A literary review of artavakshaya in ayurveda and modern science

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A literary review of artavakshaya in ayurveda and modern science”. 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) Artava:
Artava refers to menstrual blood or the menstrual cycle in Ayurveda. It is crucial for women's reproductive health and signifies fertility. The regularity and quality of Artava are fundamental markers of a woman's gynecological well-being. Any discrepancies in Artava can lead to conditions like Artavakshaya, which indicates diminished menstrual flow or irregularities in the cycle.

2) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya denotes a decrease or deficiency, particularly in the context of bodily fluids or tissues. In Ayurveda, Kshaya is often used to describe conditions where there's a reduction in Artava, leading to various menstrual disorders. Understanding Kshaya helps identify and address the causes of conditions related to diminished reproductive health.

3) Vata:
Vata is one of the three fundamental doshas in Ayurvedic medicine, primarily associated with movement and physiological functions. It governs bodily processes such as circulation, nerve impulses, and the menstrual cycle. An imbalance in Vata can lead to conditions like Artavakshaya, illuminating its role in gynecological health.

4) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to the plasma layer in Ayurveda, representing the essence of bodily nourishment and vitality. It's crucial for sustaining life and ensuring optimal health. In the context of Artava, Rasa is linked as a foundational dhatu, where its proper functioning affects the menstrual cycle and reproductive health.

5) Nidana:
Nidana signifies the causes or factors contributing to a particular condition or disease. In Ayurveda, identifying Nidana is essential for diagnosis and treatment. For conditions like Artavakshaya, understanding the Nidana allows practitioners to target lifestyle or dietary adjustments that could restore balance and health.

6) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha represents the three biological energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurvedic philosophy, fundamental for maintaining health and wellness. Each dosha influences various physical and mental functions. An imbalance among these doshas can lead to various health issues, including menstrual irregularities and gynecological disorders.

7) Menstrual blood:
Menstrual blood is the discharged fluid from the uterus during the menstrual cycle, serving as a primary indicator of women's reproductive health. Its characteristics (amount, regularity, and duration) are paramount in diagnosing conditions like Artavakshaya, reflecting the overall balance of doshas and dhatus in Ayurveda.

8) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine from India focusing on holistic healing and balancing the body, mind, and spirit. It emphasizes prevention and natural remedies, using concepts like doshas and dhatus. Ayurveda provides extensive insights into women's health issues, particularly related to the menstrual cycle and reproductive disorders.

9) Dhatu:
Dhatus implies the foundational structures or tissues in the body according to Ayurveda, impacting overall health and vitality. Each Dhatu plays a specific role concerning bodily functions, including reproductive health. Assessing Dhatus is vital for understanding and treating conditions like Artavakshaya.

10) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid in the human body, responsible for transporting nutrients, oxygen, and waste products. In Ayurveda, the quality and quantity of blood relate intimately to overall health. In the context of Artavakshaya and menstrual issues, blood characteristics can indicate underlying imbalances in doshas and dhatus.

11) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or clarified butter, is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine as a therapeutic agent. It nourishes the body and balances vata dosha. In managing conditions like Artavakshaya, specific formulations of Ghrita can enhance reproductive health by improving the quality of Artava and promoting hormonal balance.

12) Basti:
Basti refers to a form of Ayurvedic treatment that involves administering medicated oils or herbal solutions rectally. It primarily targets Vata disorders, helping to rejuvenate and restore balance in reproductive health. Basti is particularly beneficial in cases of Artavakshaya by addressing underlying vata imbalances.

13) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with stability, structure, and lubrication within the body. It plays a crucial role in bodily functions and overall metabolism. An imbalance in Kapha can contribute to menstrual irregularities and conditions affecting reproductive health, such as Artavakshaya.

14) Yoni (Yonin):
Yoni is a Sanskrit term referring to the female reproductive organ or womb. In Ayurvedic medicine, Yoni health is vital for women's overall well-being and fertility. Conditions affecting the Yoni can lead to menstrual disorders like Artavakshaya, highlighting the need for care and treatment in this area.

15) Rupa:
Rupa means form or appearance in Sanskrit. In the context of Ayurveda, assessing the Rupa of various bodily excretions, including menstrual blood, is essential for diagnosis. Changes in Rupa can indicate imbalances or conditions needing attention, such as the characteristics observed in Artavakshaya or related disorders.

