Ayurvedic management of tubal infertility: a case series.
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurvedic intervention in the management of infertility w.s.r. tubal infertility- a case series
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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*Rajput Shivshankar
Ph.D Scholar, Department of Stree roga & Prasutitantra, I.P.G.T. & R.A., G.A.U., Jamnagar, Gujarat
Mata Shweta
Ph.D Scholar, Department of Shalakyatantra, I.P.G.T. & R.A.,G.A.U., Jamnagar, Gujarat
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic intervention in the management of infertility w.s.r. tubal infertility- a case series
Year: 2015
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Tubal infertility ranks as the second leading cause of female infertility, significantly impacting women's ability to conceive. Traditional medical options such as reconstructive surgery and In Vitro Fertilization are often time-consuming, invasive, and economically burdensome, particularly for many in India. This study highlights an Ayurvedic approach utilizing Ayurvedic principles and treatments aimed not only at removing tubal blockages but also at enhancing conception rates. The treatments discussed include the use of Apamargakshara Taila for Uttarabasti, which aims to rectify Vata and Kapha imbalances thought to contribute to tubal blockages, along with Phalakalyana Ghrita to support conception.
Ayurvedic Management of Tubal Infertility
The case series involved three patients diagnosed with tubal blockage confirmed through hysterosalpingography (HSG). Each patient underwent two sessions of Uttarabasti, which involved administering Apamargakshara Taila to promote Vata- and Kapha-shamaka effects that enhance the patency of the fallopian tubes. Following this treatment, a significant improvement was noted; all patients exhibited normal findings on HSG with open tubes. These patients then took Phalakalyana Ghrita orally for one month, leading to successful pregnancies shortly after the treatment cycle. The careful choice of treatment modality emphasized that traditional Ayurvedic methods could potentially provide an effective alternative for managing tubal infertility.
The Role of Ingredients in Ayurvedic Treatment
The study highlights the significance of the herbal formulations used in the treatment, particularly Apamargakshara Taila and Phalakalyana Ghrita. Apamargakshara Taila, which combines various Ayurvedic herbs, demonstrates Lekhana properties (to scrape or reduce) and is aimed specifically at alleviating Kapha and Vata disturbances associated with blockage. The subsequent use of Phalakalyana Ghrita, a combination of milk and herbs known for their rejuvenation properties, was administered to enhance the chances of conception post-treatment. This holistic approach addresses not just the physical blockage but also the overall health and vitality of the reproductive system in women, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of Ayurvedic practice.
Conclusion
The findings from the case series indicate that Ayurvedic interventions like Uttarabasti with Apamargakshara Taila and the oral administration of Phalakalyana Ghrita can offer effective management strategies for tubal infertility. The results suggest that these therapies could serve as viable alternatives to conventional treatments, especially for women facing financial or logistical barriers to surgery or IVF. Overall, this Ayurvedic approach not only facilitates the opening of blocked tubes but also significantly improves the prospects for conception, showcasing the potential for integrating traditional medicine into contemporary gynecological care.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Tubal Infertility and its treatment in Ayurveda?
Tubal infertility refers to the inability to conceive due to blocked fallopian tubes. Ayurvedic treatment focuses on removing the blockage using therapies like Uttarabasti with Apamargakshara Taila and improving conception rate using Phalakalyana Ghrita.
What are the key ingredients used in the Ayurvedic treatments?
Key ingredients include Apamargakshara Taila, known for its Vata-Kapha regulating properties, and Phalakalyana Ghrita, prescribed to enhance conception. These treatments were evaluated through HSG to assess tubal patency.
What were the outcomes of the Ayurvedic intervention study?
In the case series, all patients demonstrated tubal patency after treatment and achieved pregnancies. Regular follow-ups showed no clinical abnormalities, indicating effective management of tubal infertility with Ayurvedic methods.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic management of tubal infertility: a case series.�. 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) Kalka:
Kalka refers to a paste made from the powdered form of a medicinal plant. In Ayurvedic treatments, Kalka is used to create formulations for medicinal purposes, including treating infertility as depicted in the text.
2) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas (body energies) in Ayurveda responsible for bodily movements and functions. Tubal blockage in female infertility is linked with an imbalance of Vata, requiring treatments that rectify this dosha.
3) Kapha:
Kapha is another dosha representing bodily structure and fluid balance. It is associated with blockages and mucus, known as Avarodhaka property, affecting tubal blockage in infertility treatments.
4) Taila:
Taila means oil in Ayurveda, often used for its therapeutic properties. Specifically, Tila Taila (sesame oil) has anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties vital for treatments like Uttarabasti.
5) Drug:
Drug refers to any substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. In this context, Ayurvedic formulations such as Apamargakshara Taila are drugs used to treat infertility.
6) Kshara (Ksara):
Kshara means alkali in Ayurveda, used for its purifying and cleansing properties in treatments. Apamarga Kshara is noted for its role in treating tubal blockages with its Tikshna and Shamaka properties.
7) Apamarga:
Apamarga (Achyranthes aspera) is a plant whose extract, Apamargakshara, is used in Ayurvedic treatments like Uttarabasti for its Vata-Kapha Shamaka properties necessary for treating tubal blockages.
8) Kshetra (Ksetra):
Kshetra refers to the field or area, particularly the female reproductive tract. For conception, it must be healthy and functional, emphasizing the importance of structural integrity in fertility.
9) Artava:
Artava denotes the menstrual blood or reproductive elements in females. Fallopian tubes are considered part of Artava Bija Vaha Srotasa, crucial for carrying the ovum for conception.
10) Pushpa (Puspa):
Pushpa generally means flower or blossom. Several Ayurvedic formulations may use different flowers (Pushpa) for their medicinal properties.
11) Madhyama:
Madhyama refers to medium or balanced proportions. In the text, it describes body proportions of patients which influence their physical examination and treatment plans.
12) Lekhana:
Lekhana is a scraping or cleansing property useful in removing blockages. In the context of treating tubal blockage, medicinal oils with Lekhana properties help clear the fallopian tubes.
13) Disease:
Disease refers to any condition that disrupts normal bodily functions. The text notes tubal infertility as a disease addressed through Ayurvedic treatments like Uttarabasti.
14) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita means clarified butter or ghee, often used in medicinal preparations. Phalakalyana Ghrita is administered to enhance conception rates post-treatment for tubal blockages.
15) Rajput:
Rajput refers to Rajput Shivshankar, one of the authors of the research article.
16) India:
India is the country where the study was conducted, particularly highlighting that Ayurvedic treatments for infertility can be more accessible and affordable for its population.
17) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is an important herb in Ayurveda. It is included in the Phalakalyana Ghrita formulation used to enhance conception.
18) Ksharataila (Ksarataila, Kshara-taila):
Kshara-taila combines Kshara and Taila, forming a medicinal oil with alkali properties.
19) Vandhyatva:
Vandhyatva refers to infertility or the inability to conceive. The case studies focus on treating Vandhyatva resulting from tubal blockages through Ayurvedic interventions.
20) Svarasa (Sva-rasa):
Svarasa refers to fresh juice extracted from plants, often used in Ayurvedic formulations like Phalakalyana Ghrita.
21) Gujarat:
Gujarat is the state in India where the study was conducted, specifically in Jamnagar. The research highlights Ayurvedic treatments carried out by scholars at G.A.U., Jamnagar.
22) Samaka (Shamaka):
Shamaka pertains to properties that pacify or alleviate imbalances. In this context, Vata-Kapha Shamaka properties of oils are instrumental in treating tubal infertility by balancing the doshas.
23) Vyavayi:
Vyavayi refers to a quality where the substance spreads quickly throughout the body without undergoing transformations. Tila Taila's Vyavayi quality aids in the treatment of tubal blockages.
24) Animal:
Animal products, like Godugdha (cow's milk) and Goghrita (cow's ghee), are used in Ayurvedic formulations. These are critical ingredients in the Phalakalyana Ghrita for treating infertility.
25) Phala:
Phala indicates fruit. Triphala, for instance, consists of three fruits used in various formulations due to their healing properties.
