Panchakarma Treatment for PCOD: Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and the formation of small cysts in the ovaries characterize it. Left unmanaged, PCOD can lead to complications such as infertility, metabolic syndrome, and other chronic conditions. Ayurveda offers holistic solutions for managing and potentially reversing PCOD through personalized treatments like Panchakarma, dietary modifications, and herbal remedies. Before that, we will understand what PCOD is.
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What is PCOD?
A hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges, it is a hormonal imbalance. This imbalance affects the ovaries, leading to the formation of small cysts.PCOD, or Polycystic Ovarian Disease, is a hormonal disorder where the ovaries enlarge and develop small cysts along their outer edges. This condition arises from imbalances in hormones, such as insulin and androgens, and is influenced by factors like genetics, lifestyle, and stress
Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome is a relatively common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age group.
Symptoms of PCOD
Some common symptoms of PCOD include
- Common symptoms include:
- Weight gain
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Excessive facial hair growth or male-pattern baldness
- Acne and pigmentation around the neck
- Infertility
- Dark patches in skin creases (neck, groin, under breasts)
- Headaches caused by hormonal changes
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Causes of PCOD
The cause of PCOS is still unknown. However, it is possible to find the association of PCOS with low-grade inflammation, excess insulin, high male hormone production (hyperandrogenism), and genetics. In addition, the early age of menarche, an unhealthy lifestyle, and pollution are some of the factors that contribute to PCOS.
The exact cause of PCOD remains unknown, but the following factors are closely linked:
- Insulin resistance and high insulin levels
- Low-grade inflammation
- Hyperandrogenism (excess male hormones)
- Genetic predisposition
- Unhealthy lifestyle and early onset of menstruation
Complications of PCOD can include:
PCOD, if left untreated, can lead to:
-
- Infertility
- Gestational diabetes or high blood pressure during pregnancy
- Miscarriage or premature birth
- Metabolic syndrome (risk of cardiovascular diseases)
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Awareness regarding PCOD at an early stage will help to avoid future implications. Unhealthy lifestyles, stress, and excessive consumption of junk foods are some factors that need to be addressed.
16 Best Ayurvedic Herbs to Treat PCOD
Ayurvedic herbs work on symptoms that occur due to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. The benefits of taking Ayurvedic medicines for
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is as below
1) Helps to reduce weight
2) Improve metabolic rate
3) Helps to correct hormonal imbalance
4) Helps to maintain cholesterol levels.
But it is always advisable to take any medication under the guidelines of an Ayurveda Physician at Adyant Ayurveda Best Ayurveda doctor in Bangalore
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):
- Reduces stress and balances cortisol levels.
- Helps in maintaining hormonal equilibrium.
- Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus):
- Improves fertility and promotes healthy ovarian function.
- Enhances reproductive health.
- Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):
- Boosts immunity and aids in detoxification.
- Regulates blood sugar levels.
- Triphala:
- A powerful detoxifier that improves digestion and metabolism.
- Helps manage weight.
- Aloe Vera (Kumari):
- Aids in regulating menstrual cycles and managing hormonal imbalances.
- Hingvastak Churna:
- Improves digestion, preventing bloating and heaviness.
- Helps reduce abdominal discomfort linked with PCOD.
- Varuna (Crataeva nurvala):
- Known to support ovarian health and reduce cysts.
- Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa):
- Balances menstrual cycles and strengthens the reproductive system.
- Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa):
- Reduces inflammation and helps manage water retention.
- Cinnamon (Dalchini):
- Improves insulin sensitivity and helps regulate periods.
- Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum):
- Balances hormones and supports weight loss.
- Kanchanar Guggulu:
- Reduces cyst size and balances thyroid function, which can impact PCOD.
- Yashtimadhu (Licorice):
- Regulates androgen levels and supports hormonal balance.
- Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia):
- Detoxifies the body and enhances skin health.
- Neem (Azadirachta indica):
- Balances hormones and improves skin conditions like acne caused by PCOD.
- Fennel Seeds (Foeniculum vulgare):
- Promotes better digestion and hormonal balance.
Read Also: Ayurvedic Treatment for Hormonal Imbalance
Diet for PCOD According to Ayurveda
There are a few things you can do to help manage your PCOD. First, make sure you are eating a balanced diet. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as whole grains. Second, make sure you are getting enough exercise. A healthy body weight and regular exercise can help to control PCOD. Finally, make sure you are using medications as prescribed by your doctor.
1. Eat Plenty of Fiber
Fiber is important for all of us, but it’s especially important for women with PCOS. That’s because fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels, which can be a big issue for women with PCOS. Aim for at least 25 grams of fiber per day. Good sources of fiber include beans, legumes, whole grains, and vegetables.
2. Avoid Refined Carbs
Refined carbs are those that have been processed and had the fiber and other nutrients removed.
3. The first step is to focus on eating real, whole foods. This means choosing foods that are minimally processed and free of artificial ingredients.
4. Whole foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Aim to fill your diet with plenty of nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. These foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that can help support your health.
