A Review: Shed Light on Ayurvedic Description of Menopause
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: A Review: Shed Light on Ayurvedic Description of Menopause
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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Kshama Kulkarni
PG Scholar, Department of PG Studies in Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga, Rajiv Gandhi Education Society鈥檚 Ayurvedic Medical College Hospital & PG Research Centre, Rona, Karnataka, India.
Rakesh Mishra
PG Scholar, Department of PG Studies in Panchakarma, Rajiv Gandhi Education Society鈥檚 Ayurvedic Medical College Hospital & PG Research Centre, Rona, Karnataka, India.
I.B. Kotturshetti
Principal, CMO and Sr Professor, Rajiv Gandhi Education Society鈥檚 Ayurvedic Medical College Hospital & PG Research Centre, Rona, Karnataka, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: A Review: Shed Light on Ayurvedic Description of Menopause
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i4.759
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Menopause is a significant phase in a woman's reproductive life, marking the end of her menstrual cycles and fertility, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. This transition is accompanied by numerous physical and psychological changes, collectively referred to as menopausal syndrome, which can include symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and osteoporosis. In Ayurveda, this process is termed 鈥淩ajonivritti,鈥� and the associated symptoms are seen as a natural physiological state rather than a pathological condition. Ayurvedic theories attribute these symptoms to imbalances in the body鈥檚 three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and the deterioration of subtler dhatus, highlighting the need for holistic treatment strategies.
The Ayurvedic Perspective on Menopause
In Ayurveda, menopause or Rajonivritti is not considered a disease, but a natural progression of aging known as 鈥�Jara Pakva Avastha.鈥� The age at which a woman experiences this transition varies but is generally around 50 years, when Vata dosha becomes predominant, leading to a decline in the other doshas and the dhatus responsible for tissue nourishment. Symptoms are driven by insufficient nutrition and hormonal imbalances due to declining Agni (digestive fire), manifesting as psychological disturbances alongside physical symptoms. Addressing the menopausal condition focuses on nurturing bodily tissues and balancing the doshas through dietary and lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, and Panchakarma therapies.
Management Strategies in Ayurveda
Ayurvedic management emphasizes prevention and long-term health over symptomatic treatment. It includes dietary recommendations tailored to balance the predominant dosha, suggested lifestyle changes, and the use of specific herbal preparations and therapies. For instance, Rasayana therapy aims to rejuvenate the body's dhatus and boost immunity, using nourishing substances like ghee and milk to combat the effects of menopause. These methods seek not only to alleviate symptoms but to offer a sustainable approach to health, enhancing overall quality of life during and after the menopause transition.
Conclusion
Menopause, recognized as 鈥淩ajonivritti鈥� in Ayurveda, is understood as a natural transition rather than a pathological concern. The Ayurvedic approach to managing menopausal symptoms provides effective strategies that align with individual constitution and lifestyle, offering holistic solutions for the symptoms associated with this life phase. It underscores the importance of preventive strategies, the use of herbal medicine, and lifestyle adjustments in managing menopausal syndrome, promoting a better quality of life for women undergoing this natural transition. Through Ayurvedic practices, women can achieve a balanced state of health and well-being during menopause.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is menopause and how does it affect women?
Menopause is a natural phase occurring between ages 45-55, marking the cessation of menstruation. It brings physical and mental transformations, accompanied by symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, collectively known as menopausal syndrome.
How does Ayurveda approach menopausal symptoms?
Ayurveda views menopause as a physiological state, termed 'Rajonivritti.' It focuses on correcting hormonal imbalances through diet, lifestyle changes, and therapies like Shamana, Shodhana, and Rasayana to alleviate symptoms and promote overall health during this transition.
What are the modern treatments for menopause?
Modern medicine typically employs Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to manage menopausal symptoms. While effective for short-term relief, it may cause complications like increased risks of certain cancers and cardiovascular issues, hence constant management is essential.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淎 Review: Shed Light on Ayurvedic Description of Menopause鈥�. 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) Disease:
In Ayurveda, menopause is not considered a disease but a natural physiological state. However, the symptoms of menopause result from an imbalance of the Tridosha, leading to various health issues, which can sometimes be perceived as diseased conditions.
2) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana therapy in Ayurveda is vital during menopause. It aims to rejuvenate and nourish the body, enhancing the overall quality of all Sapta Dhatus (seven bodily tissues). It involves consuming specific herbal formulations, foods, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle to delay the aging process.
