Ayurvedic Treatments For PCOS And Hormonal Imbalance

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that occurs when the ovaries produce excessive androgens, leading to an imbalance in reproductive hormones. This can result in irregular menstrual cycles, missed periods, and unpredictable ovulation. Many individuals with PCOS also develop small follicular cysts on their ovaries due to a lack of regular ovulation.

While modern medicine primarily focuses on managing symptoms through medications, Ayurveda takes a holistic approach by addressing the root cause of the condition. Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore harmony within the body’s natural systems through herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, detoxification therapies, and lifestyle modifications. In this blog, we will explore the best Ayurvedic treatments for PCOS, including dietary recommendations, herbal therapies, lifestyle changes and the best Ayurvedic clinic in Dubai for PCOS.

Ayurvedic View on PCOS

In Ayurveda, most gynecological disorders are classified under Yonivyapad (reproductive system disorders). While PCOS is not mentioned as a particular disease in Ayurveda, its symptoms closely resemble conditions described in ancient text books, such as Bandhyatva Yonivyapada, Nastartava, and Ksheenaartava by Acharya Sushruta, and Pushpaghni Jatharini and Vikuta Jatharini by Acharya Kashyapa.

Acharya Sushruta describes Nastartava as a condition where menstrual flow is not completely absent but is blocked due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha doshas. This obstruction in the reproductive channels (Artava Vaha Srotas) leads to amenorrhea (lack of periods). From an Ayurvedic perspective, PCOS is seen as a disorder caused by hormonal imbalances and obstruction in the reproductive system, mainly influenced by the dominance of Vata and Kapha doshas.

Causes of PCOS in Ayurveda

1. Unhealthy Dietary Habits (Mithya Ahara): Consuming excessive sweets (Ati Madhura Ahara), overly spicy or acidic foods (Ati Katu and Vidahi Ahara), and irregular eating patterns (Aashana, Vishamashana).

2. Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices (Mithya Vihara): Lack of physical activity (Avayama), excessive daytime sleeping (Divaswapna), staying awake late at night (Ratijagrana), suppressing natural urges (Vegdharana), and chronic stress (Atichinta)

3. Genetic and Chromosomal Factors (Bija Dosha): Chromosomal and genetic abnormality comes under Bijadosha. During intrauterine life excessive exposure to androgens have a permanent effect on gene expression resulting in PCOS and later to insulin resistance.

4. Unknown Causes (Daiva Hetu): Some cases of PCOS arise from idiopathic factors, which Ayurveda attributes to divine or unknown causes.

5. Hormonal Imbalances (Pradushtartava): Dysregulation of hormone-producing enzymes in the adrenal glands and ovaries, can lead to excess androgen production, ovarian dysfunction, and menstrual irregularities.

Symptoms

Vamana or medicated emesis helps balance vitiated Kapha dosha, restore hormonal balance, and reduce weight.
Vasti or medicated enema helps balance vitiated Vata dosha, detoxifies the body, and strengthens the reproductive system.
Uttara Basti is highly beneficial in gynecological disorders as it clears the Artavavaha srotas, pacifies vitiated vata, and promotes follicular maturity.
Udwarthanam or dry powder massage helps reduce body weight, improve circulation, and boost metabolism.
Nasya may stimulate olfactory nerves and the limbic system, which in turn stimulates the hypothalamus leading to stimulation of Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) neurons, regularizing GnRH pulsatile secretion, leading to regular and normal menstrual cycle.

Best Ayurvedic Treatment for PCOS

Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS involves balancing the tridoshas, eliminating the accumulated toxins(ama), and cleansing the body. By incorporating Panchakarma therapies, herbs, diet, and lifestyle changes, women with PCOS can balance hormones, improve metabolism, and strengthen reproductive health.

