Endometriosis Natural Ayurveda Treatment and Management

 

What is Endometriosis?

Every month, ovaries produce hormones that cause swelling and thickening of the uterus's endometrium (mucus cell linings). The uterus sheds these membranous mucous cells and menstrual blood through the vagina during menstruation. When endometrium grows outside of the uterus, it results in Endometriosis.

The presence of endometrium (uterine mucous membrane) outside the lining of the uterus is known as Endometriosis. It causes painful periods and premenstrual pain.

 

Understanding Endometriosis from Ayurevda Prospective

 

According to Ayurveda, the Bija Dosha or Genetic Defects in the ovum caused due to vitiation of Vata Dosha in the embryonic stage coupled with an unhealthy diet and lifestyle in the present life, leading to compromised immunity. There is the retrograde flow of menstruation because of the vitiated Apana and Vyana Vata mainly, which are the two subtypes of Vata Dosha, the normal functions of which are regulating the flow of menses in the menstrual channels and expelling timely menstrual fluid. However, since they are aggravated, they cause an imbalance in menstruation and lead to lymphatic and vascular spread of endometrial tissues. Consequently, with subsequent menstrual cycles, there is an enlargement of the ectopic implants of the endometrium. In association with Kapha Dosha, adhesions develop. Thus, Vata and Kapha Doshas are involved in the pathogenesis of Endometriosis; hence Ayurvedic treatment approach is to bring equilibrium of Vata and Kapha Doshas mainly.

 

Although there is no direct mention of modern-day diseases like Endometriosis in Ayurveda texts, the disorders can be correlated with causative factors and pathogenesis. 'Yoni Vyapat' explained in Ayurveda texts explains most female reproductive problems. Many types of 'Yoni Vyapat' are mentioned in Ayurveda; however, Endometriosis can be correlated with 'Vataja Yoni Vyapat .' According to Ayurveda, menstrual fluid is the Upadhatu (Sub-tissue) of Rasa Dhatu or Lymphatic fluid, which is the first formed tissue from the nutrient portion of food. The chief function of Vata Dosha, mainly the sub-type of Vata, namely, Vyana Vata, is the circulation of nutrients. After digestion of food, Vyana Vata carries the nutrient portion of food to the respective tissues for nourishing them. Apana Vata, another sub-type of Vata Dosha located in the pelvis, is responsible for the timely elimination of menstrual fluid from the body. But as Vata Dosha is aggravated in Endometriosis, there is partial reverse flow in the channels carrying menstrual fluid resulting in ectopic placement, that is, Endometriosis.

 

Menstrual Cycle and Doshas

 

The normal functioning of all the Doshas regulates menstruation. An imbalance in any Dosha affects the menstrual cycle.

The increase of Vata Dosha causes dryness in the uterus which inhibits the ascent of sperm, functional defects in the egg, and difficulty with implantation,, causing infertility. Aggravated Vata Dosha is also responsible for painful menstruation.

Pitta Dosha vitiation causes inflammation and burning pain, increased menstrual bleeding, and hormonal imbalances.

Aggravated Kapha Dosha is responsible for the formation of cysts, irregular bleeding, and irregular cycles.

For proper conception, the following four factors and the normal functioning of Vata Dosha are important.

1. Ritu (Fertile period / Ovulatory period),
2. Kshetra (Uterus),
3. Ambu (Nutritional fluids),
4. Bija (Sperm & Ovum)

 

Endometriosis generally hasy a vitiation of the Uterus and Ovum (Kshetra and Bija Dushti,, which impairsr fertility.

 

Causative Factors of Endometriosis

 

The causative factors are multifactorial; more important ones are explained below.

1. Bija Dosha (Genetic Defects) – Vata Dosha controls cellular division and differentiation at the stage of embryonic development. This determines the location of fetal development. Also, at this stage, the chief function of Vata Dosha is the placement and development of all organ structures and the transportation of nutrients at the cellular level. Hence, if any anomaly occurs at this stage, then 'Yoni Vypat' will likely develop in the Woman after birth. Thus, we can understand how genetic defect is important in causing Endometriosis.
2. Aharaja (Dietetic Causes) – Excessive intake of light to digest food, dry food items, spicy, astringent, and bitter food items; overuse of pulses, salads, cold food, and drinks; keeping regular fasts or long gaps between meals; eating less quantity of food, irregular meals increase Vata Dosha leading to Endometriosis.
3. Viharaja (Lifestyle factors) – Vata aggravating factors like excess physical exercise, staying awake late at night, traveling long distances frequently, riding on animals on uneven roads, carrying heavy weights, physical stress, emotional stress, suppression of the natural urges, especially the urge to urinate and defaecate; overindulgence in sexual intercourse, having coitus in abnormal positions, use of foreign body for sex, weak Woman having coitus with a man having big sized penis.
4. Hormonal Imbalance, Menstrual irregularities, Abhgataja (Injury to the genital parts), Abnormalities in Bija (Ovum), and Artavavaha Srotas (Menstrual channels) – Hormonal imbalance will nourish the adhesions and lead to their growth. Abnormalities in the ovum or injury to the genital parts will impair the nourishment and quality of the reproductive tissue.

