Polycystic Ovarian Disease, or PCOD, is one of the prevalent medical conditions in childbearing women. The World Health Organization estimated that nearly 6-13% of women of reproductive age suffer from PCOD in the world. This report further highlighted the fact that about 70% of the women are likely to remain undiagnosed, which further causes pregnancy-related complications. Irregular periods, weight gain, acne, hirsutism (excess growth of hair on the face), and infertility problems are some of the issues that women with PCOD experience. Even with modern medicine and the prescription of drugs like hormone therapy and birth control pills, the underlying condition is not addressed.

Ayurveda offers a holistic and eco-friendly solution for treating PCOD. Rather than merely curing the symptoms, Ayurvedic management of PCOD works on balancing hormones, enhancing digestion, and detoxifying the body to restore overall health. In this blog, we will talk about the way Ayurveda cures PCOD, the best Ayurvedic medicine for PCOD, and how lifestyle changes can assist in hormonal balance naturally.

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD), its Causes and Symptoms

PCOD is a hormonal condition that influences millions of women worldwide. PCOD results from the discharge of excess androgens (male sex hormones) from the ovaries, creating a mismatch between progesterone and estrogen. This disrupts ovulation, resulting in abnormal menstruation, cysts of the ovary, and sterility.

Causes of PCOD

PCOD may result from environmental, lifestyle, and genetic factors. The causes are:

• Hormonal Imbalance: High androgen levels trigger cysts and disturbed ovulation.
• Insulin Resistance: Hyperinsulin stimulates androgen release, leading to obesity and abnormal menstruation.
• Inflammation: Long-standing inflammation may provoke excess androgen production, further worsening PCOD symptoms.
• Diet: A diet that is high in processed food, refined carbohydrates, and excess intake of milk products leads to hormonal imbalance.
• Physical Inactivity: Physical inactivity leads to obesity and insulin resistance, worsening PCOD.
• Stress and Poor Sleep: Increased cortisol levels disrupt hormonal balance and aggravate PCOD symptoms.

Symptoms of PCOD

PCOD manifests differently in different women, and all women are not affected in the same way. Some symptoms are:

• Irregular Periods: Delayed or missed periods because of anovulation.
• Weight Gain: Particularly around the abdominal area, which is hard to lose.
• Acne and Oily Skin: Due to excessive amounts of androgens.
• Hirsutism: Excessive growth of body and facial hair.
• Hair Loss: Baldness of scalp hair owing to excess levels of testosterone.
• Fertility Problems: Inability to conceive owing to irregular ovulation.

All these symptoms and causes need to be understood for proper management, and Ayurveda has a holistic, natural way of treating PCOD.

Role of Ayurveda in PCOD Management

Ayurveda believes that Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a disease caused by the imbalance of the three doshas, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, which regulate different functions of the body. Ayurvedic treatment of PCOD does not only treat the symptoms but also tries to uproot the cause by giving medicinal herbs, dietary modifications, detoxifying therapy, and lifestyle changes.

How Ayurveda Helps Manage PCOD

• Balancing Hormones the Natural Way: Ayurvedic herbal treatments and formulas balance estrogen, progesterone, and insulin levels, causing fewer painful periods and less PCOD.
• Detoxification: PCOD has been linked with the buildup of toxins in the body. Ayurveda recommends practices like Panchakarma for purifying the body and regularizing hormones.
• Improving Metabolism and Digestion: Decreased digestive capacity leads to obesity, sluggish metabolism, and insulin resistance, a characteristic of PCOD. Ayurveda relies on the restoration of Agni by utilizing spices, herbs, and dietary patterns.
• Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Stress is a foremost cause of endocrine imbalance. The range of Ayurvedic processes, such as meditation, pranayama, and adaptogenic herbal medicine, lessens tension and cortisol, hence promoting reproductive well-being.
• Regulating Menstrual Cycles: Ayurveda regularizes menstrual cycles by promoting ovulation, preventing the formation of cysts, and maintaining a normal uterine lining.

Taking a holistic route, Ayurveda addresses PCOD symptoms in the long term rather than treating them in the short term.

Best Ayurvedic Herbs for PCOD

Ayurveda utilizes various medicinal herbs to balance hormones, control menstruation, and increase fertility. Provided below are some of the best Ayurvedic medicines for PCOD that can treat the body naturally:

• Ashoka

Ashoka is a well-known Ayurvedic herb for female reproductive health. It helps regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce excess bleeding, and maintain a healthy endometrium. It is also beneficial in managing PCOD symptoms like mood swings, abdominal cramps, and hormonal imbalances. Ashoka strengthens the uterus, supports ovarian function, and promotes overall reproductive wellness.

• Lodhra

Lodhra is a powerful Ayurvedic herb, popularly known for its benefits in treating gynecological disorders, especially PCOD. It helps to regulate ovarian function, balance hormones, and reduce excessive androgen levels, which are often elevated in PCOD. Lodhra also improves skin health by reducing acne and excessive facial hair growth caused by hormonal imbalances. In addition, it supports a regular menstrual cycle and reduces heavy or irregular bleeding.

• Ulatkambal

Ulatkambal is a valuable herb in Ayurveda for addressing irregular menstrual cycles and hormonal imbalances associated with PCOD. It helps regulate ovulation, reduce insulin resistance, and support a healthy reproductive system. This herb is particularly beneficial in cases of amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) and dysmenorrhea (painful periods). Additionally, Ulatkambal is known to improve uterine health and promote overall hormonal balance.