16) Alpa:
Alpa signifies deficiency or insufficient quantity in Ayurveda. When discussing Artavakshaya, 'Alpa' relates to the scanty amount of menstrual flow. Identifying Alpa in menstrual cycles helps practitioners understand varying degrees of health issues, leading to appropriate treatments aimed at restoring normalcy in menstruation.

17) Anartava:
Anartava refers to the absence of menstruation or amenorrhea in women. In Ayurveda, it is a critical condition indicating a significant reproductive health issue. Understanding Anartava helps differentiate it from other menstrual irregularities, like Kshaya, thus guiding effective treatment strategies for restoring a woman's menstrual health.

18) Shushka (Suska):
Shushka describes a state of dryness or aridity. In Ayurvedic context, Shushka relates to certain conditions of the female reproductive system that may lead to diminished Artava or amenorrhea. Understanding Shushka aids in identifying imbalances that require treatment to restore moisture and normal function in the reproductive system.

19) Taila (Thaila):
Taila refers to oil in Ayurvedic practices, often employed in therapeutic formulations. Various types of oils are utilized for their health benefits, including in treatments for menstrual irregularities such as Artavakshaya. Taila helps to balance doshas and nourish tissues, supporting women's reproductive health.

20) Disease:
Disease signifies a condition that disrupts normal function in the body, leading to discomfort or dysfunction. In Ayurveda, identifying the root cause of a disease is crucial for treatment. Conditions like Artavakshaya necessitate an understanding of any underlying diseases to provide effective holistic remedies.

21) Pramana (Pramanas):
Pramana refers to measurement or quantification in Sanskrit. In Ayurvedic medicine, it's essential to assess the appropriate levels of bodily fluids and functions. In terms of menstrual health, understanding Pramana helps gauge normalcy in menstrual flow, informing diagnoses and treatments for conditions such as Artavakshaya.

22) Sevana:
Sevana means 'to consume' or 'to take.' In the context of Ayurveda, it often refers to the consumption of particular foods or medicines beneficial for health. Proper Sevana of nourishing and balancing substances can help in addressing conditions like Artavakshaya, promoting menstrual regularity.

23) Vataja (Vata-ja):
Vataja indicates conditions arising from an imbalance in Vata dosha, such as disturbances in bodily functions. In relation to menstrual issues, Vataja conditions can manifest as irregularities or deficiencies in menstrual flow. Addressing Vataja imbalances is essential for restoring health in women's reproductive systems.

24) Rakta:
Rakta refers to blood or the vascular system in Ayurveda. It plays a critical role in sustaining life by transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. The health of Rakta directly impacts menstruation and reproductive function, making it a focal point in evaluating and treating menstrual disorders like Artavakshaya.

25) Ahara:
Ahara means sustenance or food in Ayurveda, and it plays a fundamental role in health and well-being. Proper Ahara influences dosha balances and the overall health of dhatus, including Rasa and Artava. A suitable dietary approach is crucial for managing conditions like Artavakshaya and promoting reproductive health.

26) Roga:
Roga represents disease or disorder in Ayurveda, encompassing various health conditions. It indicates a deviation from the norm that requires attention and treatment. Understanding different Rogas, especially related to women's health, guides practitioners in identifying and managing issues like Artavakshaya effectively.

27) Vati:
Vati refers to medicated tablets or pills in Ayurveda. These are formulated to address specific health issues, including menstrual disorders. Employing Vati can aid in treating conditions like Artavakshaya by providing concentrated herbal benefits that balance doshas and support reproductive health.

28) Pain:
Pain (Vedana) is a crucial indicator of physical or emotional distress in Ayurveda. It can manifest in various forms, including menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea) associated with Artavakshaya. Understanding the nature and cause of pain helps practitioners address underlying imbalances and provide relief through appropriate treatments.

29) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasa-dhatu embodies the first tissue layer in Ayurveda, crucial for nourishment and vitality. Its health directly influences other dhatus, including Artava. A deficiency in Rasa-dhatu can lead to insufficient menstrual flow, necessitating treatments aimed at improving its quality and quantity, reflecting on overall women's health.

30) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari, a revered herb in Ayurveda, is known for its health benefits related to women's reproductive health. It helps balance hormonal levels, enhance fertility, and improve the quality of Artava. Incorporating Shatavari into treatment plans can be effective for conditions like Artavakshaya, supporting women's wellness.

