A literary review of artavakshaya in ayurveda w.s.r. to oligo-hypomenorrhoea
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A literary review of artavakshaya in ayurveda w.s.r. to oligo-hypomenorrhoea
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Yogita Mukund Choudhary, Veena Patil and Varsha Shewale
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: A literary review of artavakshaya in ayurveda w.s.r. to oligo-hypomenorrhoea
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202315-29483
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The health of women is a crucial aspect of overall family and societal well-being. Gynaecological disorders can significantly disrupt a woman's life, with physiological changes beginning from birth and prominently during puberty. One common issue in this domain is Artavakshaya, which refers to a decrease in menstrual blood flow. This condition arises from various factors, including a sedentary lifestyle, stress, and poor nutritional habits, leading to an imbalance in the body's doshas, particularly the vatadi dosha. This review examines Artavakshaya within the framework of Ayurveda, correlating it with modern concepts such as oligomenorrhea and hypomenorrhea.
Understanding Artavakshaya: A Critical Menstrual Disorder
Artavakshaya, characterized by a reduced quantity of menstrual blood, poses a significant concern in women's health. Ayurvedic texts detail observations of menstrual patterns and identify variances as symptoms of broader gynaecological disorders. In particular, Artavakshaya has been linked to various conditions that can precede infertility. Modern medical practices correlate this phenomenon to oligomenorrhea, which involves infrequent menstrual periods, and hypomenorrhea, indicating scanty menstrual bleeding. The prevalence of such disorders highlights the need for effective treatments that address both Ayurvedic and modern medical approaches.
Correlation with Modern Gynecological Disorders
In modern gynecology, oligomenorrhea is recognized as menstrual cycles occurring more than 35 days apart, while hypomenorrhea is defined as unusually scanty bleeding that lasts less than two days. Factors contributing to these conditions can include hormonal imbalances, inadequate nutrition, and various health issues impacting uterine or endometrial function. Treatments in contemporary medicine typically center on lifestyle modifications and hormonal therapies, reflecting an approach that differs from holistic Ayurvedic methods. Essentially, while both systems seek to remedy the underlying issues, Ayurvedic practices aim to restore balance through natural treatments, including dietary adjustments and therapeutic procedures.
Ayurvedic Insights and Treatment Approaches
Ayurveda provides a comprehensive view of the etiopathogenesis of Artavakshaya, attributing the disorder to various doshic imbalances, particularly involving vata and kapha components. The treatment strategy in Ayurveda involves a twofold approach: Nidan parivarjan (elimination of the etiological factors) and Samsodhana (purification methods). Strategies such as Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and specific dietary recommendations play a crucial role in restoring dosha equilibrium and enhancing overall reproductive health. Ayurvedic treatments also emphasize individual dietary choices, which can significantly impact the condition's management and resolution.
Conclusion
Artavakshaya is a complex menstrual disorder that reflects the intricate balance within women's health. Both Ayurveda and modern medicine offer valuable perspectives and treatment modalities. While modern approaches largely focus on symptomatic relief through hormonal therapies, Ayurveda promotes holistic health through dietary regulation and natural remedies. By understanding the fundamental principles of Artavakshaya and applying effective treatments from both perspectives, women can achieve better reproductive health and well-being. The integration of these two approaches offers a promising pathway for addressing critical menstrual health issues among women.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Artavakshaya in Ayurveda?
Artavakshaya refers to a decrease in menstrual blood volume, which is linked to various gynecological disorders. It is a common condition affecting about 30% of women during their reproductive years.
How does a sedentary lifestyle affect menstrual health?
A sedentary lifestyle can increase physical and mental stress, disrupting the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Ovarian axis. This disruption may lead to Artavakshaya and other gynecological disorders.
What modern conditions correspond with Artavakshaya?
In modern gynecology, Artavakshaya can be correlated with conditions like Oligomenorrhea and Hypomenorrhea, characterized by infrequent or scant menstrual bleeding.
What are common treatments for Artavakshaya in Ayurveda?
Ayurvedic treatment for Artavakshaya includes lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, oral medications, and Panchakarma procedures, aiming to restore balance in the body.
What lifestyle factors contribute to Artavakshaya?
Unhealthy food habits, lack of exercise, and high-stress levels lead to vitiation of doshas, disrupting the normal physiology of the reproductive system and contributing to Artavakshaya.
What role does diet play in managing Artavakshaya?