3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient holistic health system that categorizes menopause as a natural, physiological state ('Rajonivritti'). It provides therapeutic approaches like Rasayana therapy and Panchakarma to manage menopausal symptoms, focusing on balancing Doshas, nutrition, and lifestyle changes.
4) Dosha (Dosa):
In Ayurveda, Doshas are biological energies found in the human body and mind, namely Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Imbalances in these Doshas, especially Vata and Pitta, play a significant role in menopausal symptoms and need to be balanced for effective management.
5) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to symptoms or clinical features. During menopause, symptoms can be categorized according to doshic imbalances鈥擵ata, Pitta, and Kapha Lakshanas, along with Dhatukshaya (tissue depletion) and Manasika (psychological) symptoms like anxiety and mood swings.
6) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya in Ayurvedic terms means depletion or deficiency. Menopause involves Dhatukshaya, which refers to the depletion of body tissues starting from Rasa (plasma) and leading to Shukra (reproductive tissues), causing various physical and psychological symptoms.
7) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the seven bodily tissues in Ayurveda: Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (bone marrow), and Shukra (reproductive tissue). Maintaining the health of these tissues is vital, especially during menopause when Dhatukshaya can occur.
8) Vata:
Vata is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and function. Its increase during menopause, characterized by symptoms like dryness and irregular menstruation, can cause a range of physical and psychological issues, necessitating balancing measures.
9) Drug:
In Ayurveda, herbs and natural preparations are used as drugs to manage menopausal symptoms. Examples include Shatavari and Ashwagandha, which help balance hormones and provide nutritional support to alleviate symptoms of menopause.
10) Food:
Ayurveda emphasizes specific foods for managing menopause, aligning the diet with one's Dosha. For Vata, warm and moist foods are recommended, while for Pitta, cooling foods. This helps balance bodily processes and supports overall health.
11) Diet:
A balanced diet is crucial in Ayurveda for managing menopausal symptoms. Foods that balance Vata, Pitta, and Kapha can alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, emphasizing whole grains, fruits, and specific herbs in the diet.
12) Dhatukshaya (Dhatuksaya, Dhatu-kshaya):
Dhatukshaya refers to the depletion of the body's tissues, which occurs naturally during menopause due to aging. This depletion manifests in various symptoms like osteoporosis, decreased strength, and dryness, necessitating treatments to replenish and support tissue health.
13) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas responsible for metabolism and digestion. During menopause, Pitta can become imbalanced, leading to symptoms like hot flashes and irritability, requiring cooling foods and lifestyle adjustments to manage these effects.
14) Medicine:
Ayurvedic medicine for menopause includes herbal formulations like Shatavari Ghrita and Ashwagandha Churna, used to balance Doshas and address symptoms of Dhatukshaya and psychological disturbances induced by menopause.
15) Avastha:
Avastha refers to the state or condition of health. During menopause, the woman's Avashtha involves managing transitional symptoms and maintaining balance through diet, lifestyle, and Ayurvedic treatments like Rasayana and Panchakarma.
16) Cancer:
[see source text or glossary: Cancer]
17) Nature:
Nature ('Swabhava') in Ayurveda indicates natural aging processes like menopause. Menopause is acknowledged as a natural physiological stage, and its symptoms are managed by respecting the body's natural rhythms and maintaining hormonal balance.
18) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas, associated with structure and stability. During menopause, a decrease in Kapha can lead to symptoms like dryness and joint issues, requiring balancing through specific diet and lifestyle changes.
19) Jara (Jara掳, Jar谩):
Jara refers to old age or senescence in Ayurveda. Menopause is considered part of Jara, characterized by natural decline in body functions and tissues (Dhatukshaya), which are managed through Rasayana therapy and lifestyle modifications.
20) Agni:
Agni denotes the digestive fire or metabolic processes in Ayurveda. During menopause, weakened Agni can lead to poor nutrition and Dhatukshaya, necessitating dietary adjustments and treatments to strengthen Agni and improve health.
21) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa is one of the seven Dhatus representing the primary fluid tissue or plasma. Its depletion during menopause can lead to symptoms like dryness and fatigue. Ayurvedic treatments aim to nourish and replenish Rasa to manage these symptoms.
