Efficacy of phala-ghrita on female infertility
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Efficacy of phala-ghrita on female infertility
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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*Biala Shalini
M.S.Scholar, Department of Post Graduate Studies in Prasooti Tantra & StreeRoga, Major S.D. Singh P.G. Ayurvedic Medical College, Farrukhabad (U.P.), India.
Ranjana Tiwari
Associate professor, Department of Post Graduate Studies in Prasooti Tantra & StreeRoga, Major S.D. Singh P.G. Ayurvedic Medical College, Farrukhabad (U.P.), India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Efficacy of phala-ghrita on female infertility
Year: 2015
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Female infertility, referred to as Vandhyatva in Ayurveda, affects an estimated 48 million women globally. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular unprotected intercourse. The primary causes of female infertility can be attributed to both female and male factors, with the female contributing to approximately 40-55% of cases. Successful pregnancy relies on several essential factors, including the reproductive period (Rutu), the health of the reproductive organs (Kshetra), proper nutrition (Ambu), and the availability of healthy sperm and ovum (Beeja). The study explores the efficacy of Phala-ghrita Snehapana (oral administration of an herbal ghee preparation) in treating female infertility.
Efficacy of Phala-ghrita in Treating Infertility
In this clinical study, 45 women of reproductive age who had not conceived after a year of regular intercourse were administered Phala-ghrita at a dosage of 20 ml twice daily for three months. While 42 patients completed the treatment, data revealed that 21.43% successfully conceived following the course. Although the herbal treatment showed no significant improvement regarding the specific causes of infertility (such as PCOD, endometriosis, and fibroids), it did provide encouraging results for menstrual cycle regulation, with a notable percentage (23.80%) reporting relief from menstrual irregularities. These findings indicate that while the overall conception rate was modest, the use of Phala-ghrita showed potential benefits.
Causes and Types of Infertility Observed
Among the patients examined, various causes for infertility were identified: 19.05% had Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD), 16.67% were diagnosed with endometriosis, and 14.28% had uterine fibroids, with others presenting unexplained infertility. Notably, most patients reported having primary infertility (69.05%), and a majority (69.05%) experienced regular menstrual cycles. The study highlighted that the administration of Phala-ghrita did lead to some improvement in menstrual irregularities but had a limited effect on the underlying causes contributing to infertility.
Conclusion
The findings of the study suggest that oral administration of Phala-ghrita may assist in addressing female infertility, with a 21.43% conception rate among participants. While promising, the overall pregnancy rate remains low, indicating the need for further research. Future studies could explore different modalities of administration and refine treatment protocols to enhance effectiveness. No significant adverse effects were observed during or after the treatment, suggesting that Phala-ghrita could be a safe complementary therapy in managing female infertility.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the aim of the study on Phala-ghrita?
The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of oral administration of Phala-ghrita in treating female infertility in patients who were unable to conceive after one year of regular unprotected coitus.
What were the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study?
Inclusion criteria included female patients aged 18 to 42 with primary or secondary infertility. Exclusion criteria involved patients with active infections, chronic diseases, sexually transmitted diseases, or other serious conditions.
What were the results of Phala-ghrita treatment for infertility?
The study found that 21.43% of patients conceived after treatment with Phala-ghrita. While it did not significantly affect the causes of infertility, there was notable improvement in menstrual cycle disturbances.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Efficacy of phala-ghrita on female infertility�. 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) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita (ghee) is a key substance used in Ayurvedic medicine, known for its tridoshaghna properties, which means it balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. In the study, Phalaghrita, a specific preparation of ghrita, was administered to patients to evaluate its effect on female infertility.
2) Phala:
Phala refers to 'fruits' or 'results' and in this context, it is part of Phalaghrita, a medicated ghee preparation used in Ayurveda. The efficacy of Phalaghrita was tested on female infertility in the study, focusing on its ability to aid conception.