A balanced diet rich in Agneya dravyas can help in managing Artavakshaya by balancing the doshas, enhancing the quality of the menstrual flow and overall reproductive health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A literary review of artavakshaya in ayurveda w.s.r. to oligo-hypomenorrhoea”. 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 a vital aspect of women's reproductive health, indicating physiological functions within the female body. Its characteristics, such as quantity and quality, are critical for assessing various gynecological conditions and overall health in women.
2) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya translates to decrease or deficiency. In the context of gynecological disorders, it signifies a reduction in the normal flow or quantity of menstrual blood (Artavakshaya), which can indicate underlying health issues and impact fertility. Understanding kshaya is essential in diagnosing and treating menstrual irregularities.
3) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of air and space. It governs movement, communication, and bodily functions like circulation and elimination. An imbalance in Vata can lead to various disorders, including menstrual irregularities, by affecting the reproductive system's physiological processes.
4) Kapha:
Kapha is another dosha in Ayurveda, associated with earth and water elements, representing stability, structure, and lubrication in the body. Excessive Kapha can lead to stagnation, potentially causing conditions related to menstrual flow issues, obesity, and low energy levels, underscoring the importance of balance among doshas.
5) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the seven essential bodily tissues in Ayurveda, each serving a critical role in overall health. Balancing dhatus is vital for maintaining physical well-being, and their health directly impacts reproductive functions and menstrual cycles.
6) Rakta:
Rakta refers specifically to blood in Ayurvedic terminology. It plays a significant role in nourishing the body, supporting other dhatus, and maintaining the menstruation cycle. Any deficiency or vitiation in Rakta can lead to issues like Artavakshaya, affecting women's health and fertility.
7) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita denotes clarified butter or ghee, which is considered an important medicinal substance in Ayurveda. It is known for its nourishing and beneficial properties. Ghrita is often used in various therapies to promote reproductive health, aid digestion, and balance the doshas, particularly Pitta.
8) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated refers to conditions where doshas or bodily functions have deviated from their healthy state. In Ayurveda, recognizing vitiation is essential for diagnosing diseases such as Artavakshaya, guiding treatment approaches to restore balance and proper function.
9) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that govern physiological and psychological processes in the body. Maintaining a balance among these doshas is crucial for optimal health, as imbalances can lead to various ailments, including gynecological disorders such as menstrual irregularities.
10) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three main doshas, associated with fire and water elements. It governs digestion, metabolism, and transformation. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to increased heat in the body, causing symptoms like inflammation or excess menstrual flow, highlighting its significance in reproductive health.
11) Dravya:
Dravya is a singular term for substances or medicines, essential in Ayurveda for their healing properties. It encompasses a wide range of natural materials used in formulations for treating various ailments, including those related to female reproductive health and menstrual disorders.
12) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas refers to the channels or pathways through which bodily substances flow. They play a crucial role in maintaining the body's functional integrity. In women's health, srotas related to the reproductive system must function correctly for regular menstruation and overall reproductive well-being.
13) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine focusing on holistic health, emphasizing balance among the body, mind, and spirit. It teaches that maintaining harmony among the doshas, along with lifestyle and dietary practices, is essential for preventing and treating health issues, particularly women's health concerns.
14) Agneya:
Agneya refers to substances that enhance digestion and metabolic processes in the body. In Ayurvedic practice, Agneya dravyas are vital for treating menstrual disorders, as they support the transformation and absorption of nutrients necessary for reproductive health and overall vitality.
15) Basti:
Basti is a therapeutic enema procedure in Ayurveda, used for detoxification and balancing doshas, particularly Vata. It involves the administration of medicated oils and herbal decoctions to the rectum, aiding in the treatment of various conditions, including those affecting the reproductive system.
16) Tila:
Tila, or sesame seeds, are significant in Ayurveda due to their nutritional value and beneficial properties. Tila is often incorporated into herbal formulations and dietary recommendations to enhance reproductive health, promote nourishment, and balance doshas, especially in conditions of kshaya or deficiency.
17) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to bodily fluids or secretions, primarily those involving taste sensations. In Ayurveda, it also pertains to the vital essence derived from food that nourishes the body. The quality and balance of rasa are crucial for maintaining reproductive health and overall well-being.
18) Vaha:
Vaha signifies the carrier or pathway, particularly in the context of srotas. It is essential for the movement and distribution of substances, influencing how nutrients and toxins are processed in the body. Proper vaha ensures optimal flow and function in reproductive and overall health.