• Varuna

Varuna is an excellent detoxifying herb that plays a crucial role in eliminating toxins from the body and balancing hormones. It supports liver function, which is essential for regulating estrogen levels and preventing hormonal imbalances linked to PCOD. Varuna also helps in reducing water retention, managing ovarian cysts, and improving urinary health. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial in reducing pelvic pain and discomfort associated with PCOD.

• Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus)

The "Queen of Herbs" in the case of women's health, Shatavari, is very effective in women who suffer from PCOD. It balances ovulation, stabilizes estrogen and progesterone levels, and also promotes fertility. It also soothes the female reproductive system, promotes cervical mucus, and stabilizes a normal menstrual cycle. Shatavari is a miracle for women with painful or irregular menstruation.

You can try Life Aveda's Shatavari Capsules for hormonal balance and reproductive health.

• Triphala (Amla, Bibhitaki, Haritaki)

Triphala is an effective Ayurvedic cleanser that cleanses the body of toxins and strengthens digestion. It normalized insulin resistance, which is typically linked with weight gain and metabolic problems in PCOD. It strengthens digestion, prevents constipation, and helps in nutrient absorption, which is necessary for hormone balance and menstrual cycles.

You can try Life Aveda's Triphala Capsules for cleansing and improved digestion.

• Kachnar

Kachnar is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for its benefits in treating hormonal disorders and detoxifying the lymphatic system. It is particularly effective in managing PCOD symptoms by reducing ovarian cysts, supporting thyroid function, and enhancing metabolism. Kachnar also helps in weight management, which is crucial for women with PCOD, as obesity can worsen symptoms. Its anti-inflammatory and cleansing properties promote overall reproductive health.

• Shiv Lingi

Shivlingi is a powerful fertility-enhancing herb used in Ayurveda to support reproductive health. It helps regulate ovulation, improve egg quality, and balance hormonal fluctuations in women with PCOD. Shivlingi is especially effective when combined with other Ayurvedic herbs like Putrajivak for boosting fertility and enhancing the chances of conception. It also strengthens the uterus and promotes a healthy menstrual cycle.

These Ayurvedic herbs provide natural and holistic solutions for managing PCOD symptoms, promoting hormonal balance, and supporting reproductive health. Regular use, along with a balanced diet and lifestyle, can help women with PCOD lead healthier lives.

Ayurvedic Diet for PCOD Healing

Taking a proper diet is an essential part of Ayurvedic treatment for PCOD. Eating the correct foods stabilizes insulin, reduces inflammation, and harmonizes hormones naturally.

Foods to Include:

• Raw vegetables and fruits (leafy greens, berries, carrots)
• Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, millet)
• Healthy fats (ghee, coconut oil, nuts, and seeds)
• Herbs and spices (turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, ginger)
• Herbal teas (Tulsi, spearmint, and licorice tea)

Foods to Avoid:

• Processed and junk foods
• Too much dairy and refined sugar
• Caffeine and alcohol
• Red meat and fried foods

Following a Kapha-pacifying diet and eating warm, home-cooked meals can substantially help alleviate PCOD symptoms.

Lifestyle and Yoga for PCOD

In Ayurveda, an everyday routine is key to maintaining hormonal well-being.

Recommended Lifestyle Changes:

• Rise early and meditate or practice deep breathing.
• Regular exercise (walking, swimming, yoga).
• Sleep in moderation (7-8 hours) to nourish hormonal equilibrium.
• Use proper hydration and include herbal teas as part of your practice.

Recommended Yoga Asanas for PCOD:

• Butterfly pose helps to stimulate ovaries and fertility.
• Cobra pose elevates blood supply to pelvic organs.
• Sun salutation regulates hormones and increases metabolism.
• Alternate nostril breathing relaxes the mind and gets the reproductive system ready.
• Daily yoga and meditation reduce stress-related hormonal changes, which is one of the biggest causes of PCOD.

Life Aveda’s holistic approach to PCOD management

Life Aveda presents a naturalistic solution to the treatment of PCOD by the use of herbal remedies, dietary changes, and lifestyle changes. Unlike contemporary treatments that only conceal the symptoms, Life Aveda products work deeper, eliminating the cause of PCOD for long-lasting relief and wellness.

• Life Aveda’s PCOS/PCOD Care Pack is designed to feed the female reproductive system with four extremely effective herbal preparations:
• Premium Ova Cyst comprises Ashoka, Ulatkambal, Shiv Lingi, and Varuna, which help to balance hormones, regulate menstruation, and dissolve ovarian cysts.
• Packed with pure extracts of Lodhra, Ashoka, Kachnar, Nagkesar, Shatavari, Triphala, and Ashwagandha, Premium Female Vitality assists in reproductive wellness by balancing hormones and endocrine function.
• Life Aveda’s Elixir Potion offers the benefits of potent herbs like dashmool, kuth, aloe vera, amla, arjun chaal, etc. It is designed to boost metabolism, control weight, and maintain ovulation.
• Kanchnaar Guggul cleanses the body, kills cysts, and balances overall hormone levels.

Besides the Ayurvedic medicine for PCOD, Life Aveda also suggests an Ayurvedic diet, yoga, and a healthy lifestyle for optimal results.

Conclusion

Living with PCOD is difficult, but the right Ayurvedic treatment can lead you to your recovery. Employing strong herbal medications, healthy food, and a stress-free lifestyle, you can regain the normal hormonal level of your body and maintain reproductive health.

Start your healing journey now with Life Aveda's PCOS/PCOD Care Pack and experience the magic of Ayurveda! Order now and take the first step towards a healthier, better-balanced life. Visit Life Aveda’s online store for natural PCOD treatments!