Ayurvedic treatment and counseling for failed IUI in oligoasthenozoospermia.
Journal name: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
Original article title: A comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment along with counseling in oligoasthenozoospermia with previous intrauterine insemination failure-A case report
The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine (JAIM) is an open-access publication promoting collaboration between Ayurveda, traditional medicine, and biomedicine, publishing research on integrative health sciences
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Vandana K. Vasudevan, Parvathy Unnikrishnan, Anjaly Muraleedharan, Hemavathi Shivapura Krishnarajabhatt
Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine:
(A monthly peer-reviewed publication)
Full text available for: A comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment along with counseling in oligoasthenozoospermia with previous intrauterine insemination failure-A case report
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2020.05.007
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
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Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic treatment and counseling for failed IUI in oligoasthenozoospermia.”. 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) Anxiety:
Anxiety refers to a psychological state characterized by excessive worry or fear that can impact mental and physical health. In the context of male infertility, anxiety can exacerbate issues like oligoasthenozoospermia, contributing to a cycle of stress that undermines reproductive success. Effective treatment often involves addressing anxiety to improve overall outcomes.
2) Table:
Tables in academic and medical reports often present data in a structured format for ease of understanding. In this context, the table outlines the patient’s medical history, interventions, and outcomes. It serves to systematically convey critical information that supports the case report's findings, enabling better comprehension of the treatment timeline and results.
3) Male:
The term 'male' is crucial in discussing infertility, as the case report centers on a male patient experiencing oligoasthenozoospermia, a condition characterized by low sperm motility and count. Male infertility accounts for a significant percentage of infertility cases globally, emphasizing the importance of targeted male reproductive health interventions.
4) Quality:
Quality in the context of semen refers to several factors including sperm motility, morphology, and overall functionality. The quality of semen is pivotal for natural conception, and improving it can significantly enhance chances of fertility. Both qualitative and quantitative assessments are essential in diagnosing and treating male infertility.
5) Shukra (Sukra):
Shukra is a term from Ayurveda that refers to reproductive tissue or essence responsible for fertility and sexual vitality. Conditions like oligoasthenozoospermia relate to imbalances in shukra. Ayurvedic treatment seeks to restore shukra through various therapies, addressing both physiological and psychological components of fertility.
6) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana means purification in Ayurveda. It is a foundational principle aimed at detoxifying the body to restore balance. In this case, the patient underwent shodhana therapy as part of the treatment regimen, which included cleansing therapies that improve bodily functions and prepare the body for further therapeutic interventions.
7) Madhura:
Madhura means sweet in Sanskrit and reflects a specific taste associated with certain Ayurvedic drugs. This quality influences the properties and effects of herbal substances. In formulations targeting fertility, madhura rasas are beneficial for nourishing the reproductive system and enhancing overall health.
8) Samana (Shamana):
Shamana is a concept in Ayurveda representing palliative or balancing therapies aimed at alleviating symptoms and restoring equilibrium. In the case report, shamana chikitsa (therapeutic treatment) follows purification therapies to provide continuous support to the patient’s health, addressing both mental and physical wellness.
9) Siddhi:
Siddhi denotes achievement, accomplishment, or perfection in Sanskrit. In Ayurvedic practices, siddhi is often associated with the attainment of optimal health or the successful completion of therapeutic protocols. The case report reflects the concept by aiming to achieve significant improvements in the patient’s seminal parameters and emotional state.
10) Amrita (Amrta):
Amrita, meaning immortality or nectar, signifies substances that confer life or health benefits in Ayurveda. The concept points to balancing elements that ultimately support the body's healing processes. Integrating amrita-like properties in treatment can enhance the efficacy of herbal combinations for fertility and overall health.
11) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven fundamental tissues in the body responsible for various biological functions in Ayurveda. They play a vital role in maintaining health, and their balance is essential for fertility. The treatment aims to enhance dhatu quality and promote the healthy formation of reproductive tissues.
12) Agni:
Agni is the vital energy for digestion and metabolism in Ayurveda. It represents the body’s digestive fire that transforms food into energy and sustains bodily functions. A strong agni is crucial for reproductive health, and improving it is a significant aspect of treating male infertility in this case.
13) Sign:
Sign refers to clinical indicators or manifestations observed during medical assessments. In the case report, signs like reduced motility and anxiety symptoms were critical in diagnosing the patient's condition. Evaluating these signs helped tailor an effective treatment approach encompassing psychological and physiological elements.