3) Drug:
The term 'drug' in the study refers to Phalaghrita, a traditional Ayurvedic formulation. The efficacy of this drug was assessed for its potential to treat female infertility through oral administration over a period of three months.
4) Disease:
Infertility is described as a cardinal feature of many diseases. The study aimed to evaluate if Phalaghrita could address underlying issues causing this disease and improve the chances of conception in affected women.
5) Vandhyatva:
Vandhyatva is the Ayurvedic term for female infertility. The study involved evaluating the effects of Phalaghrita in treating Vandhyatva, with a focus on improving conception rates in affected women through traditional herbal therapy.
6) Sneha:
Sneha refers to oleation therapy in Ayurveda. In this study, Snehapana involves the oral administration of Phalaghrita (medicated ghee) to treat female infertility, aiming to balance Doshas and support reproductive health.
7) Pana:
[see source text or glossary: Pana]
8) India:
The study was conducted in Farrukhabad, Uttar Pradesh, India. Raw materials for Phalaghrita were procured from local markets, and the preparation was carried out under professional supervision in a local Ayurvedic pharmacy.
9) Yoni (Yonin):
Yoni refers to the female reproductive system in Ayurveda. Phalaghrita is noted for its yoni pradoshanashaka properties, meaning it helps cure vaginal dysfunctions, which is crucial in treating female infertility.
10) Milk:
Milk, specifically cow milk, is one of the ingredients used in the preparation of Phalaghrita. It is known for its Vata-pitta shamaka, jivaniya, and rasayana properties, which aid nourishment and vitality.
11) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine. The study evaluates an Ayurvedic formulation, Phalaghrita, for its efficacy in treating female infertility, drawing on traditional knowledge and practices.
12) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
[see source text or glossary: Tantra]
13) Katu:
Katu refers to astringent, one of the tastes (rasas) in Ayurveda. Phalaghrita contains ingredients with Katu rasa, which contribute to its medicinal properties, including digestion and detoxification benefits.
14) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to taste, an essential concept in Ayurveda. Phalaghrita includes Katu, Madhura, and Tikta rasas, each contributing to the formulation’s healing properties, which are aimed at treating female infertility.
15) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with movement and activity. Vandhyatva (infertility) is considered a Vata-dominated condition. Ghrita, being tridoshaghna, helps balance Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
16) Curcuma longa:
Curcuma longa, known as turmeric, is one of the ingredients in Phalaghrita. Turmeric is celebrated in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, contributing to the effectiveness of the formulation.
17) Cow milk (Cow's milk):
Cow milk is an essential ingredient in Phalaghrita preparation. It is valued in Ayurveda for its Vata-pitta shamaka, jivaniya (nourishing), and rasayana (rejuvenating) properties.
18) Cow dung:
[see source text or glossary: Cow dung]
19) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus, known as Shatavari in Ayurveda, is an ingredient in Phalaghrita. It is known for its reproductive health benefits, making it suitable for treating female infertility.
20) Prajasthapana (Praja-sthapana):
Prajasthapana refers to the property of establishing or sustaining pregnancy. Phalaghrita is considered Prajasthapana, aiding conception and supporting a healthy pregnancy, according to Ayurveda.
21) Daruharidra (Daru-haridra):
Daruharidra, or Berberis aristata, is an ingredient in Phalaghrita. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, contributing to the formulation’s efficacy in treating infertility.
22) Phenashanti (Phenasanti):
[see source text or glossary: Phenashanti]
23) Katurohini (Katu-rohini):
Katurohini, or Picrorhiza kurroa, is one of the herbal ingredients used in Phalaghrita. It is known for its bitter taste and medicinal properties, which aid in treating various health conditions in Ayurveda.
24) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna is the Ayurvedic science of pharmacology. The study mentions Dravyaguna specialists overseeing the preparation of Phalaghrita to ensure its quality and effectiveness in treating female infertility.
25) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
Vata-pitta shamaka refers to substances that balance the Vata and Pitta doshas. Both Phalaghrita and cow milk, an ingredient in it, have Vata-pitta shamaka properties, contributing to their therapeutic effects.