19) Avarodha:
Avarodha means obstruction, which can occur within the body's channels (srotas), hindering the flow of essential substances. In terms of gynecological health, avarodhana can lead to hormonal imbalances and menstrual irregularities, making it vital to address in treatment strategies.
20) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation. In the context of gynecological health, modern scientific approaches complement traditional systems, like Ayurveda, to enhance understanding and treatment of conditions affecting women's health.
21) Taila (Thaila):
Taila means oil in Ayurveda and is often used in various treatments for its lubricating and therapeutic properties. Different types of taila can be applied to nourish the body, promote health, and balance doshas, specifically in addressing conditions related to the reproductive system.
22) Diet:
Diet involves the food choices and nutritional practices that play a crucial role in health. In Ayurveda, a balanced diet is essential for maintaining dosha equilibrium and preventing disorders, particularly regarding menstrual health, as what one consumes directly impacts bodily functions.
23) Margavarodha (Marga-avarodha):
Marga-avarodha refers to the obstruction in the pathways (marga) of the body that prevents the proper flow of substances. In the context of gynecological disorders, marga-avarodha can lead to complications like Artavakshaya, emphasizing the importance of addressing any blockages in treatment.
24) Dhatukshaya (Dhatuksaya, Dhatu-kshaya):
Dhatu-kshaya refers to the deficiency or depletion of bodily tissues (dhatus), affecting overall health. In menstrual disorders, dhatu-kshaya can lead to reduced menstrual flow or quality, necessitating treatments aimed at restoring balance and nourishment to vital tissues.
25) Shatapushpa (Satapuspa, Shata-pushpa):
Shatapushpa, or the plant Shatavari, is recognized in Ayurveda for its beneficial effects on women's health. It is used in various formulations for its rejuvenating properties, particularly in treating menstrual disorders and enhancing reproductive vitality.
26) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a state in India known for its rich cultural heritage and practices, including traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The principles of Ayurveda are widely practiced here, influencing health and wellness strategies related to menstrual and reproductive health.
27) Raktadhatu (Rakta-dhatu):
Rakta-dhatu specifically refers to the blood tissue in Ayurveda. It is fundamental for nourishing the body and maintaining health. Adequate Rakta-dhatu is essential for regular menstruation and reproductive health, as any deficiency can lead to conditions like Artavakshaya.
28) Katambhara:
Katambhara is a condition characterized by the absence of menstruation at the appropriate time, indicative of disorders such as amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea. Recognizing this term is crucial for understanding the complexities of menstrual health in Ayurvedic practice.
29) Striroga (Stri-roga):
Stri-roga refers to women's diseases in Ayurveda, encompassing various gynecological and reproductive issues. An understanding of Stri-roga is central to addressing women's health conditions, particularly those related to menstrual irregularities, pregnancy, and reproductive health.
30) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is an esteemed ancient Ayurvedic scholar whose texts provide comprehensive guidelines on health, treatments, and understanding of diseases, particularly related to women's health. His contributions remain influential in Ayurvedic practices today, especially regarding reproductive health.
31) Prasuti:
Prasuti means childbirth or obstetrics in Ayurveda. It encompasses care related to pregnancy, labor, and postpartum health. Understanding prasuti is crucial for providing comprehensive gynecological care, ensuring healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries.
32) Tantra (Tantrism, Tamtra):
Tantra in Ayurveda refers to the specific methodologies or principles associated with diagnosis and treatment. It encompasses a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the importance of balancing body, mind, and spirit in addressing health issues, particularly in women's health care.
33) Modaka:
Modaka refers to a type of Ayurvedic formulation, usually in the form of a sweet or confection. It can have beneficial properties in promoting health and is sometimes used in treatments aimed at enhancing reproductive health and overall vitality.
34) Karma (Karman):
Karmas refer to actions or therapies in Ayurveda aimed at restoring balance and health. Understanding specific karmas is essential for addressing health issues tailored to individual needs, particularly in managing reproductive health.
35) Graha:
Graha signifies a planetary influence or force in Ayurvedic astrology, which can affect health. It encompasses the belief that cosmic factors can impact a person's physical and mental well-being, particularly concerning reproductive health.
36) Ahara:
Ahara means food or diet in Ayurveda, essential for sustaining health. The principles of ahara guide dietary choices to promote balance among the doshas and contribute positively to women’s reproductive health, influencing menstrual cycles and overall wellness.