22) Medas (Meda, Medash):
Meda is one of the seven Dhatus, corresponding to fat tissue. During menopause, depletion of Meda contributes to symptoms like dryness and loss of energy. Ayurvedic treatments focus on nourishing Meda through diet and herbal formulations.
23) Saptadhatu (Sapta-dhatu, Saptan-dhatu):
[see source text or glossary: Saptadhatu]
24) Shaithilya (Saithilya):
[see source text or glossary: Shaithilya]
25) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari is a renowned Ayurvedic herb used during menopause for its estrogenic and rejuvenating properties. It helps balance hormones, alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, and strengthen reproductive tissues.
26) Rukshata (Ruksata):
Rukshata means dryness, a common symptom during menopause due to Vata imbalance. Dietary and lifestyle adjustments focusing on hydration and oiliness, along with specific treatments, help manage this condition.
27) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or clarified butter (ghee), is used in Ayurveda for its nourishing and rejuvenating properties. During menopause, regular consumption of Ghrita supports Dhatu health, enhances Ojas, and alleviates symptoms like dryness.
28) Shrama (Srama):
Shrama means fatigue, often experienced during menopause due to Dhatukshaya. Ayurvedic treatments including Rasayana therapy and dietary adjustments help combat fatigue and restore vitality.
29) Manas (Mano, Manash):
Manas refers to the mind. Psychological symptoms during menopause, such as mood swings and anxiety, are managed by balancing Manas with herbs, lifestyle changes, and Satvavajaya Chikitsa (counseling and reassurance).
30) Yoni (Yonin):
Yoni refers to the female reproductive system. Menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness and itching are seen as imbalances in the Yoni, treated with specific herbs, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments in Ayurveda.
31) Mana:
[see source text or glossary: Mana]
32) Kala:
Kala means time or age. Menopause occurs naturally around the age of 50, influenced by the progression of Kala and resulting in an increased Vata Dosha, necessitating specific Ayurvedic management strategies.
33) Mud:
Mood changes are a common psychological symptom of menopause. Ayurveda addresses mood swings with herbs like Ashwagandha, lifestyle adjustments, and Satvavajaya Chikitsa to maintain emotional balance.
34) Ashvagandha (Asvagandha, Ashwagandha, Ashvagamdha, Ashva-gandha):
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb that helps manage menopausal symptoms due to its adaptogenic properties. It reduces stress, improves energy levels, and balances hormones, making it valuable for mitigating various menopausal issues.
35) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
[see source text or glossary: Vatapitta]
36) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
[see source text or glossary: Vata-dosa]
37) Meditation:
Meditation is recommended in Ayurveda for managing the stress and psychological symptoms associated with menopause. It helps balance the mind and body, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental well-being.
38) Daurbalya:
[see source text or glossary: Daurbalya]
39) Sadvritta (Sadvrtta, Sat-vritta):
Sadvritta refers to ethical and healthy lifestyle practices in Ayurveda. Following Sadvritta is crucial during menopause to maintain physical and mental health, including proper diet, exercise, and stress management techniques.
40) Mustard:
In Ayurveda, mustard and its oil are recommended for their warming properties. Mustard oil can be used for massages during menopause to alleviate symptoms related to Vata imbalance like joint stiffness and muscle aches.
41) Doshaja (Dosha-ja, Dosaja):
[see source text or glossary: Doshaja]
42) Dravya:
Dravya refers to substances or materials used in Ayurvedic treatments. During menopause, specific Dravyas like Shatavari and Ashwagandha are used for their hormone-balancing and rejuvenative properties.
43) Sandhi (Shandhi, Samdhi):
Sandhi refers to joints. During menopause, joint issues like stiffness or pain, linked to Vata imbalance, are managed through diet, lifestyle changes, and specific herbal treatments in Ayurveda.
44) Vedana:
Vedana means pain. Menopausal symptoms can include various types of pain like migraines or joint pain, which are managed in Ayurveda through balancing Doshas and using specific treatments such as Panchakarma.
45) Artava:
Artava refers to menstrual blood or menstruation. Menopause, indicated by the cessation of Artava, leads to various symptoms that are managed through Ayurvedic treatments aimed at balancing the body's systems.
46) Nidana:
Nidana refers to the causative factors of a condition. For menopause, Aging, Vata Dosha, and Dhatukshaya are some key Nidanas that are managed through specific Ayurvedic therapies and lifestyle practices.
47) Shosha (Sosa):
[see source text or glossary: Shosha]
48) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi refers to bone tissue. Menopause can lead to Asthi Kshaya (bone depletion), causing issues like osteoporosis. Ayurvedic treatments aim to strengthen Asthi through nutrition and Rasayana therapy.
49) Ahara:
Ahara means diet. Ayurveda emphasizes a diet that balances Doshas and supports overall health. During menopause, Ahara tailored to Dosha imbalances can alleviate symptoms and support well-being.
50) Shula (Sula):
Shula means pain, which is a symptom often associated with menopause. Ayurveda manages Shula with dietary changes, herbal formulations, and treatments that balance the Doshas.
51) Balya:
Balya refers to strength and nourishment. Herbs like Shatavari and Ashwagandha are considered Balya and are used to support strength and vitality during menopause, combating symptoms of Dhatukshaya.
52) Sugar:
[see source text or glossary: Sugar]
53) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweating, especially night sweats, is a common menopausal symptom associated with Pitta imbalance. Ayurveda addresses this through cooling foods and herbs to balance Pitta Dosha.
54) Roga:
[see source text or glossary: Roga]
55) Raja:
Raja refers to menstrual blood or one of the mental Doshas (passion). An imbalance in Raja during menopause can lead to psychological symptoms, managed by Ayurvedic treatments targeting mental and physical health.
56) Tama:
Tama is one of the mental Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with darkness and inertia. Imbalance in Tama during menopause can lead to psychological symptoms like depression, managed by lifestyle changes and mental health practices.
57) Hani:
[see source text or glossary: Hani]
58) Hetu:
Hetu refers to causative factors. In menopause, Hetus include aging and Dhatukshaya, managed by addressing these root causes through Ayurvedic treatments and lifestyle adjustments.
59) Ojas:
Ojas is the essence of all bodily tissues and the basis of vitality. During menopause, maintaining Ojas is crucial to managing symptoms, achieved through Rasayana therapy and nourishing diet.
60) Vayu:
[see source text or glossary: Vayu]
61) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee or clarified butter is used in Ayurveda for its nourishing and rejuvenating properties. During menopause, regular consumption of ghee supports Dhatus and helps manage symptoms like dryness and fatigue.
62) Milk:
Milk is recommended in Ayurveda for its nourishing properties, aiding in the management of menopausal symptoms by supporting tissue health and balancing the body's systems.
63) Mustard oil:
Mustard oil is used in Ayurvedic therapies for its warming properties. During menopause, it helps manage Vata symptoms like joint pain and stiffness through massages and other external applications.
64) Meat soup:
[see source text or glossary: Meat soup]
65) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
[see source text or glossary: Transformation]
66) Svasthavritta (Svasthavrtta, Svastha-vritta):
Svasthavritta refers to daily health practices in Ayurveda. During menopause, adhering to Svasthavritta such as proper diet, exercise, and stress management is essential for maintaining health and mitigating symptoms.
67) Shukrajanana (Shukra-janana, Sukrajanana):
[see source text or glossary: Shukrajanana]
68) Vayasthapana (Vaya-sthapana):
[see source text or glossary: Vayasthapana]
69) Mamsakshaya (Mamsaksaya, Mamsha-kshaya, Mamsa-kshaya):
[see source text or glossary: Mamsa-kshaya]
70) Chemotherapy:
[see source text or glossary: Chemotherapy]
71) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
[see source text or glossary: Rasadhatu]
72) Shukradhatu (Sukradhatu, Shukra-dhatu):
[see source text or glossary: Sukradhatu]
73) Shirodhara (Sirodhara, Shiras-dhara):
[see source text or glossary: Shirodhara]
74) Discussion:
[see source text or glossary: Discussion]
75) Depression:
[see source text or glossary: Depression]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 171]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�A Review: Shed Light on Ayurvedic Description of Menopause鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Samana, Nidana, Agni, Prakriti, Tridosha, Dhatukshaya, Rasayana therapy, Lifestyle modification, Menstrual cycle, Quality of life, Aging process, Panchakarma therapies, Hormone Replacement Therapy, Shodhana Chikitsa, Sadhyasadhyata, Menopausal syndrome, Psychological Disturbance, Rajonivrutti, Menopausal Symptoms Management.