14) Drug:
In the context of this report, drugs refer to herbal remedies used in Ayurvedic treatment protocols. These formulations aim to restore balance, enhance semen quality, and alleviate anxiety. Understanding the role of specific drugs in treatment allows for a more effective integrative approach to fertility management.
15) Purification:
Purification, or shodhana, is a therapeutic process aimed at detoxifying the body to enhance health and well-being. In Ayurveda, it prepares the body for subsequent treatments, making it crucial for patients with fertility issues like oligoasthenozoospermia. Purification practices can improve bodily functions and restore reproductive health.
16) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine from India focused on promoting health and wellness through natural means. It emphasizes balance in body, mind, and spirit. The case report exemplifies how Ayurvedic principles and treatments can address male infertility through a holistic and individualized approach.
17) Samhita:
Samhita refers to a compilation or collection of knowledge in Sanskrit. In Ayurveda, texts like the Charaka Samhita contain extensive information on medicinal practices and health principles. These texts serve as essential references for practitioners to guide treatment approaches, ensuring adherence to traditional knowledge and methods.
18) Snigdha:
Snigdha translates to 'unctuous' or 'oily' in Sanskrit. In Ayurveda, snigdha qualities are believed to nourish tissues and promote lubrication within the body. Treatments incorporating snigdha properties aim to balance dryness and deficiency, fostering better health outcomes, especially in therapies for male infertility.
19) Mashadi (Masadi):
Mashadi refers to a specific herbal powder mentioned in Ayurvedic texts, associated with enhancing vitality and reproductive health. The mashadi choornam used in the case report is formulated to improve seminal parameters and is part of the treatment protocol aimed at addressing male infertility effectively.
20) Dipana:
Dipana denotes the concept of enhancing digestion in Ayurveda. Improving dipana through specific herbal formulations is crucial as it prepares the body for better nutrient absorption and metabolism, ultimately supporting reproductive functions. It plays a significant role in the holistic management of infertility.
21) Sthana:
Sthana means seat or location in Sanskrit. In Ayurvedic texts, sthana refers to the places or systems within the body where certain disorders can manifest. Understanding sthana helps practitioners effectively target treatments based on localized health issues, contributing to more effective and focused therapeutic strategies.
22) Mridu (Mrdu):
Mridu means 'gentle' or 'soft' in Sanskrit. It is often used in the context of therapies that are mild and easy on the body. Mridu virechana, a gentle purgation process mentioned in the case, is essential for cleansing the gastrointestinal tract without causing excess stress to the patient.
23) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrta refers to clarified butter or ghee, a significant substance in Ayurvedic medicine. It is often used in therapeutic preparations due to its nourishing properties and ability to balance doshas. Its inclusion in treatments aims to restore vitality and support various bodily functions, including fertility.
24) India:
India is the origin of Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine that emphasizes holistic health. The case report is set within this cultural context, showcasing the relevance and application of Ayurvedic principles in addressing male infertility, precipitating a greater interest in its practices both locally and globally.
25) Food:
Food constitutes an essential aspect of health and well-being in Ayurveda. It is not just sustenance but a means to nourish the body, influencing overall health. Dietary recommendations are pivotal in treatment protocols, supporting digestion, enhancing dhatu, and ultimately improving reproductive health.
26) Gandharvahastadi:
Gandharvahastadi is a term referring to a specific Ayurvedic formulation used in the treatment of male reproductive issues. Its inclusion in therapeutic protocols indicates the importance of utilizing traditional herbal remedies to support fertility and aid in restoring the balance within the reproductive system.
27) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura-rasa translates to a 'sweet taste' in Ayurveda. This concept suggests that sweet-tasting foods and herbs have nourishing and calming properties. Integrating madhura-rasa ingredients can be beneficial in treatment protocols aimed at enhancing reproductive health and overall vitality, promoting balance in bodily functions.
28) Reliability:
Reliability in medical contexts refers to the consistency and dependability of outcomes in diagnosis and treatment. In this case report, assessing the reliability of therapeutic interventions and their impact on seminal parameters and anxiety levels is essential for validating the effectiveness of the described Ayurvedic approach.
29) Prakshepa (Praksepa):
Prakshepa denotes a component or adjunct added to a primary treatment in Ayurveda, like sugar in medicinal powders. It enhances palatability and aids in digestion, making herbal treatments more appealing. Proper use of prakshepa can improve compliance and overall effectiveness of the therapeutic regimen.