37) Marga:
Marga refers to the pathways or channels in the body crucial for the flow of energies and substances. Maintaining marga is essential for ensuring proper physiological functions, particularly in the reproductive system where any obstruction can lead to menstrual disturbances.
38) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid responsible for transporting nutrients, oxygen, and waste products throughout the body. In the context of women's health, the quality and quantity of blood are critical for maintaining menstruation health and preventing related disorders like Artavakshaya.
39) Roga:
Roga means disease or disorder in Ayurveda. It encompasses various health conditions, particularly those affecting women, such as menstrual disorders, highlighting the need for effective treatment strategies to restore health and balance within the body.
40) Raja:
Raja denotes menstrual blood in Ayurveda. It is associated with the physiological processes in women and is significant for reproductive health. An understanding of raja is crucial for addressing menstrual and gynecological disorders effectively.
41) Guda:
Guda refers to jaggery or a form of sweetener in Ayurveda, used not only for culinary purposes but also for its medicinal properties. It can enhance formulations aimed at improving overall health and addressing conditions related to menstrual irregularities.
42) Pain:
Pain indicates physical discomfort or suffering that can arise from various health conditions, including menstrual disorders. Recognizing the source and type of pain is essential in Ayurveda for developing effective treatment strategies aimed at alleviating discomfort and restoring balance.
43) Menstrual blood:
Menstrual blood represents the discharge of blood during a woman's menstrual cycle, reflecting the state of reproductive health. Analyzing the characteristics of menstrual blood helps diagnose potential abnormalities and informs treatment options in both Ayurvedic and modern practices.
44) Anuvasanabasti (Anuvasana-basti):
Anuvasana-basti refers to a specific type of enema treatment in Ayurveda that involves the administration of medicated oils or ghee. This treatment is essential for promoting nourishment, alleviating vata-related disorders, and enhancing reproductive health.
45) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasadhatu refers to the essence of food derived from the digestive process, vital for nourishing other bodily tissues. Maintaining healthy rasadhatu is crucial for reproductive health, impacting menstrual function and overall vitality.
46) Substance:
Substance refers to the fundamental materials or components utilized in Ayurvedic formulations, contributing to the efficacy of treatments. Each substance is selected for its specific properties to address health issues effectively, particularly in women's health care.
47) Anuvasana:
Anuvasana refers to the process of administering medicated oils or pastes via enemas. This therapeutic approach is crucial for addressing various health conditions, especially for managing vata imbalances that affect menstrual health and reproductive function.
48) Samprapti:
Samprapti denotes the pathogenesis or process leading to the manifestation of a disease. Understanding samprapti in the context of menstrual disorders helps identify root causes and inform appropriate treatment strategies within Ayurvedic practice.
49) Suffering:
Suffering refers to the physical and emotional distress experienced due to health conditions. In Ayurveda, addressing suffering involves not only alleviating physical symptoms but also treating underlying psychological issues, particularly in women's health contexts like menstrual disorders.
50) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshanas refers to the clinical signs and symptoms that characterize a condition. Recognizing lakshanas is essential in Ayurveda for accurate diagnosis and formulating effective treatment plans tailored to individual health issues.
51) Bleeding:
Bleeding refers to the loss of blood, which can indicate various health conditions. In the context of women's health, understanding the nature and patterns of bleeding is crucial for diagnosing gynecological disorders and formulating appropriate treatments.
52) Avarana:
Avarana signifies obstruction, particularly in the bodily channels. In Ayurveda, it is essential to address avarana to ensure the proper flow of vital substances and to treat conditions like Artavakshaya effectively.
53) Shushka (Suska):
Shushka refers to dryness or lack of moisture in the body, often associated with various medical conditions. In gynecological contexts, shushka can indicate problems like diminished menstrual flow or other reproductive health issues, necessitating appropriate treatments to restore balance.
54) Disease:
Disease indicates a pathological condition disrupting normal bodily functions. In Ayurveda, understanding diseases such as Artavakshaya is essential for diagnosing and designing treatment protocols that restore health and balance.
55) Pramana (Pramanas):
Pramana refers to measurement or quantification in Ayurveda, particularly related to evaluating bodily functions like menstrual flow. Accurate pramana is crucial for diagnosing conditions and determining treatment efficacy.
56) Sevana:
Sevana means the act of consumption or use, particularly concerning medicinal substances. In Ayurvedic medicine, proper sevana of prescribed dravyas is vital in achieving positive health outcomes and managing gynecological disorders effectively.
