Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovarian Disorder (PCOD), are two of the most prevalent hormonal issues faced by women today. These disorders affect a woman’s capability of childbirth, her metabolism, and her health. While modern medicine provides solutions in the form of hormonal therapies and strong medications, there is a more natural approach to help in PCOS/PCOD management which Ayurveda provides.
Looking at PCOS/PCOD through the lens of Ayurveda
Ayurveda, one of the oldest forms of natural curing techniques, believes that PCOS/PCOD is a condition that develops due to imbalance in the doshas – the body’s three energies (Vata, Pitta and Kapha). In over 70% of the cases, the Kapha dosha tends to aggravate giving rise to insulin-resistant patterns, hormonal imbalance, and toxin buildup, which leads to cysts forming in the ovaries later on. The imbalance in the Vata dosha explains the irregular cycles of menstruation, while the inflammation and heat the body expels is due to Pitta dosha being out of whack.
Signs and symptoms associated with PCOS/PCOD
Irregular Ovulation – Periods are either missed completely or occur later than expected.
Weight Gain – Unaccounted weight gain, especially around the stomach.
Facial Hair Growth (aka Hirsutism) – Increased androgen levels result in body and facial hair growth.
Oily Skin and Acne – Sudden breakouts due to hormonal changes.
Thinning Hair – Women experiencing male pattern baldness.
Infertility – Suffering from both conception and ovulation.
Mood Swings & Fatigue – Symptoms of anxiety, depression and lack of energy.
Ayurvedic Treatment PCOS/PCOD
- The Doshas and Their Balance
Ayurveda focuses on balancing the doshas to alleviate PCOS/PCOD using diet, herbs, yoga, detox, and other methods. Since the Kapha imbalance is the main cause, consulting an ayurvedic physician for PCOD will help in understanding how PCOD can be treated.
- Rasayana Herbs Used In PCOS/PCOD
There are many Ayurvedic herbs that help with the regulation of hormones and PCOS/PCOD management such as:
Ashwagandha – Helps to relax and balance cortisol levels.
Shatavari – is beneficial for reproductive health and increase fertility.
Cinnamon (Dalchini) – Improves insulin sensitivity.
Turmeric (Haldi) – Helps in inflammation and detox of the body.
Triphala – Helps in digesting and cleansing the body.
Aloe Vera – Helps in balancing the hormone and increasing metabolism.
- An Ayurvedic PCOS/PCOD Diet
Ayurveda advises to have a balanced diet as a mean of achieving harmony in hormonal balance:
Avoiding processed and junk Foods: Eating warm, fresh, and properly cooked meals.
Avoiding Dairy & Sugars: Both can increase level of Kapha and Insulin resistance.
Include HMG Fats: Ghee, coconut oils, nuts help in balancing the hormones.
High Fiber Foods: Leafy greens, fresh fruits, whole grains helps control the sugar level in the blood.
Sipping herbal teas like spearmint and ginger may help in lowering androgen levels in the body.
- Lifestyle Changes for Managing PCOS/PCOD
Ayurveda practices encourage a holistic approach to treat PCOS/PCOD using long term lifestyle changes:
Yoga & Pranayama – The reproductive system and women’s health can greatly benefit from Asanas such as Baddha Konasana, Malasana, and Surya Namaskar.
Daily Exercise – Weight can be managed with walking, cycling, and strength training.
Stress Management – Cortisol levels can be managed through meditation and breathing techniques.
Habitual Sleep / Sleep Cycle – Going to bed by 10 PM optimally allows the body to function with proper hormone rhythm, leading to better hormonal function.
Detoxification (Panchakarma) – Ayurvedic detoxification processes can safely remove bodily toxins.
Ayurveda vs Modern Medicine: Which One To Choose
Modern medicine focuses heavily on managing the symptoms. In this instance, patients are usually prescribed birth control pills, insulin sensitizing medication, and ovulation amplifiers. The treatments may offer instant relief, but does not treat the underlying issue. On the contrary, Ayurveda offers natural healing and well-being. One of the best gynaecologists with information on Ayurveda will help patients balance both treatments for an ideal solution.
When to See a Specialist
Irregular cycles, weight gain without a clear cause, and matters of fertility are best assessed with a best doctor for PCOD. With the right diagnosis, they can treat the problem early on, helping most before the development of diabetes, cardiovascular issues, or infertility.
Conclusion
PCOS/PCOD doesn’t need to be seen as a life sentence. With the right Ayurvedic treatment, it is possible to manage or even eradicate the symptoms through lifestyle changes and a proper diet. Ayurveda enables women to naturally manage their health as it treats the condition fundamentally instead of only alleviating the symptoms.