31) Striroga (Stri-roga):
Stri-roga refers to gynecological diseases or disorders in women. Understanding Stri-roga is vital for identifying and treating issues like Artavakshaya and other menstrual irregularities. Ayurvedic approaches targeting Stri-roga aim to restore health and balance to female reproductive systems through holistic methodologies.

32) Suffering:
Suffering signifies the physical or emotional distress experienced due to health imbalances or diseases. In Ayurveda, recognizing the source of suffering, particularly in women's health, such as with Artavakshaya, is essential for developing effective treatment plans aimed at alleviating discomfort and restoring wellness.

33) Upadhatu:
Upadhatu implies secondary tissues or substances derived from the primary dhatus in Ayurveda. Artava is considered an Upadhatu of Rasa dhatu, emphasizing its role in reproductive health. Understanding Upadhatu is vital for diagnosing and treating related conditions like Artavakshaya, thereby addressing menstrual health issues.

34) Bleeding:
Bleeding relates to the physiological process of expelling blood, particularly during menstruation. In Ayurveda, the nature and quantity of bleeding provide crucial insights into a woman's gynecological health. Irregular or scanty bleeding, as seen in Artavakshaya, can indicate underlying imbalances needing correction.

35) Prasuti:
Prasuti denotes childbirth or delivery in Ayurveda. It encompasses various factors contributing to female reproductive health, including healthy menstrual cycles. Understanding Prasuti is essential for addressing conditions like Artavakshaya, as it affects fertility and women's overall reproductive capabilities.

36) Bandhya:
Bandhya refers to conditions of infertility or inability to conceive in Ayurveda. It highlights the link between reproductive health and menstrual regularity. Exploring the pathophysiology of conditions like Artavakshaya can help in understanding Bandhya, leading to appropriate Ayurvedic interventions for enhancing fertility.

37) Science (Scientific):
The Science refers to the systematic study and understanding of phenomena, including human health and diseases. In Ayurveda, integrating scientific principles enriches the understanding of traditional practices, offering evidence-based insights in diagnosing and treating conditions like Artavakshaya and other health disorders.

38) Dravya:
Dravya means a material or substance with therapeutic efficacy in Ayurveda. This includes a broad range of components used to develop formulations aimed at restoring health. In managing conditions like Artavakshaya, various Dravyas may be employed to restore balance and alleviate menstrual issues.

39) Tantra (Tantrism, Tamtra):
Tantra refers to a system or method in Ayurvedic practices guiding diagnosis and treatment. It encompasses tools and techniques to restore balance in the body. In addressing conditions like Artavakshaya, Tantra focuses on holistic approaches to enhance health, emphasizing bodily functions and their relationships.

40) Vedana:
Vedana signifies sensation or perception, especially concerning pain and discomfort. In Ayurveda, understanding Vedana is crucial when diagnosing conditions affecting the menstrual cycle. While evaluating symptoms of Artavakshaya, practitioners look at various forms of Vedana to ascertain the nature and impact of the disorder.

41) Vihara:
Vihara refers to lifestyle or activities that impact health in Ayurveda. Proper Vihara includes practices that promote balance and well-being, whereas improper Vihara can lead to health issues, including menstrual disorders. Emphasizing healthy Vihara is critical in addressing and preventing conditions like Artavakshaya.

42) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas denotes the channels or pathways through which bodily substances flow in Ayurveda. Proper functioning of Srotas is essential for maintaining health, including menstrual health. Any obstruction or dysfunction in Srotas can lead to conditions like Artavakshaya, emphasizing the need for regularity in reproductive functions.

43) Pitta:
Pitta represents one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with transformation and metabolism. It governs digestion, energy production, and hormonal balance. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to menstrual irregularities and conditions affecting women's health, such as Artavakshaya, highlighting the need for careful management.

44) Campu:
Campu is a traditional Ayurveda text or script that provides essential knowledge on various medical practices and treatments. It includes insights into women's health and disorders. Reference to Campu may offer relevant methodologies for treating conditions like Artavakshaya, integral to understanding Ayurvedic approaches to gynecological health.

45) Guda:
Guda refers to jaggery, a traditional sweetener used in Ayurveda. It is often included in medicinal formulations for its health benefits, including improving blood quality and digestion. Guda can be part of treatments for menstrual disorders like Artavakshaya, enhancing overall health and supporting reproductive functions.