57) Vihara:
Vihara refers to lifestyle practices, including physical activity, rest, and environmental factors. In Ayurveda, maintaining balanced vihara is essential to prevent health issues, particularly regarding women's reproductive health.
58) Vamana:
Vamana refers to therapeutic emetic therapy in Ayurveda aimed at detoxifying the body by inducing vomiting. It is used to cleanse the system from excess kapha or toxins, aiding in relieving certain menstrual disorders and restoring health.
59) Nidana:
Nidanas are the causes or factors contributing to diseases in Ayurveda. Identifying nidanas is essential for understanding health conditions in depth and crafting effective treatment strategies, particularly for menstrual disorders.
60) Varti (Vartin):
Varti refers to a type of medicated suppository used in Ayurveda to treat specific health concerns. It is often used in gynecological treatments for addressing menstrual disorders and enhancing reproductive health.
61) Shukta (Su-ukta, Sukta):
Sukta refers to medicated preparations often in the form of a drink or infusion used in Ayurvedic treatment. It may include various beneficial herbs aimed at improving overall health and addressing conditions like menstrual irregularities.
62) Badha:
Badha means restriction or obstruction in Ayurveda. In the context of gynecological health, badha can lead to conditions like Artavakshaya, emphasizing the need for treatment strategies that enhance flow and address any barriers to health.
63) Kanji (Kamji):
Kanji refers to a fermented rice or lentil preparation with probiotic qualities. In Ayurveda, kanji is recognized for its health benefits, aiding digestion and promoting overall well-being, which can positively influence reproductive health.
64) Masha (Ma-sha, Masa):
Masha refers to black gram or urad dal, a nutritious legume in Ayurveda. Masha is valued for its health benefits and is often included in diets and recipes aimed at promoting women's health and strength.
65) Sura (Shura):
Sura denotes alcoholic beverages or fermented drinks in Ayurveda. While used in some traditional practices, sura's effects on health, especially in relation to women's reproductive health, require careful consideration in dietary recommendations.
66) Yoni (Yonin):
Yoni refers to the female reproductive organ in Ayurveda. Understanding yoni health is crucial for assessing reproductive health issues, including menstrual disorders, and formulating appropriate treatment strategies.
67) Vati:
Vati refers to tablets or pill forms of Ayurvedic medicines. They are designed for ease of administration and consist of various herbal ingredients aimed at treating specific health concerns, including those related to women's reproductive health.
68) Vayu:
Vayu refers to the air element and is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing movement and circulation. An imbalance of vayu can lead to various health issues, particularly affecting the reproductive system and menstrual health.
69) Kala:
Kala refers to time or cycles, particularly in the context of natural rhythms in Ayurveda, including menstrual cycles. Understanding kala is essential for recognizing the timing of phases in a woman's reproductive health and establishing appropriate treatments.
70) Fish:
Fish is a source of protein and omega fatty acids considered beneficial in Ayurvedic diets. Consuming fish is often recommended for its nutritional value and positive impacts on overall health, including reproductive functions.
71) Life:
Life in Ayurveda embodies a holistic understanding of health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. Maintaining a balanced life through diet, lifestyle, and holistic practices contributes significantly to overall health, particularly in reproductive well-being.
72) Mahakalyanakaghrita (Mahakalyanakaghrta, Mahakalyanaka-ghrita):
Mahakalyanaka-ghrita is a specific formulation of ghrita with therapeutic benefits for women's health in Ayurveda. It is often prescribed to enhance reproductive health and treat menstrual disorders, reflecting the richness of Ayurvedic formulations for addressing feminine health.
73) Kalyanakaghrita (Kalyanakaghrta, Kalyanaka-ghrita):
Kalyanaka-ghrita refers to a medicinal ghee formulation beneficial for promoting reproductive health. Its nourishing properties are particularly targeted at addressing gynecological issues, enhancing vitality, and maintaining balance among doshas.
74) Shatavaryadi (Satavaryadi):
Shatavaryadi refers to formulations including Shatavari and other herbs known for their benefits in women's health. These formulations are aimed at supporting reproductive functions, boosting fertility, and addressing conditions related to menstrual health.
75) Purification:
Purification refers to detoxification processes in Ayurveda aimed at cleansing the body of accumulated toxins. Methods of purification are essential in restoring health, particularly for addressing vitiation and promoting overall well-being, including reproductive health.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 163]
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