A Critical Analysis of Rajonivriti Lakshanas and Their Pathogenesis
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: A Critical Analysis of Rajonivriti Lakshanas and Their Pathogenesis
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Varinder Kaur
P.G Scholar, Department of Rachana Sharir Tantia, Sri Ganganagar College of Ayurvedic Science & Hospital, Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, India.
Janu Manohar
Professor, Department of Rachana Sharir Tantia, Sri Ganganagar College of Ayurvedic Science & Hospital, Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, India.
Sakshi
Assistant Professor, Department of Rachana Sharir Tantia, Sri Ganganagar College of Ayurvedic Science & Hospital, Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: A Critical Analysis of Rajonivriti Lakshanas and Their Pathogenesis
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i4.792
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
In the contemporary era characterized by rapid advancements in information and technology, women's roles in society are undergoing significant transformations, particularly as they excel in various professional fields. However, women over the age of forty often face challenges associated with menopause, a natural physiological transition accompanied by hormonal changes leading to both physical and psychological distress. The term "Rajonivriti" refers to this cessation of menstruation, marking a pivotal decline in female fertility, which is addressed within the Ayurvedic framework as a manageable yet significant life phase, rather than a serious health concern.
Understanding Rajonivriti
The term "Rajonivriti" derives from two Sanskrit words: "Rajah," which denotes menstrual blood, and "Nivritti," meaning cessation. Traditionally, Ayurveda views this transition not just as an end of reproductive capability but as a natural stage of life, associated with the aging process ("Jarapakvyaavastha"). The cessation of menstruation typically occurs around the age of fifty, according to ancient texts, but it is acknowledged that individual variations and external factors can influence this timeline. Conditions arising during this transition are referred to as Menopausal Syndromes, which can present a variety of symptoms, including vasomotor, psychological, and gastrointestinal issues.
Pathogenesis of Rajonivriti
The pathogenesis of Rajonivriti is rooted in the vitiation of the Vata dosha, which predominantly affects women during their menopausal phase. As women approach fifty, physiological decline occurs, leading to symptoms associated with increased Vata, such as dryness, restlessness, and a general loss of vitality. Ayurvedic texts categorize the symptoms of Rajonivriti into three main types based on doshic influences: Vataja (related to Vata dosha), Pittaja (related to Pitta dosha), and Kaphaja (related to Kapha dosha). Each type displays distinct manifestations, with Vataja symptoms often presenting as pain and restlessness, Pittaja symptoms including heat sensations and fatigue, and Kaphaja symptoms tied to heaviness and dampness.
Conclusion
While Rajonivriti is a natural process linked to aging, its psychological and physiological impacts can distress women significantly, thus requiring careful consideration within the health framework. The symptomatology associated with Rajonivriti correlates primarily with Vata dosha aggravation alongside a decline in the other doshas and dhatus. Understanding the intricate pathogenesis of Rajonivriti not only aids in correlating clinical symptoms but also emphasizes the need for research and therapeutic approaches to mitigate its adverse effects on women's health during this critical life transition.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Rajonivriti and its significance in women's health?
Rajonivriti refers to menopause, marking the cessation of menstruation. It represents a decline in fertility and involves various physiological and psychological changes that women undergo, often causing discomfort and requiring attention for overall health management.
What are the primary symptoms associated with Rajonivriti?
Symptoms of Rajonivriti include vasomotor disturbances, psychological effects, and various changes in the genital, locomotor, and gastrointestinal systems. Women may experience hot flashes, mood swings, and reduced libido during this transitional phase.
How do Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas relate to Rajonivriti?
Rajonivriti involves the aggravation of Vata dosha, leading to symptoms like dryness and anxiety. Pitta dosha's involvement may manifest as heat and irritability, while Kapha dosha might lead to symptoms of weight gain and lethargy during menopause.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A Critical Analysis of Rajonivriti Lakshanas and Their Pathogenesis�. 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) Lakshana (Laksana):
In Ayurveda, 'Lakshana' refers to symptoms or signs of a disease or condition. In the context of the provided text, various lakshanas associated with Rajonivriti, such as Vataja Lakshanas, Pittaja Lakshanas, and Kaphaja Lakshanas, are indicative of the physical and psychological alterations during menopause.
2) Dosha (Dosa):
'Dosha' in Ayurveda represents the three fundamental bodily bio-elements—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The text discusses how these doshas, particularly Vatadosha, play a role in the pathogenesis and symptoms of Rajonivriti.
3) Vata:
'Vata' is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda. It governs movement, including physiological processes and nerve impulses. The dominant Vata Dosha influences the symptoms and pathogenesis of menopause, causing various lakshanas like dryness, anxiety, and other age-related changes.