46) Katambhara:
Katambhara describes a particular condition related to delayed menstruation or irregularities in the menstrual cycle. In Ayurvedic texts, it signifies a need for diagnosis and treatment. Understanding Katambhara helps practitioners target specific symptoms associated with menstrual disorders, including those seen in Artavakshaya, guiding effective management.

47) Pravritti (Pravrtti):
Pravritti refers to the natural or regular occurrence of processes within the body. In the context of Ayurveda, maintaining regular Pravritti is vital for health. Disruptions in menstrual Pravritti, such as seen in Artavakshaya, indicate underlying imbalances that require attention and treatment to restore normalcy.

48) Samprapti:
Samprapti denotes the pathogenesis or the process by which a disease develops in Ayurveda. Understanding Samprapti helps practitioners identify the root causes of conditions like Artavakshaya, guiding effective treatment strategies that address the underlying factors contributing to menstrual disorders.

49) Avarodha:
Avarodha signifies obstruction or blockage in Ayurveda, particularly concerning bodily functions and channels. In relation to menstrual health, Avarodha can result in reduced or irregular menstrual flow, necessitating treatment aimed at restoring normal flow and removing any underlying obstructions affecting feminine health.

50) Sthanika:
Sthanika refers to localized or targeted treatments in Ayurveda. It emphasizes the need for specific therapies aimed at particular areas or organs, such as the uterus in the case of conditions like Artavakshaya. Sthanika treatments can effectively address the localized imbalances affecting menstrual health.

51) Vishesha (Visesa):
Vishesha means special or specific in Sanskrit. In the context of Ayurveda, Vishesha refers to particular characteristics or conditions that require tailored treatments. Understanding Vishesha can help practitioners design effective treatment plans for conditions like Artavakshaya, addressing specific symptoms and underlying issues.

52) Samhita:
Samhita refers to a collection or compilation of texts in Ayurvedic literature that encompasses theories, practices, and treatments. Ayurvedic Samhitas are pivotal in guiding practitioners in understanding women's health issues, particularly related to menstrual cycles and disorders such as Artavakshaya.

53) Avarana:
Avarana signifies the act of covering or concealing in Ayurveda. In the context of menstrual health, Avarana indicates the obstruction or concealment of menstrual flow, calling for attention to identify the causes behind it. Addressing Avarana is vital for restoring a healthy menstrual function.

54) Prakopa:
Prakopa indicates the aggravation or increase of doshas or symptoms in Ayurveda. In terms of women's health, Prakopa of Vata or Pitta can lead to menstrual irregularities like Artavakshaya. Managing Prakopa through dietary and lifestyle changes is essential for achieving balance and alleviating associated symptoms.

55) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Astanga refers to the eight branches of Ayurveda, encompassing various fields, including internal medicine, surgery, and pediatrics. The Astanga approach provides a comprehensive understanding of health and disease, including the treatment of women's health issues by enabling practitioners to address complex conditions like Artavakshaya holistically.

56) Shukra (Sukra):
Shukra signifies the male reproductive fluid or sperm in Ayurveda and plays a role in fertility and reproductive health. Its proper functioning is vital for conception. Understanding Shukra helps contextualize menstrual health issues, as conditions like Artavakshaya may impact female reproductive capabilities.

57) Agneya:
Agneya refers to substances or treatments that stimulate digestive fire (Agni) in Ayurveda. These enhance metabolic processes and nourish the body. Agneya herbs or ligands are valuable in treating conditions like Artavakshaya, fostering optimal digestion and improving overall physiological balance.

58) Kshina (Ksina):
Kshina indicates a state of deficiency or wastage in Ayurvedic terminology, often associated with health deterioration. In the case of Artavakshaya, identifying Kshina helps practitioners understand the loss of menstrual fluid or reproductive health, emphasizing the need for restorative treatments to bring balance back.

59) Varti (Vartin):
Varti refers to cylindrical medicated cones used in local treatments in Ayurveda, targeting specific areas of the body, particularly in gynecology. Varti can be effective for alleviating symptoms of conditions like Artavakshaya, promoting healing and restoring normalcy in menstrual function through localized treatment.

60) Tila:
Tila is a Sanskrit term for sesame seeds, utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for their numerous health benefits. Rich in nutrients, Tila is often included in formulations to promote hormonal balance and improve reproductive health, making it a valuable addition to treatments for menstrual disorders like Artavakshaya.

