Overview
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders in women, affecting an estimated 5 to 10 percent of all women of reproductive age. PCOS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including irregular periods, infertility, obesity, acne, and excessive hair growth. While there is no cure for PCOS, it can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes.
Ayurveda is one such treatment option that may be able to help improve fertility and ease other PCOS symptoms. Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that encompasses mind-body-spirit healing. Ayurveda can help to restore balance and improve the symptoms of PCOS. Ayurvedic treatments often focus on detoxification and balancing the doshas, or body energies.
In this post, we’ll take a look at what PCOS is, the symptoms associated with it, and Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS.
What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?
PCOS affects women who are of childbearing age and is a hormonal disorder. It is characterized by the presence of polycystic ovaries, which are small, sac-like structures that contain fluid and develop around the eggs in the ovaries.
PCOS often leads to an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, as well as an increase in the level of male hormones (androgens) in the body. This hormone imbalance can interfere with ovulation and cause fertility problems.
PCOS is also associated with insulin resistance, which is when the body does not respond properly to insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels. PCOS can also lead to obesity, as well as other health problems such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
The symptoms of PCOS
They vary from woman to woman. Some women may have very mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms. The most common symptoms of PCOS include:
Infertility
In women, PCOS is one of the leading causes of fertility problems. Approximately 70 percent of women with PCOS have difficulty becoming pregnant.
Irregular periods
It is common for women with PCOS to have irregular periods or no periods at all. This is because PCOS can interfere with ovulation, which is necessary for menstruation to occur.
Obesity
Obesity is common in women with PCOS, affecting up to 80 percent of women with the condition. Obesity can worsen the symptoms of PCOS and make it more challenging to treat.
Excessive hair growth
It is a hormone that is found in both males and females is called androgen. However, women with PCOS often have higher levels of androgens, which can lead to excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and back. This condition is known as hirsutism.
Acne
Androgen levels can also cause acne breakouts on the face, chest, and back.
Read Also – 10 Tips For Getting Pregnant Faster
Ayurvedic Treatment for PCOS
An Indian system of holistic medicine, Ayurveda is based on the principles of nature. It comprises a range of mind-body-spirit healing modalities, including diet, lifestyle changes, yoga, meditation, and herbal remedies. Ayurveda can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including PCOS.
Vata, pitta, and Kapha are the three main doshas in Ayurveda. Most people have a predominant dosha, but everyone has all three doshas in their body. Imbalance of the doshas can lead to tolerized by the presence of small, sac-like structures (cysts) that contain fluid and develop around the eggs in the ovaries. These cysts can interfere with ovulation and cause fertility problems.
There is no cure for PCOS, but Ayurveda can help to improve the symptoms and restore balance to the body. Ayurvedic treatments often focus on detoxification and balancing the doshas, or body energies.
Diet
A healthy diet is an important part of any treatment plan for PCOS. Ayurvedic medicine recommends avoiding processed foods, refined sugars, and dairy products. Instead, focus on eating fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Lifestyle changes
Stress can worsen the symptoms of PCOS, so it’s important to find ways to manage stress effectively. Ayurveda recommends regular exercise, yoga, and meditation as effective stress-busters.
Herbal remedies
There are a number of herbs that can be used to treat PCOS. Ashoka is an herb that helps to regulate hormone levels, while Shatavari is an herb that helps to boost fertility. Speak to an Ayurvedic practitioner about which herbs would be most suitable for you.
Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that can be used to treat the whole person, rather than just the symptoms of the disease.
Which Ayurvedic ingredients are best in PCOS?
There are a few different Ayurvedic ingredients that may help PCOS:
1. Shatavari: This is Indian asparagus that is known to help with fertility and boost hormone levels.
2. Ashoka: This herb helps to reduce inflammation and balances hormone levels.
3. Aloe vera: This plant has soothing properties which can help to calm the skin and reduce acne breakouts.
4. Turmeric: This spice is anti-inflammatory and helps to improve insulin sensitivity.
5. Bitter gourd: This vegetable helps to regulate blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.
Always speak to an Ayurvedic practitioner before taking any herbs or supplements, as they may interact with other medications you are taking.