Impact of Ayurvedic treatment on uterine fibroids: A case study.
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Effect of successful ayurvedic treatment in management of uterine fibroid - a case study
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Seema Mehere
Professor and HOD., Dept. of Prasuti Tantra & Stri-roga, Y.M.T Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai
Akanksha Mahesh Naik
3rd Year PG Scholar, Dept. of Prasuti Tantra & Stri-roga, Y.M.T Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Effect of successful ayurvedic treatment in management of uterine fibroid - a case study
Year: 2019
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Uterine fibroids, known as leiomyomas or myomas, are the most common benign tumors of the uterus, affecting at least 20% of women by the age of 30. They can remain asymptomatic or present symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility. This case study details the successful management of a uterine fibroid in a 35-year-old female patient through Ayurvedic treatment, which included herbal medicines and Panchakarma therapy. The patient presented with scanty menses and intermittent abdominal pain, leading to a diagnosis of uterine fibroids via ultrasound.
Ayurvedic Treatment Approach
The patient underwent a comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment plan that included oral herbal medications and Panchakarma therapies. Specific Ayurvedic formulations such as Chandraprabhavati, Gokshuradi Guggulu, and Kumariasava were administered, complemented by procedures like Uttarbasti and Yogabasti for their therapeutic effects. These treatments aimed to balance the body’s doshas, promote detoxification, and reduce the fibroid size. After six months of consistent treatment, significant relief was observed in the patient’s symptoms, with an eventual disappearance of the fibroid as shown in follow-up ultrasounds.
Observations and Outcomes
The treatment led to marked improvements in the patient’s menstrual regularity, alleviating symptoms like hypomenorrhea and abdominal pain. Initial scans indicated the presence of a tiny fibroid, but follow-up evaluations revealed its gradual reduction and eventual absence. Notably, the patient reported complete relief from her complaints, and subsequent ultrasounds over two years indicated no recurrence of the fibroid or related symptoms. This underscores the efficacy of Ayurvedic medicine as supportive therapy in managing uterine fibroids, emphasizing its potential in reducing the necessity for surgical interventions.
Conclusion
The case study illustrates that Ayurvedic treatment can provide significant relief and improvement in managing uterine fibroids, particularly in early-stage cases. The combination of herbal remedies and detoxifying therapies was effective in addressing the patient's symptoms and shrinking the fibroid without surgical intervention. Given these findings, larger clinical trials are warranted to further substantiate the efficacy of Ayurvedic approaches in fibroid management, potentially offering a valuable alternative to conventional treatments and reducing the incidence of surgical solutions.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are uterine fibroids and who is commonly affected?
Uterine fibroids are benign tumors composed of smooth muscle and fibrous tissue. They commonly affect women, with approximately 20% experiencing fibroids by the age of 30.
What Ayurvedic treatments were administered for the patient with fibroids?
The patient received several Ayurvedic oral medicines like Chandraprabha Vati, Gokshuradi Guggul, and Panchakarma treatments including Uttarbasti and Yogabasti, focusing on symptom relief and reducing the fibroid's size.
What were the outcomes after the Ayurvedic treatment for uterine fibroids?
After six months of Ayurvedic treatment, the patient experienced significant relief from symptoms like hypomenorrhea and abdominal pain, with ultrasound results showing no significant abnormalities by the end of treatment.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Impact of Ayurvedic treatment on uterine fibroids: A case study.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Pain:
Pain is a common symptom associated with uterine fibroids, as documented in the case study where the patient experienced occasional abdominal pain. This discomfort was notably alleviated following a six-month Ayurvedic treatment regimen.
2) Medicine:
In the context of this case study, Ayurvedic oral medicines such as Chandraprabhavati, Gokshuradi Guggul, Shatavari Vati, and Haridrakhanda Vati were used in managing uterine fibroid symptoms. These medicinal formulations contributed to the significant relief reported by the patient.
