Efficacy of Ayurvedic Therapies with Panchakarma in the Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD)

Abstract

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the fastest-growing endocrine diseases that occur in women in their reproductive years. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome involves hormonal imbalances in the ovulation process leading to the retention of immature follicles in the ovaries. The prevalence rate of PCOS in the world is believed to be about 6% to 10%, while in the Indian women population, the prevalence is between 3.7% and 22.5%.

The characteristics of PCOS are hyperandrogenism, an-ovulation, and polycystic ovaries. Clinically, this disease manifests in form of irregular or absence of menstrual cycles, hirsutism, acne, and infertility. In the current world scenario, the prevalence rate of PCOS has increased drastically due to sedentary lifestyle and poor nutritional intake.

Though there is no mention of PCOS in Ayurveda literature, the symptoms associated with PCOS are similar to many diseases like Bandhya Yonivyapada, Artavavaha Srotas Viddha Lakshana, Nastartava, and Ksheenaartava according to Acharya Sushruta. Likewise, the diseases Pushpaghni Jatharini and Vikrita Jatharini as mentioned by Acharya Kashyapa are similar to PCOS. Of all these diseases, Bandhya Yonivyapada is the one which is closest to PCOS.

In the current study, the main attention is paid to Nastartava, which is believed to be one of the key symptoms of Bandhya. According to Ayurvedic sources, the concept of Artava refers to menstrual blood, ovum and ovarian hormones. Therefore, amenorrhea, anovulation and hormonal disturbances are regarded as the symptoms of Nastartava. The suggested treatment technique includes Nidanaparivarjan (removal of causative factors), herbal medications and Panchakarma treatments.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Artava, Nastartava, PCOS, Herbal drugs, Panchakarma, endometriosis.