, supporting hormonal balance, reducing menstrual discomfort, promoting healthy menstrual flow, and nourishing the reproductive system. For women suffering from various reproductive issues, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques, to support overall menstrual health. Connect with an Ayurvedic practitioner and Panchkarma specialist Dr Shivani Nautiyal at Healthy Bazar for online consultation to get information on female health issues and a balanced life for optimal living.