3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine from India, provided the framework for treating the uterine fibroid in the case study. Ayurvedic principles and treatments, including specific oral medicines and Panchakarma therapies, were applied to achieve significant symptom relief and eventual disappearance of the fibroid.
4) Piper longum:
Piper longum, also known as Pippali, was among the ingredients in the Ayurvedic formulations used for treating the uterine fibroid in the patient. This ingredient forms part of compounds like Chandraprabhavati and contributes to their therapeutic effects.
5) Ksharataila (Ksarataila, Kshara-taila):
Ksharataila is one of the taila (oil) formulations used in Uttarbasti, a Panchakarma procedure that was part of the Ayurvedic treatment regimen provided to the patient. This treatment helped in clearing symptoms associated with the uterine fibroid.
6) Akanksha (Akanksa, Akamksa, Akamksha, A-kamksha):
[see source text or glossary: Akanksha]
7) Piper chaba:
Piper chaba, also known as Gajapippali, is an ingredient found in Ayurvedic medicines like Chandraprabhavati. This medicinal plant contributes to the therapeutic properties that alleviated symptoms of uterine fibroids in the documented case study.
8) Commiphora mukul:
Commiphora mukul, commonly referred to as Guggul, is a significant ingredient in Ayurvedic preparations such as Chandraprabhavati and Gokshuradi Guggul. It plays an important role in reducing inflammation and other symptoms associated with uterine fibroids.
9) Striroga (Stri-roga):
Striroga is another term for gynecological diseases within Ayurveda. The case study conducted at the Department of Striroga and Prasuti Tantra, YMT Ayurvedic hospital, involved treating a patient with uterine fibroids successfully using Ayurvedic methods.
10) Haritaki:
Haritaki, or Terminalia chebula, was included in the Ayurvedic formulations given to the patient. This ingredient is known for its various health benefits, including aiding digestion and acting as a laxative, contributing to the overall therapeutic effect.
11) Guggulu:
Guggulu, derived from Commiphora mukul, is a key ingredient in Ayurvedic preparations like Chandraprabhavati and Gokshuradi Guggul. Its anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering properties were utilized in treating the uterine fibroid symptoms.
12) Granthi (Gramthi):
Granthi in Ayurveda refers to any localized nodular swelling, including tumors. Uterine fibroids are considered a type of Granthi (garbhashayagata granthi). The Ayurvedic treatment approach aimed at reducing this pathological formation in the documented case study.
13) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali, which is Piper longum, is an important component in Ayurvedic formulations such as Chandraprabhavati. It was part of the therapeutic regimen that helped alleviate symptoms and treat the uterine fibroid in the patient.
14) Prasuti:
[see source text or glossary: Prasuti]
15) Haridra:
Haridra, known scientifically as Curcuma longa and commonly as turmeric, features in the Ayurvedic treatment plan. Haridrakhanda Vati, one of the given medicines, contains Haridra and is recognized for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.
16) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantra in the context of Ayurveda refers to branches of knowledge, particularly Prasuti Tantra & Stri-Roga, which deals with gynecological and obstetric conditions. The case study took place in this specific department, focusing on Ayurvedic management of uterine fibroids.
17) Kumari:
Kumari, or Aloe Vera, plays a role in the Ayurvedic treatment given to the patient. It is the primary ingredient in Kumariasav, an Ayurvedic preparation that has beneficial effects in gynecological disorders, including uterine fibroids.
18) Family:
[see source text or glossary: Family]
19) Basti:
Basti refers to an enema therapy in Ayurveda, part of Panchakarma cleansing practices. In this case, the patient received Yoga Basti and Uttarbasti as part of the comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment for uterine fibroids.
20) Roga:
[see source text or glossary: Roga]
21) Yoga:
Yoga is part of the term Yoga Basti, a Panchakarma therapy advised in the Ayurvedic treatment regimen. While the term primarily means union or discipline, in this context, it refers to a specific therapeutic procedure.
