By: Ayurvedic Therapy
9 November, 2017
PCOS i.e. Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome has emerged as a major disorder which undermines not just the reproductive health of women but also one which truly degrades the quality of life and self-esteem. A metabolic disorder with an imbalance of multiple hormones, PCOS triggers a plethora of signs and symptoms. Stubborn signs and symptoms of PCOS like weight gain in the mid-section of the body, skin pigmentation especially around the neck, irregular periods, and infertility pose a major challenge for successful management.
Being a complex metabolic disorder, PCOS requires a multi-modal management requiring a skilful combination of Ayurvedic medications, dietary modifications which complement each patient’s unique body type (or Prakriti), Yoga, exercise and Ayurvedic Panchakarma. Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapy works on the actual imbalances which lead to PCOS like sluggish metabolism, insulin resistance, massive imbalance of reproductive hormones, imbalanced fat metabolism etc. rather than adopting a short-sighted approach of managing only the symptoms. Ayurvedic Panchakarma help in cleansing, detoxifying and restoring the hormonal and metabolic imbalance that plague women with PCOS.
Four Most Effective Panchakarma therapies which help in the successful management of PCOS are:
1. Vamana:
Vamana is a cleansing and detoxifying Panchakarma which involves systematic and planned removal of toxins by inducing emesis (vomiting). Vamana is typically done during the spring season for best results. Vamana helps in balancing hormones, boosts fertility and helps weight loss. It is crucial for long-term successful management of PCOS. Vamana is an advanced Panchakarma and has specific indications and contraindications. It may not be suited for all PCOS patients, hence careful consideration is required before undergoing Vamana.
2. Virechana:
Virechana is yet another detoxifying Panchakarma which involves removal of toxins by inducing purgation (increased bowel movements). Recommended during the fall season, Virechana is extremely effective in obesity, irregular or heavy periods, hormonal imbalances, skin pigmentation and the multitude of other symptoms triggered by PCOS. Like Vamana, Virechana also has specific indications and contraindications and may not be recommended for all.