Rajaswala Paricharya: Essential Ayurveda for Women's Health
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Rajaswala Paricharya- An Essential Approach Towards Female Through the Lens of Ayurveda Science
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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Patel Jalpa
PhD Scholar, Department of Prasutitantra & Streeroga, ITRA, Jamnagar.
Patel Akshay
Master of Public Health, Ayush Medical Officer, Vadodara
Donga Shilpa
Professor, Department of Prasutitantra & Streeroga, ITRA, Jamnagar.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Rajaswala Paricharya- An Essential Approach Towards Female Through the Lens of Ayurveda Science
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10iSuppl1.1169
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The concept of menstruation in Ayurveda is celebrated as a physiological and self-purifying process influenced by the actions of the Doshas. Within Ayurveda, specific guidelines referred to as Rajaswala Paricharya are prescribed for menstruating women, promoting a series of lifestyle practices, dietary recommendations, and restrictions to enhance health and mitigate potential complications for both the woman and any future offspring. Despite the profound significance of these guidelines, there has been a noticeable decline in their adherence and promotion in contemporary society, compounded by misinformation from media and sanitary product manufacturers. The paper emphasizes the necessity for Ayurveda practitioners to advocate for Rajaswala Paricharya as a fundamental aspect of improving women's reproductive health.
The Importance of Rajaswala Paricharya
Rajaswala Paricharya encompasses guidelines aimed at promoting the well-being of menstruating women and improving their overall menstrual health. The Ayurveda texts delineate specific do’s and don’ts during menstruation, including dietary preferences such as consuming Havishya Anna and maintaining abstinence. For example, Charaka suggests that a woman should eat food from unbroken vessels and refrain from hygiene practices like bathing. Sushruta highlights the importance of rest on a bed made of Dharbha grass and cautions against exertion and certain activities like loud talking or emotional distress. The rationale behind these prescriptions is to maintain the delicate balance of the Doshas and prevent menstrual disorders, fostering a healthier environment during the menstrual phase.
The Impact of Modern Lifestyle on Menstrual Health
The contemporary lifestyle, characterized by increased stress, altered dietary habits, and career-oriented priorities, has led to a decline in adherence to Rajaswala Paricharya, resulting in an uptick in menstrual dysfunctions and related health issues. The authors point out that modern medical approaches often focus solely on hygiene and sanitation without incorporating comprehensive preventative practices suggested in Ayurveda. Consequently, women today experience an array of menstrual symptoms, such as dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, and other reproductive health concerns. The research emphasizes that by restoring traditional practices and promoting awareness of Rajaswala Paricharya, women can mitigate many of the adverse physical and psychological changes associated with menstruation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rajaswala Paricharya serves as an essential preventive measure to enhance women’s reproductive health and counteract various menstrual disorders. By following the principles of Rajaswala Paricharya, women can navigate the physiological and psychological challenges posed by menstruation in a healthier manner. This approach not only aims to prevent vitiation of the Doshas and formation of Ama but also cultivates a nurturing environment for reproductive health. Therefore, it is crucial to integrate these ancient Ayurvedic practices into modern health education initiatives to improve the well-being of women and foster a greater understanding of menstrual health.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Rajaswala Paricharya in Ayurveda?
Rajaswala Paricharya refers to a set of lifestyle guidelines prescribed for menstruating women. It encompasses dietary, psychological, and lifestyle practices during menstruation to promote health and prevent complications associated with menstruation.
Why is Rajaswala Paricharya important for women's health?
Rajaswala Paricharya helps maintain balance in the body's doshas during menstruation, preventing menstrual disorders and related health issues. It supports reproductive health and enhances the overall well-being of women during their menstrual cycle.
How can modern women implement Rajaswala Paricharya?
Modern women can adopt Rajaswala Paricharya by following specific dietary guidelines, engaging in positive thinking, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle during their menstrual period. Awareness and education about these practices are essential for enhancing reproductive health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Rajaswala Paricharya: Essential Ayurveda for Women's Health”. 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) Food:
Regarding food, it's mentioned that diet plays a crucial role in the menstrual health of women. Specific foods such as 'Shali', 'Ghee', and 'Godugdha' are recommended during menstruation according to Ayurvedic practices described in the study.
2) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, provides guidelines for maintaining health and managing diseases. It emphasizes balance among the three Doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—and offers treatments including dietary and lifestyle recommendations.
3) Pain:
In Ayurvedic texts, a normal menstruation is one devoid of pain or burning sensation. Modern symptoms like lower abdominal pain and back pain during menstruation are not considered normal.
4) Disease:
Ayurveda provides detailed guidelines for preventing and managing diseases through lifestyle practices, dietary adjustments, and herbal treatments, aiming to maintain balance among the Doshas.