22) Vati:
Vati (tablet) in Ayurveda refers to pills or tablets made from herbal ingredients. The patient’s treatment included various Vati formulations like Chandraprabhavati and Haridrakhanda Vati, contributing to the relief from uterine fibroid symptoms.
23) Food:
Food is relevant in the case as Kumariasav was prescribed to be taken before food to enhance its absorption and efficacy in treating the uterine fibroid. Proper administration times are crucial in Ayurvedic medicine.
24) Salt (Salty):
[see source text or glossary: Salt]
25) Cinnamomum zeylanicum:
Cinnamomum zeylanicum, known as Dalchini, was among the ingredients in the Ayurvedic medicine Chandraprabhavati used in the case study. It adds to the therapeutic properties of the compound, aiding in the treatment of uterine fibroids.
26) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, also known as Guduchi, was part of the Chandraprabhavati formulation. It is known for its immunomodulating and detoxifying properties, which were beneficial in the treatment regimen for uterine fibroids.
27) Emblica officinalis:
Emblica officinalis, commonly known as Amla, was an ingredient in the Ayurvedic formulations used. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the overall treatment of the uterine fibroid.
28) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, known as Haritaki, was included in the Ayurvedic formulations for treating the uterine fibroid. It is well-regarded in Ayurveda for its detoxifying attributes and beneficial effects on the digestive system.
29) Cinnamomum tamala:
Cinnamomum tamala, also known as Tejpatta, is one of the ingredients in Ayurvedic formulations like Chandraprabhavati. It enhances the therapeutic effects of the medicine, aiding in the successful treatment of the uterine fibroid.
30) Berberis aristata:
Berberis aristata, or Darvi, is among the constituents of Ayurvedic formulations used in this study. Known for its medicinal properties, it played a role in alleviating symptoms and contributing to the regression of the uterine fibroid.
31) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, known as Mustak, is included in the Ayurvedic formulation Chandraprabhavati. Its various health benefits, including improving digestive health, were part of the integrated approach to manage the uterine fibroid.
32) Curcuma longa:
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric or Haridra, is an anti-inflammatory root used in Ayurvedic treatments. It is a primary ingredient in Haridrakhanda Vati, which was part of the regimen that helped treat the uterine fibroid.
33) Rock salt:
Rock salt, or Saindhav Lavan, is an essential mineral ingredient in Ayurvedic formulations such as Chandraprabhavati. It helps balance electrolytes and contributes to the overall efficacy of the treatment.
34) Terminalia bellirica:
Terminalia bellirica, known as Bibhitaki, was part of the Ayurvedic medicine formulations used. Its therapeutic properties supported the treatment process, helping alleviate symptoms and address the underlying uterine fibroid.
35) Tribulus terrestris:
Tribulus terrestris, known as Gokshura, was a critical herb in Gokshuradi Guggul, an Ayurvedic formulation used in the treatment plan. It contributed to the overall success in managing the uterine fibroid’s symptoms.
36) Plumbago zeylanica:
Plumbago zeylanica, or Chitraka, was included in the Chandraprabhavati formulation. This herbal ingredient has various therapeutic effects that were beneficial in treating the uterine fibroid, as evidenced in the case study.
37) Embelia ribes:
Embelia ribes, also known as Vidanga, was used in the Chandraprabhavati formulation. This ingredient is recognized for its therapeutic properties, which played a role in the successful management of the uterine fibroid.
38) Candraprabha (Candra-prabha):
Chandraprabha, part of the Ayurvedic medicine Chandraprabhavati, is a compound formulation used for a variety of health disorders. Its effects were significant in managing and eventually treating the uterine fibroid in the case study.
39) Dysmenorrhea (Dysmenorrhoea):
[see source text or glossary: Dysmenorrhea]
40) Inflammation:
Inflammation, a common symptom of uterine fibroids, was effectively managed using Ayurvedic medicines like Haridrakhanda Vati. Turmeric, one of its components, is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to symptomatic relief.