4) Dhatukshaya (Dhatuksaya, Dhatu-kshaya):
'Dhatukshaya' refers to the depletion or loss of bodily tissues. In the context of Rajonivriti, Dhatukshaya contributes to symptoms and the overall pathogenesis of menopausal conditions by affecting various dhatus such as Rasa and Rakta.
5) Sakshi (Saksi):
[see source text or glossary: Sakshi]
6) Shosha (Sosa):
'Shosha' denotes dryness or emaciation in Ayurvedic terminology. It occurs due to the aggravation of Vatadosha during Rajonivriti, leading to symptoms like dry skin, hair, and other body tissues undergoing deterioration.
7) Janu:
[see source text or glossary: Janu]
8) Menstrual blood:
In the text, 'Menstrual blood' is referred to using various Sanskrit terms like Rajah, Artava, and Asrika. It signifies the blood that flows during menstruation, indicating the reproductive phase in women. Its cessation marks the onset of Rajonivriti.
9) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
'Vatadosha' stands for the Vata type of imbalance or disorder in the body. It represents a specific set of symptoms and pathogenesis during Rajonivriti, affecting both physical and psychological states such as anxiety, dryness, and irregular menstruation.
10) Vitiation (Vitiated):
'Vitiation' refers to the state of being impure or imbalanced, especially concerning the doshas in Ayurvedic context. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas become vitiated or disturbed due to various factors causing symptoms of Rajonivriti.
11) Rukshata (Ruksata):
'Rukshata' means dryness, a prominent feature of increased Vata Dosha, particularly during Rajonivriti. This manifests as dry skin, hair, and general dehydration in the body’s tissues.
12) Disease:
In Ayurveda, a 'Disease' is an imbalance of doshas along with the dhatus and malas. The text discusses Menopausal Syndromes as a diseased state arising from the imbalance of doshas, leading to physical and psychological symptoms.
13) Nidana:
'Nidana' signifies the causes or etiological factors of a disease. The text outlines 'Nidana' for Rajonivriti, which includes age, lifestyle, and environmental factors contributing to the onset of menopause.
14) Bhrama:
'Bhrama' refers to dizziness or giddiness. It is one of the symptoms or lakshanas associated with the vitiation of Vata Dosha during Rajonivriti or menopause.
15) Pitta:
'Pitta' is one of the three doshas that represent heat and metabolism in the body. During Rajonivriti, Pitta dosha may lead to symptoms like hot flashes, irritability, and excessive sweating.
16) Blood:
'Blood' in the context of Ayurveda is often referred to as 'Rakta'. Menstrual blood, or Artava, is a key component discussed in relation to reproductive health and Rajonivriti. Imbalance in Rakta leads to various symptoms of menopause.
17) Kala:
'Kala' signifies time or period. It is used to define the onset of different life stages. In the text, the age of menopause is referred to as 'Rajonivriti Kala', which is approximately around 50 years.
18) Samprapti:
'Samprapti' refers to the pathogenesis or the process of disease development. The text details the Samprapti of Rajonivriti, including the imbalances in doshas and dhatus leading to menopausal symptoms.
19) Angamarda (Anga-marda, Amgamarda):
'Angamarda' means body ache or malaise. It is one of the symptoms associated with the imbalance of doshas during Rajonivriti, leading to discomfort and pain in different parts of the body.
20) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance in bodily systems using diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing. The text explores menopausal symptoms and their management through Ayurvedic principles.
21) Kaphaja:
'Kaphaja' refers to symptoms or conditions related to the imbalance of Kapha Dosha. In the context of Rajonivriti, these symptoms include lethargy, edema, and other Kapha-related manifestations.
22) Mrityu (Mrtyu):
'Mrityu' means death. Ayurveda considers menopause (Rajonivriti) a natural process similar to aging (Jara) and death, indicating the end of a reproductive cycle and marking a significant life stage transition.
23) Artava:
'Artava' represents menstrual blood and is essential for reproduction. The cessation of Artava indicates the onset of Rajonivriti, marking the end of the reproductive phase in a woman’s life.
24) Kshaya (Ksaya):
'Kshaya' means depletion or deficiency of body tissues. During Rajonivriti, various dhatus (body tissues) undergo kshaya leading to symptoms like weakness, dryness, and emaciation, typically influenced by Vatadosha.
25) Rakta:
'Rakta' refers to blood or the blood tissue in Ayurvedic terms. Menstrual blood (Artava) is a form of Rakta, and its cessation during Rajonivriti is indicative of menopause and declining reproductive capability.
26) Glani:
'Glani' signifies fatigue or exhaustion, a common symptom during menopause. It results from the imbalance in Pitta and Vata doshas, leading to decreased energy and weariness.
