Shoditha Hingu in Managing Kastarthava (Primary Dysmenorrhoea)
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Effect of Shoditha Hingu (Ferula Asafoetida Linn) Prayoga in the Management of Kastarthava (Primary Dysmenorrhoea) - A Case Report
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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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Dysmenorrhea is a prevalent gynecological condition affecting women of all ages, with varying degrees of severity and frequency. Estimates indicate that the prevalence ranges from 45% to 95%, often making it a significant source of discomfort and morbidity. This condition is categorized into primary dysmenorrhea, which occurs without any identifiable organic disease, and secondary dysmenorrhea, linked to identifiable conditions like endometriosis or fibroids. The Ayurvedic perspective on dysmenorrhea identifies it with the term "Kastartava," suggesting a connection to the upward movement of certain doshas (Vata and Kapha) leading to severe pain during menstruation.
Importance of Hingu in Treatment
One of the key Ayurvedic treatments highlighted in the management of primary dysmenorrhea is the use of "Hingu" (Ferula asafoetida Linn). Known for its properties of alleviating Vata dosha, inducing menstruation (Artavajanaka), and relieving pain (Shoolaprashamanam), Hingu is a significant ingredient in both classical and contemporary Ayurvedic formulations. The study presents a case where an 18-year-old female with chronic dysmenorrhea was treated over three months with purified Hingu, showcasing its effectiveness in reducing abdominal and back pain associated with menstruation. The treatment involved administering 500 mg of Shoditha Hingu thrice daily before meals, particularly during the first two days of menstruation.
Quality of Life Improvement through Ayurvedic Intervention
The positive influence of Ayurvedic treatment using Shoditha Hingu in improving the quality of life for the patient was notable. Despite prior unsuccessful treatments and reliance on modern medications with temporary relief, the patient experienced significant reductions in menstrual pain, achieving the ability to engage in daily activities and attend college without discomfort. Follow-ups indicated a gradual decrease in pain intensity, with assessments showing a transition from Grade 2 (moderate pain) to Grade 1 (mild pain), aligning with a general trend of stability in pain reduction post-treatment. This illustrates the potential of Ayurvedic approaches like Shoditha Hingu in effectively managing primary dysmenorrhea.
Conclusion
The findings of the study support the correlation of primary dysmenorrhea with Ayurvedic concepts such as Kastartava and Udavartini Yonivyapada, influenced by the upward movement of doshas causing severe pain. The administration of Shoditha Hingu showed promising results in alleviating symptoms, highlighting not only its effectiveness but also its safety and affordability. The absence of adverse effects further underscores the potential of Ayurvedic remedies in providing relief for menstrual disorders, with Shoditha Hingu emerging as a viable, cost-effective treatment option in the management of primary dysmenorrhea.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Shubha M
Associate Professor, Department of Streeroga and Prasoothi tantra, Sushrutha Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital, Prashanti Kuteera jodi Bingipura, Jigani Hobli, Anekal, Taluk, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Effect of Shoditha Hingu (Ferula Asafoetida Linn) Prayoga in the Management of Kastarthava (Primary Dysmenorrhoea) - A Case Report
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i6.847
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is primary dysmenorrhea and its prevalence among women?
Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain without any underlying organic disease. It affects a significant number of women, with prevalence estimates ranging from 45% to 95%, making it a common gynecological disorder in women of reproductive age.
How was Shoditha Hingu used to treat dysmenorrhea in the study?
Shoditha Hingu, which is Ferula asafoetida purified in ghee, was administered at a dose of 500 mg three times a day before meals on the first two days of menstruation for three months. It aimed to alleviate pain associated with primary dysmenorrhea.
What were the results of using Shoditha Hingu in the treatment?
The treatment with Shoditha Hingu showed significant relief in abdominal and back pain during menstruation. The reduction in pain was stable over three months without adverse effects, indicating its effectiveness and safety as a remedy for primary dysmenorrhea.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Shoditha Hingu in Managing Kastarthava (Primary Dysmenorrhoea)”. 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 significant symptom in dysmenorrhoea, characterized by severe abdominal and back pain during menstruation. The reduction of pain in affected patients is a primary goal of treatments studied, including the administration of Hingu-processed remedies.