Panchakarma Therapies

Panchakarma therapies for PCOS help balance vitiated doshas, eliminate accumulated toxins, and restore hormonal balance. The recommended treatments include:

Vamana or medicated emesis helps balance vitiated Kapha dosha, restore hormonal balance, and reduce weight.
Vasti or medicated enema helps balance vitiated Vata dosha, detoxifies the body, and strengthens the reproductive system.
Uttara Basti is highly beneficial in gynecological disorders as it clears the Artavavaha srotas, pacifies vitiated vata, and promotes follicular maturity.
Udwarthanam or dry powder massage helps reduce body weight, improve circulation, and boost metabolism.
Nasya may stimulate olfactory nerves and the limbic system, which in turn stimulates the hypothalamus leading to stimulation of Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) neurons, regularizing GnRH pulsatile secretion, leading to regular and normal menstrual cycle.

Herbal Remedies for managing PCOS

Ayurvedic herbs play a crucial role in regulating hormones, improving metabolism, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and enhancing reproductive health. Some of the best Ayurvedic herbs for PCOS include:

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): Helps balance hormones, maintains the ovarian plexus, and brings balance and strength to the menstrual system.
Asoka (Saraca indica): Helps regulate menstrual cycles, strengthen the uterus and reduce excessive bleeding.
Triphala: A combination of three fruits (Amalaki, Bibhitaki, Haritaki), Triphala promotes digestion, improves gut health, and detoxifies the body.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): Helps reduce body weight and lower insulin resistance in the body.

Dietary modifications for PCOS

Ayurvedic diet for PCOS focuses on reducing Kapha accumulation, enhancing digestion, and promoting hormonal balance. Recommended foods include:

Include green leafy vegetables, fiber-rich foods (whole grains, legumes), anti-inflammatory foods (turmeric, ginger), fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats (ghee, nuts, seeds).
Avoid processed food, refined sugar, dairy products, excessive caffeine, junk foods, and overuse of contraceptive pills without a doctor’s prescription.
Stay hydrated by drinking lukewarm water or herbal teas.

Lifestyle recommendations for PCOS

Chronic stress is a major contributor to hormonal imbalance in PCOS. Ayurveda emphasizes:

Practice moderate exercise such as jogging, walking, or cycling for nearly 45 minutes daily.
Avoid smoking and alcohol intake.
Indulge in yoga or breathing exercises to reduce stress and keep the mind calm.
Create a regular daily routine(dinacharya) that includes restful sleep, physical activity, and stress-relieving practices.
Ensure 7-8 hours of restful sleep daily.

Yoga and Pranayama for PCOS Management

Yoga and pranayama (breathing techniques) can help manage symptoms of PCOS by reducing stress, improving metabolism, and restoring hormonal balance.

Recommended Yoga Poses for Hormonal Balance

Malasana (Garland Pose): Strengthens the lower abdominal muscles and enhances blood flow to the pelvic organs.
Setubandasana (Bridge Pose): Reduce stress and anxiety while relieving tension in the back muscles.
Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose): Opens the pelvic area and stimulates reproductive organs.
Suryanamaskar (Sun salutation): It balances the whole endocrine system by directly massaging glands and increasing blood flow to the organ thus regularizing the menstrual cycle.
Halasana (Plough pose): It improves cardiovascular health and menstrual irregularities by reducing belly fat.
Bhujangasana (Cobra pose): This asana exerts pressure over the abdomen and boosts ovarian functions.

Breathing Techniques to Reduce Stress

Kapalbhati pranayama: This breathing technique increases blood circulation to organs, corrects glandular secretion, and combats oxidative stress. It reduces waist and hip circumference and reduces abdominal fat.
Anuloma villoma pranayama (Alternate nostril breathing): Calms the mind and balances the endocrine system.
Bhramari Pranayama: Controlled breathing techniques tone up the nervous system, improve emotional stability, eliminate anxiety, improve self-esteem, and increase insulin sensitivity.

Dr. Shyam’s Ayurveda

PCOS is a complex hormonal disorder that requires a holistic approach for effective management. Ayurveda offers a natural and sustainable solution by addressing the root cause rather than just alleviating symptoms. By incorporating Ayurvedic treatments, herbal remedies, a balanced diet, lifestyle modifications, and yoga, women can regain their hormonal balance and lead a healthier life.

If you are looking for a safe, natural, and effective Ayurvedic treatment in Dubai, Dr. Shyam’s Ayurveda can guide you on your healing journey for PCOS. Embrace Ayurveda for long-term relief and a healthier future!