41) Gajapippali (Gaja-pippali):
[see source text or glossary: Gajapippali]
42) Discussion:
The discussion section analyzes the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatment in managing uterine fibroids, highlighting the positive outcomes in symptom relief and fibroid regression, substantiated by USG scans and patient follow-up.
43) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari, an ingredient in the Ayurvedic medicine Shatavari Vati, acts as a Rasayana dravya, promoting overall health and vitality. Its therapeutic properties were integral to managing the uterine fibroid, as observed in the case study.
44) Shilajit (Silajit, Shila-jit):
Shilajit, a vital component in Chandraprabhavati, contributes to its powerful therapeutic effects, aiding in the successful treatment of the uterine fibroid. Its inclusion is crucial for its restorative and rejuvenating properties.
45) Ativisa (Ativisha):
Ativisha (Aconitum heterophyllium) is another herb included in Chandraprabhavati. Known for its medicinal properties, it played a part in the compound’s overall effectiveness in treating the uterine fibroid in the patient.
46) Bhunimba (Bhu-nimba):
Bhunimba, or Andrographis paniculata, was part of the Chandraprabhavati formulation used. It is known for its broad-spectrum medicinal benefits, including anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties, which were beneficial in the treatment.
47) Gokshura (Goksura, Go-kshura):
Gokshura, scientifically known as Tribulus terrestris, was an essential component in the Gokshuradi Guggul formulation, contributing to the successful management and eventual cure of the uterine fibroid in the patient.
48) Sharkara (Sarkara):
[see source text or glossary: Sharkara]
49) Turmeric:
Turmeric, or Curcuma longa, features prominently in Ayurvedic treatments for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. In this case study, it was a significant component of Haridrakhanda Vati, aiding in the management of uterine fibroids.
50) Lekhana:
[see source text or glossary: Lekhana]
51) Vidanga (Vidamga):
Vidanga, or Embelia ribes, is an ingredient in Chandraprabhavati. Its presence in the Ayurvedic formulation contributed to its efficacy in managing the uterine fibroid, demonstrating the holistic approach of Ayurveda.
52) Shunthi (Sunthi, Sumthi, Shumthi):
Shunthi, known as dry ginger or Zingiber officinale, was included in Chandraprabhavati. Its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties helped manage the symptoms of uterine fibroid, creating a synergistic effect with other ingredients.
53) Trivrit (Tri-vrit, Trivrt):
Trivrit (Operculina turpethum) is a key ingredient in Chandraprabhavati. Its inclusion supports the therapeutic effects of the formulation, playing a role in the comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment plan for uterine fibroids.
54) Samaka (Shamaka):
[see source text or glossary: Shamaka]
55) Shuddha (Suddha):
[see source text or glossary: Shuddha]
56) Tamala:
[see source text or glossary: Tamala]
57) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]
58) Khanda (Khamda):
[see source text or glossary: Khanda]
59) Kumara:
[see source text or glossary: Kumara]
60) Kapha:
[see source text or glossary: Kapha]
61) Rakta:
[see source text or glossary: Rakta]
62) Darvi:
[see source text or glossary: Darvi]
63) Asava (Ashava):
[see source text or glossary: Asava]
64) Ayus (Ayush):
[see source text or glossary: Ayush]
65) Sugar:
[see source text or glossary: Sugar]
66) Pulse:
Pulse rate, recorded during the general examination, was 82 beats per minute. This is a standard part of assessing the patient's baseline health status during medical evaluation and treatment planning.
67) Blood:
Blood investigations, including hemoglobin levels, were conducted as part of the diagnostic process. A hemoglobin level of 10.7 gm% was recorded, which is crucial for understanding the patient’s overall health condition.
68) Vaca:
[see source text or glossary: Vacha]
69) Amla:
Amla, or Emblica officinalis, was an integral part of the Ayurvedic medicine plan. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties contributed significantly to the successful management and resolution of the uterine fibroid.
70) Vida:
[see source text or glossary: Vida]
71) Vata:
[see source text or glossary: Vata]