5) Patel:
Authors Patel Jalpa and Patel Akshay contributed to the article on 'Rajaswala Paricharya', focusing on improving menstrual health through Ayurvedic practices.
6) Darbha:
Darbha grass is recommended for menstruating women to sleep on due to its believed properties of blocking radiation, enhancing meditation, and possessing antibacterial properties.
7) Blood:
According to Ayurveda, normal menstrual blood should resemble the red juice of lac or rabbit’s blood and should be free from pain or burning sensation.
8) Varanasi (Varanashi):
The city in India where several of the referenced Ayurveda texts such as Sushruta Samhita were published. The city is well-known for its traditional Ayurvedic practices and scholarship.
9) Sanskrit:
The language in which ancient Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya are written, providing detailed guidelines for health practices including 'Rajaswala Paricharya'.
10) Jalpa:
One of the authors of the article on 'Rajaswala Paricharya', Patel Jalpa, provided insights into Ayurvedic practices for better menstrual health.
11) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Related to processes of purification and detoxification, such as the monthly menstrual cycle, considered a natural Shodhana procedure in Ayurveda, which helps maintain balance in the body.
12) Medicine:
The article discusses Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional system focusing on lifestyle practices, dietary measures, and herbal treatments to maintain health and treat diseases.
13) Sharira (Sarira):
Refers to the human body and its states as explained in Ayurveda, which includes guidelines for different life stages like menstruation and pregnancy.
14) Dosha (Dosa):
In Ayurveda, the three Doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—govern physiological and psychological processes. The balance among these Doshas is crucial for health, including normal menstruation.
15) Agni:
Agni refers to the digestive fire in Ayurveda. Proper Agni ensures good digestion and overall health, and it is important to nurture Agni, especially during menstruation.
16) Science (Scientific):
The study aims to scientifically validate Ayurvedic practices such as 'Rajaswala Paricharya' and its effects on menstrual health.
17) Samhita:
A reference to classic Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, which provide detailed descriptions of health practices including 'Rajaswala Paricharya'.
18) Mineral:
[see source text or glossary: Mineral]
19) Sthana:
Sthana refers to sections or parts of classical Ayurvedic texts, such as Sutrasthana and Sharirasthana, which detail various health practices including those for menstruation.
20) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]
21) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush refers to the systems of traditional Indian medicine including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The journal AYUSHDHARA focuses on research in AYUSH systems.
22) Diet:
Following a specific diet is crucial during 'Rajaswala Paricharya'. Recommended foods include 'Havishyam' like Shali, Ghrita, Takra, to help balance the body's Doshas.
23) Burning sensation:
Ayurvedic texts describe normal menstruation as being free from burning sensation, among other symptoms. Deviations indicate an imbalance in the body.
24) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
One of the authoritative texts in Ayurveda, detailing medical practices and health guidelines, including 'Rajaswala Paricharya' during menstruation.
25) Sharirasthana (Sarirasthana, Sharira-sthana):
A section in texts like Sushruta Samhita that focuses on the human body and health guidelines, including those for menstruating women.
26) Dysmenorrhea (Dysmenorrhoea):
[see source text or glossary: Dysmenorrhoea]
27) Vitiation (Vitiated):
In Ayurveda, vitiation refers to the imbalance of Doshas. Following practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya' helps prevent vitiation of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
28) Kaviraja (Kavi-raja):
[see source text or glossary: Kaviraja]
29) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Refers to Ashtanga Sangraha and Ashtanga Hridaya, foundational texts in Ayurveda that elaborate on various health practices, including 'Rajaswala Paricharya'.
30) Kapha:
One of the three Doshas in Ayurveda. Imbalance of Kapha can lead to various health issues. 'Rajaswala Paricharya' aims to maintain Kapha balance during menstruation.
31) Shali (Sali):
A variety of rice recommended in 'Rajaswala Paricharya' for its nutritive properties and ability to maintain balance among the Doshas.
32) India:
The birthplace of Ayurveda, where practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya' have been traditionally followed to improve women's health during menstruation.
33) Salt (Salty):
Ayurveda advises avoiding salty foods during menstruation to prevent aggravation of Doshas, especially Pitta, and maintain menstrual health.
34) Vata:
One of the three Doshas in Ayurveda. Practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya' help in avoiding the vitiation of Vata, which can lead to menstrual disorders.
35) Ghi (Ghee):
Clarified butter recommended during menstruation for its beneficial effects on health, helping to balance Doshas and support digestive fire (Agni).
36) Milk:
Dairy products including milk are recommended in Ayurvedic practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya' for their nutritive and balancing properties.
37) Sour:
Ayurveda advises against consuming sour foods during menstruation to avoid aggravation of Pitta Dosha, which can lead to menstrual problems.