2) Dysmenorrhea (Dysmenorrhoea):
Dysmenorrhea is another term for dysmenorrhoea, describing the menstrual pain that may vary from mild to severe and is a significant concern in gynecological health.
3) Hingu (Himgu):
Hingu (Ferula asafoetida) is an ayurvedic treatment known for its properties like Vatanulomana (regulating Vata), Artavajanana (inducing menstruation), and Shoolaprashamanam (alleviating pain). It was used in the study to manage primary dysmenorrhoea.
4) Ferula asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida):
Ferula asafoetida, also known as Hingu, is a plant used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat symptoms such as menstrual pain. Its components, including Ferutinin, have beneficial properties for addressing conditions like primary dysmenorrhoea.
5) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient medical science from India that describes various treatments for gynecological disorders, including dysmenorrhoea. Ayurvedic practices use herbs like Hingu to manage symptoms by balancing bodily doshas.
6) Kashtartava (Kastartava, Kashta-artava):
Kashtartava is an Ayurvedic term for painful menstruation, which correlates with primary dysmenorrhoea. Treatments like Hingu administration aim to alleviate the intense pain associated with Kashtartava.
7) Vata:
Vata dosha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for all movements in the body. Imbalances in Vata are main contributors to dysmenorrhoea, leading to upward movements of Vata and associated pain.
8) Food:
In the treatment described, Hingu is administered before food to maximize its effects on regulating Vata and reducing pain associated with menstrual cramps, based on Ayurvedic guidance.
9) Disease:
Disease in the context of the study refers to conditions like primary dysmenorrhoea without identifiable organic causes, where symptomatic treatment aims to alleviate pain without addressing a specific underlying pathology.
10) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or clarified butter, is used in the Ayurvedic purification process of Hingu, enhancing its therapeutic properties for treating conditions like primary dysmenorrhoea.
11) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee, a form of clarified butter, is used for frying Hingu in the treatment regimen, aiding in its purification (Shodhana) to enhance its efficacy in managing menstrual pain.
12) Menstrual blood:
Menstrual blood flow is affected in conditions like primary dysmenorrhoea, where upward-moving Vata hampers its release, causing pain. Hingu helps in regulating this flow by promoting downward movement.
13) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha refers to one of the three Ayurvedic bodily humors that, when imbalanced, can contribute to conditions like dysmenorrhoea. Treatments aim to balance this dosha for symptom relief.
14) Karnataka:
Karnataka is a state in India where the study was conducted, specifically at Sushrutha Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital in Bengaluru.
15) Artava:
Artava refers to menstrual fluid in Ayurvedic texts, pivotal in diagnosing and treating menstrual disorders like dysmenorrhoea. Proper movement and expulsion of Artava are crucial for alleviating symptoms.
16) Shubha (Subha):
Shubha M is the author of the study, serving as an Associate Professor at the Department of Streeroga and Prasoothi tantra, Sushrutha Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital, Karnataka.
17) Family:
Family history was significant in the case study, as the patient's elder sister also suffered from primary dysmenorrhoea, suggesting a possible genetic or familial predisposition to the condition.
18) Blood:
Blood, specifically menstrual blood, is a focal point in the management of dysmenorrhoea, where treatments are aimed at ensuring its proper and painless expulsion during the menstrual cycle.
19) Jodi:
Jodi refers to the locality Prashanti Kuteera jodi Bingipura, Jigani Hobli, where the Sushrutha Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital is situated. The study took place in this region.
20) Purification:
Purification, or Shodhana, is an Ayurvedic process used to enhance the medicinal properties of substances. In this study, Hingu was purified by frying it in ghee to make it suitable for treating primary dysmenorrhoea.
21) Shakavarga (Sakavarga, Shaka-varga):
Shaka-varga refers to vegetable groups recommended in Ayurvedic dietetics. In the treatment, dietary advice including Shaka-varga was given to support the patient's overall health and treatment efficacy.
22) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pittadosha is another Ayurvedic bodily humor involved in digestion and metabolism. Imbalances may exacerbate conditions like dysmenorrhoea. Some treatments seek to balance Pitta alongside Vata and Kapha.
23) Discussion:
The Discussion section of the study outlines the effectiveness of Hingu in alleviating pain due to primary dysmenorrhoea and includes a comparative analysis with other Ayurvedic treatments.
24) Padmasana (Padma-asana):
Padmasana is a Yoga posture recommended as part of the Pathya Vihara (lifestyle advice) in the treatment plan. It helps in managing symptoms of dysmenorrhoea by promoting bodily balance and relaxation.
25) Apanavayu (Apana-vayu):
Apanavayu is a subtype of Vata dosha that governs downward movements, including childbirth and menstruation. Dysmenorrhoea involves the dysregulation of Apanavayu, which treatments like Hingu aim to correct.
26) Vajrasana (Vajra-asana):
Vajrasana is another Yoga posture included in the Pathya Vihara lifestyle recommendations. It aids in managing menstrual pain by facilitating better digestion and calming the body.
27) Mamsarasa (Mamsa-rasa):
Mamsarasa, which refers to meat broth, is part of the Pathya Ahara (dietary recommendations). It is included to provide essential nutrients, supporting the patient's recovery and treatment efficacy.
28) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vatadosha refers to one of the three essential doshas in Ayurveda that, when imbalanced, leads to conditions like dysmenorrhoea. Treatments aim to normalize Vatadosha to alleviate symptoms.
29) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the disturbance or imbalance of doshas, which is central to the pathophysiology of dysmenorrhoea. The study focuses on alleviating symptoms by correcting Vata and other dosha vitiations.
30) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is an ancient Ayurvedic scholar whose texts provide guidelines on treatments including the use of Hingu for various conditions. The study follows these traditional recommendations for managing dysmenorrhoea.
31) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana, or purification, is a significant process in Ayurveda where substances like Hingu are treated to enhance their medicinal properties. This process makes the substance safe and effective for treating ailments like dysmenorrhoea.
32) Madhyama:
Madhyama refers to moderate or average quality. In the patient's personal history, Madhyama is noted alongside other lifestyle factors, providing a comprehensive understanding of her condition.
33) Yoniroga (Yoni-roga):
Yoniroga encompasses gynecological disorders in Ayurveda. Dysmenorrhoea falls under this category, where treatments aim to normalize Vata and other doshas to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
34) Vomiting:
Vomiting can be a systemic symptom associated with severe dysmenorrhoea. Ayurvedic treatments aim to address these broader symptoms by balancing the doshas and enhancing overall digestive health.
35) Katurasa (Katu-rasa):
Katurasa, meaning pungent taste, is a property of Hingu that contributes to its effectiveness in Ayurvedic treatments for balancing doshas and alleviating symptoms like menstrual pain.
36) Nandini (Namdini):
Nandini refers to a brand of cow’s ghee used in the study for frying Hingu. This form of ghee was chosen for its purity and supportive properties in the purification process of Ayurvedic treatments.
37) Chedana:
Chedana, or scraping action, is one of the beneficial properties of Hingu mentioned in Ayurvedic texts. It helps in cleansing bodily channels, which is therapeutic in the context of dysmenorrhoea.
38) Draksha (Draksa):
Draksha, or grapes, is part of the Pathya Ahara (wholesome diet) recommended in the treatment. It provides nutritional support to improve the overall health of patients undergoing Ayurvedic treatments.
39) Vyayama:
Vyayama means exercise, and avoiding excessive exertion is recommended during the treatment of dysmenorrhoea. Proper Vyayama is essential to maintain balance and ensure effective recovery.
40) Dharana:
Dharana refers to the practice of holding or retaining urges. Avoiding Vega-dharana (retention of natural urges) is advised during treatment to ensure the free movement of Vata and alleviate dysmenorrhoea symptoms.