 

Because of the above causative factors, Vata Dosha gets aggravated and vitiates the reproductive tissue. This impaired reproductive tissue gets implanted at various sites by the upwards movement of Vata Dosha. Vitiated Vata Dosha also affects the proper formation of reproductive tissue, which results in immunodeficiency. This helps in the growth of ectopic implants, which respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle and get enlarged. There will be the formation of new lesions and the development of adhesions, causing the progression of the disease in subsequent menstrual cycles. There is the formation of cysts in the ovary because of the association of increased Kapha Dosha with Vata Dosha. There is distortion in the anatomy of pelvic organs because of the extensive adhesions. The defective reproductive tissue, hormonal imbalance, ovulation problems, and distorted anatomy result in infertility. As Vata Dosha dominates the stage of menstruation, there is increased pain during menses. The vitiated Vata Dosha gets localized at the sites of vitiation of the channels caused by the vitiation at the embryonic stage and produces symptoms of Endometriosis.

 

As this is a disorder caused due to aggravated Vata Dosha, women having Vata Prakriti (Constitution) are more prone to be affected by Endometriosis, especially when they indulge in Vata aggravating factors. Endometriosis manifests mostly during reproductive age. It is associated with pain and infertility mostly.

 

Symptoms of Endometriosis

 

Pain is a major symptom caused by Endometriosis. The various other signs of Endometriosis explained in Ayurveda textbooks are as below.

1. Udavarta Yoni Vyapad: Dysmenorrhoea, which is pain during or before the menstrual cycle
2. Paripluta Yoni Vyapad: Dyspareunia, which is pain during intercourse
3. Vatala Yoni Vypad / Vataja Shula: Chronic Pelvic Pain is severe non-menstrual or non-cyclical pain lasting for many months and interfering with or affecting daily life activities.
4. Antarmukhi Yoni Vyapad: Adhesions or distorted uterine anatomy
5. Rakta Yoni: Menorrhagia, that is heavy menstrual bleeding
6. Vandhyatva: Infertility or Ovulation disorder

 

Acharya Charaka has mentioned the following symptoms of Endometriosis –

Toda: Pricking pain

Vedana: Different types of pain

Stabdha: Stiffness

Pipeelika Sharira Abhisarana: Feeling like ants crawling on the body

Karkasata: Roughness

Suptata: Numbness

Ayasa: Fatigue / Lethargy

Yoni Bhramsha: Utero-Vaginal prolapse

Vankshana – Parshva Shula: Pain in the groin and flanks

Gulma: Mass in the abdomen

 

Features of Menstrual Blood

As Vata Dosha is vitiated in Endometriosis, menstrual blood will be vitiated and will have the following features -

Artava Dushti: Irregular cycles and bleeding

Ruk: Painful

Phenila: Frothy

Tanu: Thin

Ruksha: Dry

Aruna and Krishna Varna: Reddish or Blackish menstrual blood

Acharya Chakrapani has noted that bleeding during the intermenstrual cycle also occurs.

According to the other textbooks, namely, Susrutha Samhita, Bhava Prakasha, Madhava Nidana, and Yoga Ratnakara, due to decreased estrogen, the Woman affected with Endometriosis experiences the following symptoms – Roughness, Stiffness, Numbness, and Pricking Pain in the vagina.

 

According to Vagbhata, there is vaginal flatulence, lax perineum, and vaginal stretching, especially due to estrogen deficiency in Endometriosis. The menstrual blood is blackish – pinkish, and there is scanty flow. Other disorders caused due to increased Vata Dosha, severe pain in the groin and flanks also occur.

 

Impact of Endometriosis on the daily life of the Woman

 

Although Endometriosis is a disorder of the reproductive system, it greatly affects one's daily routine and significantly impacts women's lives. It hurts physical health, psychological health, sexual life, social life, and work. Pain which occurs due to increased Vata Dosha, limits normal physical activities like walking and exercise. Vata is the controller of the nervous system; as Vata Dosha is aggravated in the body, it will also be disturbed in the mind. In other words, we can understand that hormonal imbalance exists in Endometriosis, which means the functions of the the pituitary gland located in the brain and adrenal glands located on top of the kidneys are affected. This means stress, sexual positions, and chemical balance in the body are concerned because these are the functions of the pituitary and adrenal glands. Hence there is a negative effect on self-esteem, self-confidence, feeling of anger, depression, mood swings, and frustration. Fear of painful intercourse or bleeding and failure to have orgasm reduces the frequency of sex, leading to frustration and a strained relationship with their partner. Unmarried women with Endometriosis have anxiety about initiating a new connection. Social activity or outings are also reduced due to fear of exaggeration of symptoms of Endometriosis like pain, bleeding, and fatigue on the strain. There is difficulty in focusing and reduced productivity. Relationships with others are affected due to anger, stress, and mood swings caused by Endometriosis. Thus, this disease affects different aspects of one's life, and hence timely treatment is important.

 

Ayurveda Treatment Modalities for Endometriosis or Vataj Yoni-Vyapad

 

Endometriosis is a distressing disorder that affects the life of a woman, a proper and effective treatment approach is needed. Ayurveda may offer a non-invasive yet effective treatment and management approach, which includes the following –

 

1. Vata Anulomana: Downward Movement of Vata Dosha
2. Lekhana: Scraping our Adhesions and excess Kapha Dosha
3. