AN AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO MANAGE PCOD: A REVIEW ARTICLE

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovarian disease, more appropriately termed polycystic ovary syndrome, is a heterogeneous endocrine-metabolic disorder characterized by variable combinations of ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism and polycystic ovarian morphology. In Ayurveda, no single classical disease can be equated directly with PCOD; however, its clinical features may be interpreted through Artava Kshaya, Anartava, Avarana, Kapha-Meda Dushti, Agnimandya and disturbance of Apana Vata.

Aim and Objectives:  To review the Ayurvedic conceptual basis of PCOD with special reference to Artava Kshaya, Avarana, Agnimandya, Kapha-Meda Dushti and disturbed Apana Vata. To describe a practical Samprapti and Samprapti Ghataka for different PCOD phenotypes. To outline Ayurvedic management principles including Nidana Parivarjana, Deepana-Pachana, Shodhana, Shamana, Pathya and lifestyle measures. To summarize current findings and identify limitations in the available evidence. Materials and Methods: A structured narrative review was undertaken using major Ayurvedic classical texts, standard textbooks and peer-reviewed literature on PCOS. Contemporary clinical guidelines, reviews, systematic reviews and selected Ayurvedic clinical studies were considered. The concepts were synthesized by correlating clinical phenotype with relevant Ayurvedic Samprapti Ghataka.

Results & Discussion: Ayurvedic management is best framed as phenotype-based and Samprapti-based care rather than a fixed one-formula approach. It may complement evidence-based gynecological and metabolic evaluation when therapies are selected safely and monitored appropriately. Conclusion: An Ayurvedic approach to PCOD emphasizes correction of causative factors, metabolism, channel obstruction, menstrual function and lifestyle. Stronger, standardized clinical trials are required before specific Ayurvedic interventions can be considered established PCOS treatments.