27) Jara (Jara°, Jará):
'Jara' means aging. Rajonivriti, the cessation of menstruation, is closely associated with the natural aging process, leading to various physiological and psychological changes driven by Vatadosha dominance.
28) Raja:
'Raja' in the text represents menstrual blood or menstrual cycle. It is a crucial aspect of women’s reproductive health, and its cessation, known as Rajonivriti, marks the onset of menopause.
29) Vayu:
'Vayu' represents air or wind and is closely associated with Vata Dosha. Its dominance during Rajonivriti contributes to many Vata-related symptoms, such as dryness, anxiety, and irregular bodily functions.
30) Hrid (Hrt, Hrit, Hrd):
[see source text or glossary: Hrid]
31) Saptadhatu (Sapta-dhatu, Saptan-dhatu):
'Saptadhatu' refers to the seven bodily tissues in Ayurveda—Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra. The proper functioning of these dhatus is disrupted during Rajonivriti, contributing to various menopausal symptoms.
32) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
'Pittadosha' represents the Pitta type of imbalance that regulates heat and metabolism. In the context of Rajonivriti, its symptoms include hot flashes, irritability, and excessive sweating due to the aggravated Pitta Dosha.
33) Abhighata:
'Abhighata' means external injury or trauma. Though not specified directly in the text, such factors can contribute to the etiological causes (Nidana) of Rajonivriti or menopausal symptoms.
34) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
'Rasadhatu' refers to the plasma or fluid part of the blood, which nourishes all the tissues. In the context of Rajonivriti, the decline or vitiation of Rasadhatu impacts various bodily functions and menopausal symptoms.
35) Rajasthan:
The text mentions authors affiliated with the Sri Ganganagar College of Ayurvedic Science & Hospital, located in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, India, highlighting the regional context of the research on Rajonivriti.
36) Katishula (Katisula, Kati-shula):
'Katishula' means pain in the lower back, a common symptom during menopause due to Vata imbalance, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility.
37) Substance:
[see source text or glossary: Substance]
38) Nivritti (Nivrtti):
'Nivritti' means cessation or stopping. Rajonivriti refers to the cessation of menstruation, marking the onset of menopause and the end of the reproductive phase in women.
39) Vibandha:
'Vibandha' refers to constipation. It is a symptom associated with the vitiation of Vata Dosha during Rajonivriti, contributing to digestive discomfort and other gastrointestinal issues.
40) Raukshya (Rauksya):
'Raukshya' means dryness. It is a characteristic symptom of Vata Dosha imbalance that is prominent during Rajonivriti, affecting skin, hair, and other tissues.
41) Sukshma (Suksma, Shukshma):
'Shukshma' means subtlety. It is one of the qualities of Vata Dosha, which plays a role in the various physiological and psychological changes observed during the Rajonivriti phase.
42) Rudhira:
'Rudhira' is another term for blood. Though not directly covered here, it is associated with menstrual blood and changes in blood tissue during menopause in Ayurvedic texts.
43) Shushka (Suska):
'Shushka' means dry. During Rajonivriti, increased Vata Dosha leads to symptoms like Shushka or dryness affecting different parts of the body, including skin and mucous membranes.
44) Kshudha (Ksudha):
'Kshudha' means hunger. While not directly discussed, it is listed under natural occurring conditions in Ayurveda, which can become imbalanced during Rajonivriti, affecting metabolism and appetite.
45) Shonita (Sonita):
'Shonita' refers to blood. In the context of Rajonivriti, it is one of the synonyms used for menstrual blood, indicating its importance in reproductive health and its cessation marking menopause.
46) Dharana:
'Dharana' signifies retention or holding. It is one of the mental functions that might get impaired during Rajonivriti due to Vata imbalance, affecting concentration and memory.
47) Laghuta:
'Laghuta' means lightness, a characteristic quality of Vata Dosha. Increased Laghuta contributes to symptoms like weakness and loss of physical strength during Rajonivriti.
48) Grahana:
[see source text or glossary: Grahana]
49) Adhmana:
'Adhmana' means abdominal distension. It is a symptom of Vata Dosha imbalance commonly observed during Rajonivriti, leading to feelings of fullness and bloating.
50) Nivriti (Nivrti):
'Nivriti' means cessation or stopping. Rajonivriti refers to the cessation of menstruation, marking the onset of menopause and the end of the reproductive phase in women.
51) Palitya:
'Palitya' means graying of hair. Increased Vata Dosha during Rajonivriti leads to symptoms like Palitya, indicating aging and hormonal changes affecting the hair color.
52) Pittaja (Pitta-ja):
'Pittaja' refers to symptoms or conditions related to the imbalance of Pitta Dosha. In Rajonivriti, Pittaja lakshanas include hot flashes, irritability, and excessive sweating.