Whole grains are another important part of a healthy diet for PCOD. Choose whole grain breads, pastas, and cereals over their refined counterparts.
Lean proteins are an important part of a PCOD diet. Choose lean meats, poultry, and fish, or get your protein from plants.
Can PCOD Be Cured Permanently with Ayurveda?
Yes, Ayurveda emphasizes a holistic approach to managing and potentially curing PCOD by addressing its root causes. This includes:
- Panchakarma Therapies: Detoxification methods like Vamana, Virechana, and Basti to balance doshas.
- Herbal Medications: Support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation.
- Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications: Improve metabolism and promote overall health
How Does Panchakarma Treatment Help to Treat PCOD?
Panchakarma is a traditional Ayurvedic therapy that focuses on detoxifying and balancing the body’s energies (doshas). Panchakarma treatments potentially helps to manage the condition by addressing some of its underlying causes and associated symptoms. Here’s how Panchakarma treatment may assist in the management of PCOD:
Detoxification: Panchakarma Treatment for PCOD includes various cleansing procedures that aim to remove accumulated toxins (ama) from the body.
PCOD is believed to be linked to hormonal imbalances, and detoxification can help improve metabolic processes and hormone balance.
Hormone Regulation: Ayurvedic herbs and therapies used in Panchakarma, such as Shatavari and Ashwagandha, are known for their
potential to regulate hormones. Hormonal imbalance is a significant factor in PCOD, and Ayurvedic treatments may help restore hormonal equilibrium.
Stress Reduction: PCOD is often associated with stress, which can worsen symptoms. Panchakarma incorporates relaxation techniques, such as Abhyanga (oil massage) and Shirodhara (oil poured over the
forehead), to reduce stress and anxiety.
Diet and Lifestyle Guidance: Ayurvedic practitioners typically provide personalized dietary and lifestyle recommendations. These suggestions
can help individuals with PCOD make healthier choices, which may positively impact their condition.
Weight Management: Many women with PCOD struggle with
weight management. Panchakarma treatments may include dietary modifications and therapies to support weight management, which is important for PCOD management.
Improved Digestion: Panchakarma can enhance digestive function, which is essential for nutrient absorption and overall health. Improved digestion can contribute to better management of PCOD symptoms.
Which Panchakarma Treatments Good to Treat PCOD?
Vamana, Virechana, and Basti are three Panchakarma therapies used in Ayurveda to treat PCOD. They can be part of a comprehensive treatment approach for PCOD . Here’s how each of these therapies may help treat PCOD:
Vamana (Emesis Therapy):
Detoxification: Vamana is primarily a detoxification procedure that helps remove excess Kapha dosha from the body. In PCOD, elevated Kapha dosha can contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance,and hormonal imbalances.
Hormonal Balance: By reducing Kapha dosha, Vamana may help regulate hormones associated with PCOD, such as insulin and androgens
(male hormones). Improved hormonal balance can alleviate some PCOD symptoms.
Weight Management: Vamana can support weight loss,which is often recommended for individuals with PCOD to improve insulin
sensitivity and reduce the severity of symptoms.
Virechana (Purgation Therapy):
Detoxification: Virechana is primarily aimed at eliminating excess Pitta dosha and toxins from the body. In PCOD, an accumulation of Pitta can lead to inflammation and hormonal disruptions.
Liver Health: Virechana can help cleanse and rejuvenate the liver, which is essential for hormone metabolism. A healthy liver can better metabolize hormones and reduce PCOD symptoms.
Digestive Balance: Improved digestion and elimination resulting from Virechana can indirectly support hormonal balance by reducing
toxin buildup and inflammation.
Basti (Enema Therapy):
Hormonal Balance: Basti, especially Niruha Basti (decoction enema), can help balance Vata dosha, which is often disturbed in PCOD. Regulating Vata can have a positive impact on hormone regulation.
Gynecological Health: Basti treatments may focus on the lower abdomen and pelvic area, promoting better circulation and reducing pain
associated with PCOD.
Digestive and Metabolic Support: Basti can improve overall digestion
and metabolism, which are crucial for addressing insulin resistance and weight management in PCOD.
Panchakarma Treatment for PCOD: Overview
PCOD is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. In Ayurvedic medicine, PCOD is believed to be caused by an imbalance of the doshas, specifically an increase in kapha and a decrease in pitta.
Treatments for PCOD may include a combination of herbal remedies, Panchakarma treatments, yoga, and dietary changes.
Herbal remedies commonly used for PCOD include Shankhapushpi, Guduchi, and Licorice, which are believed to help balance hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle.
Panchakarma treatments, particularly with warm herbal oils, may be used to help reduce stress and improve blood flow to the reproductive organs.
Yoga and breathing exercises may also be recommended to help improve circulation and to manage stress, which is believed to aggravate the symptoms of PCOD.
Dietary changes may also be recommended, such as the avoidance of processed foods, sugar, and caffeine and increasing the intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.