61) Vayu:
Vayu refers to the principle of air or wind in Ayurveda, symbolizing movement, circulation, and bodily functions. An imbalance in Vayu can lead to various health issues, including those affecting menstrual cycles. Understanding Vayu is critical for managing reproductive health and restoring harmony in the body.

62) Vaha:
Vaha signifies pathways or channels in Ayurveda, through which doshas, dhatus, and srotas operate. Proper functioning of Vaha is essential for maintaining health and preventing disorders. Any obstruction or imbalance in Vaha can contribute to menstrual irregularities such as Artavakshaya, highlighting the interconnectedness of body systems.

63) Kala:
Kala indicates time or cycles in Ayurveda, often associated with physiological processes like menstruation. Understanding Kala is crucial for recognizing the normal cadence of bodily functions and the timing of menstrual cycles, allowing practitioners to identify irregularities or delays indicating health issues.

64) Life:
Life represents the essence of existence in Ayurveda, focusing on balance and harmony in physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. Maintaining life through proper lifestyle choices and treatments is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic philosophy, ultimately aiming to ensure health and longevity in a holistic manner.

65) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation refers to an uncomfortable or painful feeling often associated with certain health conditions. In terms of gynecological health, a burning sensation may indicate inflammation or infection in the reproductive organs, prompting an evaluation of underlying issues related to menstrual health, such as in Artavakshaya.

66) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha indicates one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, signifying the composition of moisture and solidity in the body. Managing Kapha-dosha is essential for women's health, as imbalances can lead to menstrual irregularities and reproductive challenges, as evidenced in conditions like Artavakshaya.

67) Human life:
Human life represents the holistic experience, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. In Ayurveda, preserving human life through balance and health is paramount. The intricacies of human experiences, especially concerning reproductive health, are extensively explored in Ayurvedic texts to provide comprehensive healthcare methodologies.

68) Sthanasamshraya (Sthanasamsraya, Sthana-samshraya):
Sthana-samshraya denotes the concept of localization in Ayurvedic medicine, indicating how diseases can localize in specific anatomical areas. Understanding Sthana-samshraya is essential when diagnosing and treating conditions like Artavakshaya, focusing on the site of dysfunction within the reproductive system.

69) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is a classical Ayurvedic text authored by Sushruta, focusing on surgical techniques and medical treatments. It provides crucial insights into various conditions, including women's health issues like Artavakshaya. Referencing the Sushruta-samhita is vital for understanding traditional approaches to gynecological problems.

70) Ashtangasamgraha (Astangasamgraha, Astangasangraha, Ashtanga-samgraha, Ashtanga-sangraha, Ashtangasangraha):
Astanga-sangraha is another fundamental text in Ayurveda written by Vagbhata, encompassing various aspects of Ayurvedic philosophy and practice. It serves as an essential guide for practitioners addressing health and disease, including women's health issues like Artavakshaya, offering extensive knowledge related to treatment methodologies.

71) Margavarodha (Marga-avarodha):
Marga-avarodha denotes obstruction in the pathways (marga) of the body, which can impede normal physiological functions. In relation to gynecological health, Marga-avarodha can contribute to conditions like Artavakshaya, emphasizing the need for identifying and treating these obstructions to restore regular menstrual flow.

72) Shatavaryadi (Satavaryadi):
Shatavaryadi refers to formulations containing Shatavari and other beneficial herbs valued in Ayurveda for promoting women's health and balancing hormones. These formulations are instrumental in treating conditions like Artavakshaya. They nourish and support the reproductive system, enhancing overall gynecological well-being.

73) Mahakalyana (Maha-kalyana):
Maha-kalyana represents an extensive aspect of wellness in Ayurvedic philosophy aimed at achieving optimal health and balance. This concept emphasizes comprehensive care strategies that can address numerous health concerns, including those related to reproductive health, such as Artavakshaya, advocating for a holistic approach to wellness.

74) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease primarily affecting the lungs but can have implications for overall health. In Ayurvedic practice, understanding the effects of tuberculosis on the body can aid in comprehending its influence on reproductive health and menstrual disorders like Artavakshaya, allowing for integrated treatment approaches.

75) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition refers to deficiencies in essential nutrients required for optimal health. In Ayurveda, malnutrition profoundly affects the balance of doshas and dhatus, resulting in various health issues, including menstrual irregularities like Artavakshaya. Identifying malnutrition is vital for developing effective treatment strategies.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 154]