26) Kanda (Kamda):
Kanda refers to the root or tuber of a plant. Various medicinal roots are used in Ayurvedic treatments, as seen in the case series.
27) Roga:
Roga means disease or ailment. Ayurvedic treatments detailed in the text aim to treat rogas like tubal infertility.
28) Tila:
Tila, or sesame (Sesamum indicum), is used to produce Tila Taila, an essential component in Ayurvedic treatments for its anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties.
29) Mata:
Mata Shweta is one of the co-authors of the study.
30) Bija:
Bija means seed or ovum in the reproductive context. It is crucial for conception, which the fallopian tubes must carry properly, preventing issues like tubal blockages.
31) Guna:
Guna refers to the qualities or attributes of a drug or substance in Ayurveda. Characteristics like Sukshma, Laghu, and Tikshna influence the efficacy of treatments.
32) Vaha:
Vaha means carrying or transporting. The term Artava Bija Vaha Srotasa is used to describe fallopian tubes carrying the ovum for fertilization.
33) Food:
Food is implied in the dietary recommendations given to patients undergoing Ayurvedic treatments, emphasizing easily digestible items and avoiding heavy, spicy, or fried foods.
34) Emblica officinalis:
Emblica officinalis, also known as Amla or Indian gooseberry, is one of the components of Triphala, used in various Ayurvedic treatments for its medicinal properties.
35) Glycyrrhiza glabra:
Glycyrrhiza glabra, or Yastimadhu (Licorice), is used in Ayurvedic formulations. It appears in the Phalakalyana Ghrita used to boost fertility post tubal blockage treatments.
36) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula is a key component of Triphala, a trio of fruits used for their combined therapeutic benefits in various Ayurvedic formulations.
37) Rubia cordifolia:
Rubia cordifolia, known as Manjistha, is used in Ayurvedic medicine for its blood-purifying properties. It is part of the Phalakalyana Ghrita formulation.
38) Nelumbo nucifera:
Nelumbo nucifera, or lotus, is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its medicinal properties.
39) Saussurea lappa:
Saussurea lappa, also known as Kustha, is used in Ayurveda for its detoxifying properties. It is part of the Phalakalyana Ghrita formulation.
40) Santalum album:
Santalum album, or sandalwood, known for its soothing properties, is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various conditions.
41) Curcuma longa:
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, is a plant root utilized for its anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties in Ayurveda.
42) Terminalia bellirica:
Terminalia bellirica, one-third of Triphala, is used for its potent health benefits and is a component in various Ayurvedic formulations.
43) Nymphaea nouchali:
Nymphaea nouchali, or Kumuda Pushpa, is used in Ayurvedic medicine for its healing properties in formulations such as Phalakalyana Ghrita.
44) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
Shalakyatantra is a branch of Ayurveda specializing in diseases above the shoulders, but in this context, Mata Shweta's department specializing in related medical research.
45) Vitis vinifera:
Vitis vinifera, or grapes (Draksha), are included in Ayurvedic formulations like Phalakalyana Ghrita, providing beneficial health properties.
46) Vranashodhana (Vranasodhana, Vrana-shodhana):
Vranashodhana denotes wound cleansing properties. Tila Taila is noted for its Vranashodhana actions, aiding in healing and preventing infections.
47) Daruharidra (Daru-haridra):
Daruharidra, or Indian barberry, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is used in Ayurvedic preparations like Phalakalyana Ghrita.
48) Abhishyandi (Abhisyandi):
Abhishyandi refers to substances that cause blockages or obstructions. Patients are advised to avoid foods like fried and spicy items that can exacerbate such conditions.
49) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yastimadhu, or licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), is part of the Phalakalyana Ghrita formulation, aiding in treating infertility with its medicinal properties.
50) Tilataila (Tila-taila):
Tila-taila is sesame oil, extensively used in Ayurveda for its healing and therapeutic properties in various treatments like Uttarabasti.
51) Discussion:
Discussion reviews findings, explaining how Ayurvedic interventions offer promising solutions to treat tubal infertility effectively.
52) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari (Aspargos racemosa) is an Ayurvedic herb used for female reproductive health. It is a key component in Phalakalyana Ghrita for enhancing conception.
53) Ratnakara (Ratna-akara, Ratna-kara):
Ratnakara refers to Bharat Bhaishjya Ratnakara, the classical Ayurvedic text prescribing the use of Kshara Taila for female reproductive health.
54) Manjishtha (Manjistha, Mamjishtha):
Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) is known for its blood-purifying properties and is included in formulations like Phalakalyana Ghrita used for enhancing fertility.
55) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala consists of three fruits: Emblica officinalis, Terminalia bellirica, and Terminalia chebula. It is widely utilized in Ayurvedic medicines for its comprehensive health benefits.
56) Kashyapa (Kasyapa, Kashya-pa, Kashyapanamdana):
Acharya Kashyapa is an ancient Ayurvedic scholar who documented Vandhyatva (infertility) as linked to Vata dosha imbalances in classical texts.
57) Pramathi:
Pramathi signifies properties that facilitate the removal of obstructions from channels. It is a desired characteristic in medicinal oils used for tubal blockages.
58) Goghrita (Goghrta, Go-ghrita):
Goghrita means cow's ghee, widely used in Ayurvedic formulations like Phalakalyana Ghrita for its nourishing properties.
59) Godugdha:
Godugdha signifies cow's milk, utilized in Ayurvedic formulations for its therapeutic properties. In this context, it is part of the Phalakalyana Ghrita preparation.
60) Sharkara (Sarkara):
Sharkara means sugar, often utilized in Ayurvedic formulations like Phalakalyana Ghrita for its preservative and sweetening properties.
61) Medicine:
Medicine refers to any substance used to treat disease or promote health. This study revolves around Ayurvedic medicines for treating tubal infertility.
62) Nymphaea:
Nymphaea refers to a genus of water lilies. Nymphaea nouchali, used in Ayurvedic medicine, is part of the Phalakalyana Ghrita formulation for its healing properties.
63) Sukshma (Suksma, Shukshma):
Sukshma denotes the ability to penetrate minute channels in the body, enhancing the effectiveness of medicinal oils in treating conditions like tubal blockages.
64) Draksha (Draksa):
Draksha, or grapes (Vitis vinifera), are used in Ayurvedic formulations to provide nutritional benefits and improve health outcomes.
65) Ajamoda (Aja-moda):
Ajamoda, or caraway (Carum roxburghianum), is included in Ayurvedic formulations like Phalakalyana Ghrita for its medicinal properties.
66) Vandhya (Vamdhya):
Vandhya denotes a woman who is unable to conceive. Ayurvedic texts describe various treatments for overcoming Vandhya or infertility.
67) Tikshna (Tiksna):
Tikshna refers to sharp or penetrating qualities of a substance. Apamargakshara's Tikshna properties are instrumental in removing blockages in tubal infertility treatments.
68) Haridra:
Haridra, or turmeric (Curcuma longa), is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
69) Dravya:
Dravya denotes substance or material in Ayurveda used for making medicines. Each ingredient used in treatments such as Phalakalyana Ghrita is a Dravya with specific properties.
70) Kumuda:
Kumuda usually refers to certain water lilies used in Ayurvedic medicines. Nymphaea nouchali, for instance, is used for its healing properties in Phalakalyana Ghrita.
71) Vikara:
Vikara means disease or disorder. The text discusses Vandhyatva, or infertility, as a Vikara due to dosha imbalances.
72) Vipaka:
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effect of a substance. In Ayurvedic treatments, Katu Vipaka is significant in choosing medicines for their long-term impact on the body.
73) Kakoli:
Kakoli, often paired with Ksheerkakoli, is a medicinal herb used in Ayurvedic treatments. When not available, alternatives like Ashwagandha are used in formulations.
74) Katuki:
Katuki (Picrorhiza kurroa) is included for its potent therapeutic properties in Ayurvedic formulations like Phalakalyana Ghrita.
75) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kustha (Saussurea lappa) is known for its medicinal properties in treating various ailments and is included in Phalakalyana Ghrita to enhance fertility.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 99]
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