30) Suffering:
Suffering commonly refers to the physical and emotional distress faced by individuals dealing with infertility. In this context, the psychological aspect of male infertility is explored, highlighting how symptoms of anxiety and stress can impact overall well-being and necessitate integrative treatment approaches.
31) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga refers to the practice of Ayurvedic oil massage that nourishes the body and promotes relaxation. In the case, it is part of a holistic treatment strategy aimed at reducing stress and enhancing vitality, playing a key role in supporting the overall treatment protocol for male infertility.
32) Brimhana (Brmhana):
Brimhana means 'nourishing' in Ayurveda, specifically aimed at promoting strength and vitality. It applies to therapeutic strategies that restore energy and improve the body's ability to function optimally. The case employs brimhana principles to enhance reproductive health and combat conditions such as oligoasthenozoospermia.
33) Lakshana (Laksana):
Laksana signifies the signs or indications of specific conditions in Ayurveda. Recognizing laksana is crucial for diagnosis and tailoring appropriate treatments, particularly in complex medical scenarios like infertility, where the signs guide practitioners in their therapeutic strategies.
34) Parinama:
Parinama refers to transformation or change in Ayurveda, encompassing the body's processes of maintaining health and transitioning through different states. Therapeutic interventions often aim to facilitate positive parinama, particularly regarding dust or dsahita, influencing the treatment outcomes for conditions like infertility and its related issues.
35) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi is an ancient city in India, often regarded as a center for learning, spirituality, and traditional medicine, including Ayurveda. The mention of Varanasi signifies the cultural and historical significance of the practices discussed in the case report, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of Ayurvedic medicine.
36) Koshtha (Kostha):
Koshtha refers to the state of the gastrointestinal tract in Ayurveda, emphasizing its role in digestion and absorption. Proper management of koshtha is essential for enhancing agni and ensuring effective nutrient transformation, a key consideration when addressing male infertility through dietary and therapeutic interventions.
37) Channel:
Channels in Ayurveda refer to the pathways through which substances flow in the body. Maintaining the health of these channels is vital for effective nutrient delivery and waste elimination. The case report emphasizes the importance of channel health in the context of reproductive and overall health.
38) Dravya:
Dravya means substance or matter, particularly related to herbal and medicinal formulations in Ayurveda. The term signifies the importance of choosing the right dravya for effective treatment outcomes. Proper understanding of various dravyas is crucial in formulating effective remedies for health conditions, including male infertility.
39) Makara:
Makara translates to a crocodile and is often used in Ayurveda as a metaphor for strength and vitality. While not directly referenced in conventional medicine, the symbolic meaning underscores the importance of robust health and vigor in both reproductive health and broader wellness contexts.
40) Eranda (Eramda):
Eranda refers to the castor oil plant used in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. In this case, eranda is used in the context of virechana therapy to promote purification and detoxification, playing a role in restoring balance and improving the patient’s reproductive health.
41) Gopala (Go-pala):
Gopala is a name associated with the divine or the protector of cows, often reflecting nurturing qualities. Its use in contexts like Ayurveda invokes a sense of harmony and strength inherent in nature's gifts, highlighting the spiritual connections between traditional wellness practices and health.
42) Vipaka:
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effect of foods and herbs in Ayurveda. Understanding vipaka is crucial for tailoring treatments that enhance health and reproductive functions. The concept ensures that holistic approaches account for the transformations that substances undergo during digestion and their subsequent impact on the body.
43) Kshina (Ksina):
Kshina translates to 'decreased' or 'wasted' in Sanskrit and is often used in relation to weakened or diminished bodily states. In the context of male infertility, kshina specifically reflects the condition associated with reduced sperm count and motility, underscoring the necessity for targeted therapeutic interventions.
44) Pitta:
Pitta embodies one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing heat, metabolism, and transformation. It plays a significant role in digestion and bodily functions. An imbalance in pitta can contribute to fertility issues, highlighting the need for interventions that restore dosha balance for reproductive health.
45) Taila (Thaila):
Taila refers to oil in Sanskrit and is frequently used in Ayurvedic therapies for its nourishing properties. Oil plays a critical role in treatments, such as abhyanga, promoting softness, flexibility, and vitality, which are essential for overall health. It also aids in balancing the doshas.