38) Educational institution:
Ayurveda can be promoted within educational institutions to improve the menstrual health of young women through awareness of practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya'.
39) Menstrual blood:
Ayurvedic texts describe the characteristics of normal menstrual blood, which should be free from burning sensation and pain, with a specific coloration.
40) Young women (Young woman):
The study highlights that young women can benefit from following Ayurvedic practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya' to maintain reproductive health and avoid menstrual issues.
41) Ashtangasamgraha (Astangasamgraha, Astangasangraha, Ashtanga-samgraha, Ashtanga-sangraha, Ashtangasangraha):
A classical Ayurvedic text that provides comprehensive guidelines on Ayurveda, including menstrual practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya'.
42) Ashtangahridaya (Astangahrdaya, Ashtanga-hridaya):
Another foundational Ayurvedic text alongside Ashtanga Sangraha that details various health practices, including those related to menstruation and women's health.
43) Ayurvedarasayana:
[see source text or glossary: Ayurvedarasayana]
44) Shashtikashali (Sastikasali, Shashtika-shali):
A specific type of rice recommended during menstruation in Ayurvedic practices for its beneficial properties in maintaining Dosha balance and promoting health.
45) Sutrasthana (Sutra-sthana):
A section in Ayurvedic texts that includes initial chapters explaining various fundamental and practical aspects of Ayurveda, including reproductive health.
46) Siddhisthana (Siddhi-sthana):
A section in Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita that deals with therapeutic instructions, including those for women's health during menstruation.
47) Chemotherapy:
[see source text or glossary: Chemotherapy]
48) Transmission:
[see source text or glossary: Transmission]
49) Purification:
Refers to the detoxification and cleansing practices recommended in Ayurveda, such as the monthly menstrual cycle considered a natural purification process.
50) Agnimandya (Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Refers to weakened digestive fire in Ayurveda. Practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya' involving light and balanced diet aim to restore Agni during menstruation.
51) Pratishthana (Pratisthana, Pratishthan):
[see source text or glossary: Pratishthan]
52) Butter milk (Buttermilk):
A recommended dairy product in 'Rajaswala Paricharya' for its nutritive and balancing properties, supporting digestive fire (Agni) during menstruation.
53) Discussion:
The article includes a discussion highlighting the benefits of Ayurvedic practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya' for menstrual health and overall well-being.
54) Meditation:
Practices like meditation may be supported by Ayurvedic guidelines, as 'Darbha' grass is traditionally believed to enhance meditative focus and energy retention.
55) Asrigdara (Asrgdara, Asrij-dara):
[see source text or glossary: Asrigdara]
56) Shashtika (Sastika):
[see source text or glossary: Shashtika]
57) Parampara:
[see source text or glossary: Parampara]
58) Rashtriya (Rastriya):
Programs like Rashtriya Kishore Swasthya Karyakaram can promote 'Rajaswala Paricharya' for improving menstrual health among adolescent girls.
59) Taranatha (Tara-natha):
[see source text or glossary: Taranatha]
60) Education:
Educational initiatives are essential for spreading awareness of Ayurvedic practices like 'Rajaswala Paricharya', especially among young women.
61) Thanjavur:
[see source text or glossary: Thanjavur]
62) Garbhini:
Refers to the pregnancy period in Ayurveda, where guidelines similar to 'Rajaswala Paricharya' are provided to ensure the health of the mother and child.
63) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Ayurveda advises against practices like Abhyanga (oil massage) during menstruation to avoid aggravating the Doshas and negatively impacting menstrual health.
64) Manorama (Manas-rama, Mano-rama):
[see source text or glossary: Manorama]
65) Godugdha:
Refers to cow's milk, recommended in Ayurvedic practice such as 'Rajaswala Paricharya' for its health benefits during menstruation.
66) Vomiting:
[see source text or glossary: Vomiting]
67) Samgraha (Sangraha):
Part of the titles of ancient Ayurvedic texts, such as Ashtanga Sangraha, detailing guidelines for health practices including 'Rajaswala Paricharya'.
68) Pregnant:
[see source text or glossary: Pregnant]
69) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Modern medical systems emphasize hygiene, but Ayurveda also stresses lifestyle practices during menstruation for overall health.
70) Indriya (Imdriya):
[see source text or glossary: Indriya]
71) Sundara (Shundara, Sumdara):
[see source text or glossary: Sundara]
72) Shastra (Sastra):
[see source text or glossary: Shastra]
73) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
Refers to texts like Ashtanga Hridaya, important Ayurvedic works that provide comprehensive guidelines on health practices including menstrual health.
74) Prameha:
The imbalance in the monthly purification process during menstruation can lead to diseases like Prameha (diabetes) in the future, according to Ayurveda.
75) Barbara (Varvara):
[see source text or glossary: Barbara]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 119]