53) Doshaja (Dosha-ja, Dosaja):
'Doshaja' signifies diseases or symptoms caused by the imbalance of doshas. Rajonivriti involves various Doshaja conditions such as Vataja, Pittaja, and Kaphaja lakshanas leading to menopausal symptoms.
54) Shabda (Sabda):
[see source text or glossary: Shabda]
55) Lohita:
'Lohita' also refers to blood. Though it is not elaborately discussed in this context, it is one of the synonyms for menstrual blood, relating to its role in Rajonivriti.
56) Sandhi (Shandhi, Samdhi):
'Sandhi' means joints. Issues like Sandhi Vedana (joint pain) are common during Rajonivriti due to the dominance of Vata Dosha, resulting in pain and decreased mobility.
57) Vedana:
'Vedana' refers to pain or sensation. During Rajonivriti, Vatadosha contributes to various forms of Vedana, such as joint pain, headache, and general discomfort in the body.
58) Ruksha (Ruksa):
'Ruksha' means dry. It describes one of the qualities of Vata Dosha, which becomes prominent during Rajonivriti, leading to symptoms of dryness in skin, hair, and other tissues.
59) Dushya (Dusya):
'Dushya' refers to the affected body tissues in Ayurvedic pathology. During Rajonivriti, the dushyas include Saptadhatu like Rasa and Rakta, which undergo changes causing various symptoms.
60) Ashaya (Asaya):
'Ashaya' signifies the bodily spaces or receptacles like the uterus (Garbhashaya). In the context of Rajonivriti, imbalances can affect these areas leading to symptoms of dryness and atrophy.
61) Vihara:
'Vihara' signifies lifestyle or activities. The text emphasizes the significance of Vihara, along with Ahara (diet), in maintaining health and managing symptoms associated with Rajonivriti.
62) Sharana (Sarana, Sarane):
'Sarana' refers to the mental function of evacuation or elimination. Disruption of Sarana can occur due to Vata imbalance during Rajonivriti, affecting mental processes and cognition.
63) Patana:
'Patana' signifies the falling or shedding off. In Rajonivriti, symptoms like Nakha Patana (nail shedding) and Kesha Patana (hair fall) are prominent due to Vata-induced dryness.
64) Krodha:
'Krodha' means anger. It is one of the psychological symptoms observed during Rajonivriti due to the vitiation of Manovahasrotas and the dominance of Vata Dosha.
65) Chinta:
'Chinta' denotes worry or anxiety. During Rajonivriti, the imbalance of Vata Dosha contributes to increased Chinta, affecting mental well-being and resulting in emotional instability.
66) Pipasa:
'Pipasa' means thirst. It is listed under natural conditions in Ayurveda and can become aggravated during Rajonivriti due to Vata or Pitta imbalance, leading to increased or decreased thirst.
67) Anidra:
'Anidra' means insomnia or lack of sleep. It is a common symptom of Vata Dosha imbalance during Rajonivriti, affecting sleep patterns and overall health.
68) Vataja (Vata-ja):
'Vataja' refers to symptoms or conditions associated with Vata Dosha imbalance. In Rajonivriti, Vataja Lakshanas include dryness, anxiety, joint pain, and other related symptoms.
69) Pushpa (Puspa):
'Pushpa' signifies flower and is used as a metaphor for menstrual blood in the Ayurvedic texts. Its cessation during Rajonivriti indicates the end of the reproductive phase.
70) Shiras (Siras, Siro, Shirash):
'Shirah' means head. Symptoms like Shirah Shula (headache) are common during Rajonivriti due to Vata imbalance, causing discomfort and affecting daily functioning.
71) Nature:
'Nature' in this context refers to the natural process of Rajonivriti, much like aging (Jara) and death (Mrityu). It is a physiological change inherent to the life cycle of women.
72) Thirst:
'Thirst' or Pipasa is regulated by doshic balance. Vata or Pitta imbalance during Rajonivriti can lead to abnormalities in thirst, either increasing or decreasing it abnormally.
73) Khara:
'Khara' signifies roughness, a quality of Vata Dosha. Increased Khara during Rajonivriti results in rough skin, hair, and other tissues, indicating Vata dominance.
74) Bhaya:
'Bhaya' means fear. It is one of the psychological symptoms that can manifest during Rajonivriti due to mental instability and Vata imbalance, causing emotional disturbances.
75) Chala (Chala°):
'Chala' means mobility, a feature of Vata Dosha. Increased Chala during Rajonivriti leads to instability, restlessness, and irregularity in various physiological functions.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 100]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �A Critical Analysis of Rajonivriti Lakshanas and Their Pathogenesis�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Dhatukshaya, Vatadosha, Menopausal syndrome, Dhatuparipurnata, Manovahasrotas, Age of menopause.