41) Lashuna (Lasuna):
Lashuna, or garlic, is part of the Pathya Ahara suggested in the treatment. It has properties that support digestion and Vata regulation, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
42) Apathya:
Apathya refers to the non-wholesome dietary recommendations to be avoided. Fast food, bakery products, chips, and biscuits are some of the Apathya Ahara listed in the treatment advice to prevent worsening of symptoms.
43) Shuddha (Suddha):
Shuddha means purified, as in the Shuddhahingu (purified Ferula asafoetida) used in the treatment. Purification enhances the efficacy and safety of Hingu in managing primary dysmenorrhoea.
44) Tankana (Tamkana):
Tankana, also known as borax, is an ingredient in some Ayurvedic formulations for treating dysmenorrhoea due to its supportive properties in balancing body humors and alleviating pain symptoms.
45) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantra refers to the knowledge or techniques central to Ayurvedic practice. The Department of Tantra, or specialized therapy, plays a role in implementing effective treatment strategies for gynecological disorders.
46) Vihara:
Vihara refers to lifestyle modifications. Patients are advised to follow specified Pathya Vihara, including certain Yoga postures and avoiding heavy exertion as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy for dysmenorrhoea.
47) Dugdha:
Dugdha, or milk, is part of the Pathya Ahara recommended in the treatment plan. It supports nutritional needs and helps in balancing the doshas, contributing to symptom relief.
48) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three bodily humors in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Imbalances in these doshas are central to the pathophysiology of dysmenorrhoea, and treatments aim to restore balance.
49) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas, and its imbalance along with Vata is implicated in dysmenorrhoea. Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance these doshas to alleviate pain and other symptoms.
50) Laghu:
Laghu means light, a quality attributed to Hingu in Ayurveda. This property makes it easy to digest and beneficial in treatments aimed at relieving pain and regulating doshas in dysmenorrhoea.
51) Taila (Thaila):
Taila, meaning oil, is used in various Ayurvedic treatments. It is part of the dietary advice to support health and balance doshas, playing a role in the overall management plan for dysmenorrhoea.
52) Mutra:
Mutra, referring to urine, is an important factor in assessing overall health. The patient's urination frequency is noted to ensure there are no underlying issues complicating the treatment of dysmenorrhoea.
53) Shaka (Saka):
Shaka, meaning vegetables, is part of the Pathya Ahara recommended. A balanced diet including Shaka supports health and improves the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatments for conditions like dysmenorrhoea.
54) Varga:
Varga refers to a group or category in Ayurvedic texts. Shaka-varga is the category of vegetables recommended as part of the patient's diet to enhance treatment outcomes.
55) India:
India is the country where the study was conducted, specifically in Bengaluru, Karnataka, highlighting the relevance of Ayurveda in contemporary health practices within the Indian context.
56) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush refers to traditional Indian healthcare systems, including Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homeopathy. The journal AYUSHDHARA focuses on research in these systems and their applications in treating conditions like dysmenorrhoea.
57) Borax:
Borax, known as Tankana in Ayurveda, is an ingredient in certain formulations used for treating dysmenorrhoea. It helps in balancing doshas and alleviating pain.
58) Vega:
Vega refers to natural urges, and avoiding Vega-dharana (suppression of urges) is important in Ayurvedic treatment plans. Proper management of Vega helps in ensuring effective symptom relief in dysmenorrhoea.
59) Nadi (Nadin):
Nadi, meaning pulse, is assessed to understand the patient's dosha balance. The patient’s pulse rate was recorded as part of the diagnostic process for tailoring the treatment of dysmenorrhoea.
60) Mala:
Mala refers to waste products like feces. The patient’s bowel movements are noted to ensure there is no underlying digestive issue affecting the treatment efficacy for dysmenorrhoea.
61) Vayu:
Vayu is an element governed by Vata dosha and pertains to movements within the body. Imbalances can lead to conditions like dysmenorrhoea, where treatments aim to restore Vayu's natural flow.