A LITERARY REVIEW ON THE AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE OF MENOPAUSE (RAJO NIVRUTTI)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/prl.ijayush.v15i06%20(June).2130Keywords:
Rajo Nivrutti; Menopause; Dhatu Kshaya; Shatavari; Ashwagandha; Integrative Gynaecology.Abstract
Menopause represents a universal biological milestone in a woman’s life, characterised by the permanent cessation of ovarian follicular activity and menstruation. In modern medicine, this transition is defined by a decline in oestrogen and progesterone levels, manifesting in a complex of vasomotor, psychological, somatic, and urogenital symptoms collectively referred to as menopausal syndrome. Conventional management primarily relies on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), which is limited by long-term safety concerns, including increased risks of breast cancer, thromboembolism, stroke, and gallbladder disease.
Ayurveda conceptualises menopause as Rajo Nivrutti, viewing it not as a pathological condition but as a natural physiological transition (Swabhavika Vyadhi or Jarajanya Vikara) associated with the ageing process (Jara). This transition marks the shift of the body’s dominant state from Pitta-dominant Madhyamavastha (middle age) to Vata-dominant Jaravastha (senescence), resulting in systemic tissue depletion (Dhatu Kshaya).
This review evaluates and synthesises classical Ayurvedic literature, modern endocrine pathophysiology, and recent clinical evidence regarding the management of Rajo Nivrutti. Data compiled from classical compendia (Sushruta Samhita and Charaka Samhita) and contemporary databases (PubMed and Scopus) reveal that Ayurvedic interventions — specifically Rasayana (rejuvenating) herbs, Panchakarma (bio-purification) therapies, and holistic lifestyle modifications — offer scientifically validated, non-hormonal alternatives. Standardisation of these therapies presents a viable strategy for enhancing quality of life in menopausal women globally.
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