46) Kumar:
Kumar is a common name in India that can denote youth or male progeny. In the context of the case report, it emphasizes the relevance of addressing male reproductive health and infertility issues, highlighting the social and familial implications surrounding these conditions.
47) Pilla:
Pilla is a term used in various Indian languages, often meaning 'young child' or 'boy.' Its use in the context emphasizes the long-standing cultural significance of male offspring, and the resultant pressures faced by men experiencing fertility issues. It underscores the importance of addressing male infertility holistically.
48) Rules:
Rules pertain to the guidelines and protocols established in clinical practice, particularly concerning patient treatment. Following standards of practice ensures that therapeutic interventions align with established medical knowledge, thereby enhancing the safety and efficacy of approaches in addressing conditions like male infertility.
49) Cita:
Sitha refers to sugar in the context of Ayurveda and is often included as a practical addition to formulations to enhance taste and aid absorption. The properties of sitha make it an important component in herbal remedies intended to support health and balance within the body.
50) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa translates to taste in Sanskrit and plays a significant role in Ayurveda, influencing the therapeutic effects of substances. Different rasas affect the doshas and body functions variably, emphasizing the importance of including appropriate tastes in treatment plans to achieve balance and enhance health.
51) Yoga:
Yoga in its broader sense refers to a discipline encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual practices aimed at achieving balance and harmony. In Ayurveda, yoga can support wellness, enhance mental well-being, and contribute to fertility health, which are crucial for addressing male infertility cases.
52) Tara:
Tara refers to a star or celestial body, often symbolizing guidance, aspirations, and illumination in cultural contexts. Its use within Ayurvedic practices reflects the holistic aspects of healing, where treatment is envisioned to guide individuals toward improved health outcomes and fulfilling their life potentials.
53) Guna:
Guna refers to the qualities or attributes of substances and therapies in Ayurveda. These qualities guide practitioners in selecting appropriate herbs and treatment modalities. Understanding gunas is essential in creating personalized treatment plans that address imbalances specifically associated with conditions like male infertility.
54) Life:
Life in the context of Ayurveda represents health and vitality. The holistic approach aims to enhance the quality of life through balanced doshas and well-managed diets and therapies. The emphasis on life quality informs the treatment of conditions like infertility, underscoring the interconnectedness of physical and emotional health.
55) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, commonly known as ashwagandha, is an important herb in Ayurveda recognized for its adaptogenic properties. It promotes vitality, reduces stress, and enhances overall health. Its inclusion in fertility protocols indicates its relevance for alleviating anxiety and boosting reproductive health in male patients.
56) Peer review:
Peer review is a critical assessment process that evaluates research and scholarly work by individuals within the same field. It ensures the credibility, quality, and academic rigor of published studies, fostering trust and improvement in scientific literature, including those related to medical interventions in reproductive health.
57) Tribulus terrestris:
Tribulus terrestris is a plant used in traditional medicine, often valued for its potential to enhance male reproductive health. In Ayurvedic practices, it is recognized for its aphrodisiac properties and its role in improving fertility parameters, making it a relevant substance in treating male infertility.
58) Madhyamakoshtha (Madhyamakostha, Madhyama-koshtha):
Madhyama-koshtha refers to a moderate state of the gastrointestinal tract in Ayurveda. It plays an integral role in digestion and health management, indicating a balanced condition essential for optimal nutrient absorption and overall functionality, including reproductive health in the context of infertility treatments.
59) Kashayadravya (Kasayadravya, Kashaya-dravya):
Kashaya-dravya denotes a category of medicinal substances characterized by their astringent taste and properties. These dravyas are employed in detoxification and purification therapies in Ayurveda, essential for restoring balance within the body and addressing conditions like male infertility effectively.
60) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation refers to the process of change in physical or physiological states. In Ayurveda, this concept is crucial for understanding how treatments influence health and fertility. Interventions aim to facilitate positive transformations in bodily functions, which is key in addressing infertility issues.
61) Siddhisthana (Siddhi-sthana):
Siddhi-sthana represents a point of achievement or accomplishment within Ayurvedic practices. Understanding the concepts associated with siddhi-sthana informs the treatment principles that practitioners employ to guide patients towards successful health outcomes, particularly in complex conditions like infertility.
62) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis refers to an infectious disease predominantly affecting the lungs, but it can impact reproductive health. Although the case report notes a negative family history, recognizing the potential effects of tuberculosis on male fertility emphasizes the importance of comprehensive health assessments in reproductive care.
63) Vaishvanara (Vaisvanara):
Vaishvanara refers to a specific type of digestive herbal formulation in Ayurveda, aimed at enhancing metabolic processes. Its role in treatment protocols is fundamental for improving digestion and supporting reproductive health, making it vital in addressing issues like male infertility effectively.
64) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yashtimadhu, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a significant herb in Ayurveda recognized for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Its inclusion in treatments helps alleviate conditions related to stress and anxiety, which are key factors in male infertility cases, enhancing overall treatment effectiveness.
65) Avarasatva (Avara-satva):
Avara-satva refers to a moderate mental strength or capacity according to Ayurvedic principles. Understanding a patient's avara-satva allows practitioners to tailor treatments that not only address physical health concerns but also support mental and emotional well-being, which is critical in cases of infertility.
66) Namputiri:
Namboothiri is a reference to a lineage of scholars and practitioners in Ayurveda particularly in Kerala, India. They have contributed significantly to the preservation and development of Ayurvedic medicine, emphasizing the importance of tradition and knowledge in modern contexts, including reproductive health treatments.
67) Kaphavata (Kapha-vata):
Kapha-vata is a combination of two doshas representing physiological qualities in Ayurveda. In the context of male infertility, assessing the balance or imbalance of kapha and vata helps in formulating targeted interventions that promote harmony within the body and enhance fertility outcomes.
68) Discussion:
Discussion sections in clinical reports facilitate an exploration of findings in relation to existing literature and theories. In this case report, the discussion addresses the psychosocial factors influencing infertility and emphasizes the significance of integrative approaches in treatment, highlighting the importance of holistic care.
69) Reflecting:
Reflecting refers to the process of considering and evaluating experiences and outcomes in light of established understanding. In medical case reports, reflecting on the treatment process and its efficacy helps to iteratively improve practices and develop evidence-based strategies for conditions like male infertility.
70) Purvakarma (Purvakarman, Purva-karman):
Purvakarma encompasses preparatory procedures in Ayurvedic treatments aimed at establishing the body for subsequent therapies. These preparatory steps are essential before advanced therapeutic approaches, ensuring that the patient's body is in optimal condition to absorb and respond effectively to treatment protocols.
71) Ashvagandha (Asvagandha, Ashwagandha, Ashvagamdha, Ashva-gandha):
Asvagandha, or Withania somnifera, is an important adaptogen in Ayurveda known for its stress-reducing properties. It contributes to improving overall vitality and reproductive health, making it a respected herb in male infertility treatments, reflecting its significance in enhancing both physical and mental wellness.
72) Prakarana:
Prakarana refers to a systematic procedure or methodology within Ayurveda. This concept reflects the organized approach essential for efficiently applying therapeutic interventions. Each prakarana is tailored to specific health concerns, guiding practitioners in selecting the most appropriate treatments for conditions like male infertility.
73) Anulomana:
Anulomana signifies facilitating smoother bodily functions, particularly regarding digestion and metabolic processes. In Ayurveda, achieving anulomana is vital for optimal health, enabling the body to function efficiently. This concept underpins treatment protocols that aim to restore balance and improve overall well-being.
74) Substance:
Substance refers to the various materials utilized in therapeutic formulations. In Ayurveda, understanding the properties and effects of different substances is critical for creating effective medicines. Each substance's role must align with the treatment goals, particularly in addressing complex health issues such as infertility.
75) Madhyama:
Madhyama denotes a moderate or balanced state, particularly relevant in assessing the condition of an individual. In Ayurvedic practice, defining madhyama states helps practitioners tailor interventions that restore balance and optimize health, specifically in addressing issues related to male infertility.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 116]
Other Ayurveda Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Ayurvedic treatment and counseling for failed IUI in oligoasthenozoospermia.’. Further sources in the context of Ayurveda might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Agnivardhana, Lifestyle modification, Counseling, Therapeutic intervention, Oligoasthenozoospermia, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, Shodhana Treatment, Kshina Shukra, Assisted reproductive technique, Ayurvedic management protocol, Integrative approach, Male infertility, Brimhana therapy, Dhatu parinama, Natural conception, Psychological impact of infertility, Symptoms of anxiety, Mashadi choornam, Vata pitta prakriiti, Cryotechnology.