Ayurveda is a 3,000-year-old science which supports holistic healing and is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on the harmony of the mind, body and spirit. Contrary to the popular belief, absence of a disease does not necessarily make you healthy.
PCOS cannot be “cured” by JUST popping pills into your system. There is a whole set of lifestyle changes that are necessary. Using the “power of food” as medicine along with movement and a balanced lifestyle is a sure shot way towards its reversal!
In this article, we explore Ayurveda’s take on PCOS/PCOD which is often overlooked in modern science.
Ayurveda believes that sickness is a result of an imbalance between the three doshas –
- Vata
This energy controls very basic body functions like, division of cells. It also controls your mind, breath, blood flow, heart function, and the ability to get rid of body waste through your intestines. A disruption in vatta can be caused by habitual overthinking, overeating, sedentary lifestyle, inactivity, staying up late at the night, etc
- Pitta
It controls your digestion and metabolism. Things that can disrupt it are eating sour or spicy foods, irregular eating times, and being under the sun for too long.
- Kapha
This life force controls muscle growth, body strength and stability, weight, and your immune system. It gets disturbed by sleeping a lot during the day, consuming too much sugar, and excessive salt and water intake.
Our bodies have a unique combination of the above doshas and our bodies can have different dominant energies. The chances of developing an illness depends on how your body functions and reacts with them.
Even though Ayurveda doesn’t explicitly have PCOS as a listed syndrome, many of the symptoms of PCOS as well as pregnancy and infertility issues are individually related to these doshas. According to Ayurveda , PCOD can be classified under kapha dosha and its solution aims at clearing the obstruction of vata dosha of the pelvis and normalizing the menstrual cycle as well as balancing metabolism.
After your PCOS diagnosis, you may want to include some Ayurvedic herbs in your diet and get the nutritional and medicinal benefits they have to offer.
Some Ayurvedic herbs are:
1) Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus)
Shatavari is a rich source of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, folic acid, and minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, and iron. Presence of these nutrients makes this herb a perfect antioxidant which protects the reproductive system in females. Shatavari is known to enhance fertility in women and is often prescribed to women with PCOS and pregnancy related problem. Owing to its anti-diabetic properties, it also helps in increasing insulin-sensitivity.
2) Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)
Ashwagandha naturally boosts your energy levels and is a perfect remedy for controlling mood swings. It is a rich source of adaptogen, which helps our body in adapting to internal and external stresses.
3) Shilajit (Purified Asphaltum)
Shilajit along with its anti-inflammatory properties, is also a great immunity booster and helps in rejuvenating the reproductive system in women. PCOS women often suffer from excessive bleeding which results in an iron deficiency and weakness. Shilajit, being rich in iron, is the best for levelling up your iron deficiency.
4) Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula)
Terminalia chebula is a rich source of vitamin C and other minerals such as selenium, copper, potassium, and manganese. This herbal tonic has anti-tumor, and anti-inflammatory properties, and helps in relieving complications such as constipation, flatulence, colitis, etc.
5) Vrikshamla (Garcinia Cambogia)
This amazing fruit hails from the family of citrus fruits and boasts the abundance of hydroxy citric acid (HCA). Women with PCOS often have a hard time losing weight, and have constant sugar cravings or hunger pangs. HCA is beneficial for improving your exercise performance, aids in weight loss and keeps a control on your appetite.
6) Nagara (Zingiber Officinale)
Colloquially known as ginger, it is one of the most commonly used herbs across the world. Ginger is full of anti-cancer properties which prevent the uterus from cancer and other infections. As women with PCOS are more vulnerable to endometrial cancer. Ginger is also effective in relieving menstrual pain.
7) Devadaru (Cedrus Deodara)
This one is known for its anti-inflammatory, muscle-relaxing qualities. It is used to reduce cramps during menstruation and in treating obesity. It also seems to have proven effective against diabetes.
8) Lodhra (Symplocos Racemosa)
Lodhra is a rich source of compounds called flavonol glycosides which are highly effective in reducing uterine disorders. Regulating ovarian hormones and improving fertility are other benefits this herb has to offer.
Let me introduce you to the very famous Pancha karma treatment for PCOS!
Panchakarma (five actions) is a cleansing and rejuvenating program for the body, mind and consciousness.
Panchakarma for PCOS is quite a common treatment for reversal and healing. Some Pancha Karmas include –
- Vamana
- Virechana
- Basti
- Udvartana
The above work on fat decoction and applying oils to remove toxins from your body, strengthen your immune system and bring relaxation in the body.
Misconceptions!
Many women are advised to opt for the Panchakarma treatment for PCOS. One of the misconceptions that exists is that, this treatment will ultimately cure PCOS without any change in lifestyle practices. Any treatment will be futile without the necessary changes that are required for a sustained healthy living.
This ancient knowledge about effective herbs will provide a boost to your reversal process. Wouldn’t we all wish for secret weapons in any battle?
Well, we just gave you a whole list of them. Hope you choose well!
