Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — Written by Scott Frothingham
September 10, 2020
Ayurvedic medicine, or Ayurveda, is a holistic (whole body) healing system developed in India more than 3,000 years ago. One of the world’s oldest holistic practices, it’s based on the concept that wellness and health are achieved through a balance between your mind, body, and spirit.
After being diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) some women may consider Ayurveda. Keep reading to learn more about Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS and what the research says about its effectiveness.
What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It’s often characterized by excess androgen (male hormone levels) and menstrual periods that are either infrequent or longer than is typical.
With PCOS, your ovaries may develop follicles, which are small collections of fluid, and they may fail to regularly release eggs.
What is the Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS?
Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS usually includes a combination of herbs, therapies, and lifestyle changes, such as diet.
Ayurvedic use of herbs for PCOS
Although Ayurvedic treatment of PCOS may vary among practitioners, it often involves the use of specific herbs, primarily to maintain a balance of hormones. These include:
- Ashwagandha. Ashwagandha is an herb that’s also called Indian ginseng or winter cherry. It can help balance cortisol levels to improve stress and PCOS symptoms, according to a 2016 study of 52 people under chronic stress.
- Cinnamon. Cinnamon, harvested from the bark of the cinnamon tree, is more than just a spice used in baked goods: According to a small 2007 study, it can positively affect insulin resistance parameters in PCOS. A 2014 study of 45 women indicated that cinnamon may play a role in regulating menstrual cycles for women with PCOS.
- Turmeric. Turmeric gets its yellow color from its active ingredient, curcumin. In a 2017 study on PCOS-induced rats, curcumin showed promise as an anti-inflammatory agent and as a way to decrease insulin resistance.
Ayurvedic therapies for PCOS
A 2012 study indicated that a 12-week yoga program helped reduce anxiety symptoms in adolescent girls with PCOS.
An Ayurvedic practitioner may recommend yoga poses, also called asanas, such as:
- Reclining Butterfly Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana)
- Bharadvaja’s Twist (Bharadvajasana)
- Mill Churning Pose (Chakki Chalanasana)
- Corpse Pose (Shavasana)
Your practitioner may also recommend meditation and breathing exercises, known as pranayamas, to help relieve stress.
Ayurvedic diet for PCOS
The dietary practices an Ayurvedic practitioner recommends for PCOS will often be similar to what your primary care doctor might suggest, including:
- eating fewer saturated fats (like red meat and deep fried foods)
- reducing your salt intake
- eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- avoiding refined sugar, sugary foods, and artificial sweeteners