26) Shothahara (Sothahara, Shotha-hara):
Shothahara means anti-inflammatory. Phalaghrita, with its Dipana, Pachana, and Shothahara actions, helps reduce inflammation and improve overall reproductive health, which is crucial in treating infertility.
27) Ghritapaka (Ghrtapaka, Ghrita-paka):
[see source text or glossary: Ghritapaka]
28) Vajigandha (Vajin-gandha, Vajigamdha):
Vajigandha, or Withania somnifera, is an ingredient in Phalaghrita known for its rejuvenating and strengthening properties, which support reproductive health and contribute to the treatment of infertility.
29) Phalasarpis (Phalasarpi):
[see source text or glossary: Phalasarpi]
30) Discussion:
The section titled 'Discussion' analyzes the study’s findings, suggesting that although Phalaghrita did not significantly impact specific infertility causes, it improved menstrual cycle regularity and had a modest success in aiding conception.
31) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari, or Asparagus racemosus, is included in Phalaghrita for its renowned benefits on reproductive health, particularly in women. It supports fertility and overall reproductive function in Ayurvedic medicine.
32) Krimighna (Krmighna, Krimi-ghna):
Krimighna refers to anti-parasitic properties. Phalaghrita includes herbs with Krimighna actions, which may aid in reducing infections and improving reproductive health, contributing to its effectiveness in treating infertility.
33) Vibhitaki:
[see source text or glossary: Vibhitaki]
34) Manjishtha (Manjistha, Mamjishtha):
Manjistha, or Rubia cordifolia, is an ingredient in Phalaghrita known for its blood-purifying properties. It aids in detoxification, which is essential for overall health and in treating female infertility.
35) Anulomana:
Anulomana refers to promoting proper bowel movements and digestion. Phalaghrita has Anulomana properties, which help improve digestive health, contributing to overall well-being and reproductive health.
36) Substance:
[see source text or glossary: Substance]
37) Katurasa (Katu-rasa):
[see source text or glossary: Katu-rasa]
38) Haritaki:
[see source text or glossary: Haritaki]
39) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala, consisting of Haritaki, Vibhitaki, and Amlaki, is included in Phalaghrita. It is a renowned Ayurvedic formulation used for its detoxifying and balancing properties, supporting overall health and fertility.
40) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenation therapies in Ayurveda. Phalaghrita, containing Rasayana herbs, helps rejuvenate the body, supporting reproductive health and possibly aiding in the treatment of infertility.
41) Striroga (Stri-roga):
Striroga refers to gynecology in Ayurveda. The study was conducted in the Department of Prasooti Tantra & Striroga, focusing on the efficacy of Phalaghrita in treating female infertility, a significant concern in this field.
42) Jivaniya:
Jivaniya refers to nourishing properties. Cow milk in Phalaghrita has Jivaniya qualities, essential for providing the body with nourishment, which is critical for supporting reproductive health.
43) Sharkara (Sarkara):
Sharkara (sugar) is one of the ingredients in Phalaghrita. It likely serves to enhance the taste and therapeutic effect of the formulation, making it more palatable and effective.
44) Pregnant:
The study found that nearly 22% of the patients became pregnant after three months of Phalaghrita administration, demonstrating its potential efficacy in improving female fertility according to the study's findings.
45) Madhura:
Madhura refers to sweetness, one of the six tastes in Ayurveda. Phalaghrita contains Madhura rasa, which is nourishing and balancing, particularly for Pitta and Vata doshas, aiding in fertility treatment.
46) Kshetra (Ksetra):
Kshetra refers to the reproductive organs in Ayurveda, considered one of the four essential factors for pregnancy. Phalaghrita aims to optimize the health of the Kshetra, enhancing fertility.
47) Lekhana:
Lekhana refers to scraping or reducing properties. Ingredients in Phalaghrita may have Lekhana effects, aiding in the removal of blockages and toxins, improving reproductive health.
48) Payasya:
[see source text or glossary: Payasya]
49) Ranjana (Ramjana):
Ranjana Tiwari is one of the authors of the study. She is associated with the Department of Post Graduate Studies in Prasooti Tantra & StreeRoga and contributed to the research on Phalaghrita’s efficacy on female infertility.
50) Samaka (Shamaka):
Shamaka refers to pacifying properties. Cow milk and other ingredients in Phalaghrita are Vata-pitta shamaka, helping to balance these doshas and support reproductive health.
51) Dipyaka:
[see source text or glossary: Dipyaka]
52) Madhuka:
Madhuka, or Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), is an ingredient in Phalaghrita. It has therapeutic properties that support health and wellness, contributing to the formulation’s efficacy in treating infertility.
53) Haridra:
Haridra, or Curcuma longa (turmeric), is a significant ingredient in Phalaghrita known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, essential in managing health conditions including infertility.
54) Tagara:
[see source text or glossary: Tagara]
55) Kshira (Ksira):
Kshira (milk) is an essential ingredient in Phalaghrita preparation. It offers nourishing and balancing properties, aiding the formulation’s effectiveness in promoting reproductive health and treating infertility.
56) Dipana:
Dipana refers to digestive stimulant properties. Phalaghrita, with its Dipana actions, enhances digestive fire, which is crucial in Ayurveda for overall health and effective treatment of infertility.
57) Satmya:
[see source text or glossary: Satmya]
58) Kakoli:
[see source text or glossary: Kakoli]
59) Family:
Family dynamics affected the study, as three participants left due to personal family reasons, highlighting the importance of considering family circumstances in longitudinal studies.
60) Desire:
[see source text or glossary: Desire]
61) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with metabolism and transformation. Phalaghrita, with its tridoshaghna properties, helps balance Pitta along with Vata and Kapha, aiding in treating infertility.
62) Laghu:
[see source text or glossary: Laghu]
63) Tikta:
Tikta refers to the bitter taste in Ayurveda. Phalaghrita contains Tikta rasa among others, which helps in detoxifying the body and promoting health, aiding in the treatment of infertility.
64) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna refers to hot potency. Ingredients in Phalaghrita have both Ushna and Sheeta (cool) properties, balancing the body's temperature regulation and supporting reproductive health.
65) Basti:
Basti refers to enemas in Ayurveda, a treatment method mentioned but not used in this study. Notably, Phalaghrita can be administered both orally and as Basti, though in this study it was given orally.
66) Hingu (Himgu):
[see source text or glossary: Hingu]
67) Balya:
Balya refers to strength-giving properties in Ayurveda. Phalaghrita’s ingredients, such as Vajigandha and Shatavari, possess Balya attributes, helping to strengthen the body and improve fertility.
68) Ayus (Ayush):
[see source text or glossary: Ayush]
69) Sugar:
Sugar (Sharkara) is an ingredient in Phalaghrita. It might be used for its sweet taste and potential benefits, but specific details on Sharkara’s role in the formulation are not extensively detailed in the study.
70) Vaca:
[see source text or glossary: Vacha]
71) Medas (Meda, Medash):
[see source text or glossary: Meda]
72) Atman (Atma):
[see source text or glossary: Atma]
73) Vayu:
[see source text or glossary: Vayu]
74) Ambu:
[see source text or glossary: Ambu]
75) Food:
Patients were advised to eat light food while undergoing treatment with Phalaghrita. Dietary considerations are essential in Ayurveda to complement the therapeutic effects of the treatment.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 78]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Efficacy of phala-ghrita on female infertility�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Snehapana, Vandhyatva, Phalaghrita, Inclusion criteria, Exclusion criteria, Diagnostic criteria, Treatment Protocol, Follow up study, Female infertility, Primary infertility, Secondary infertility, Reproductive Age Group, Menstrual irregularities, Effects of therapy, PCOD, Aims and objective.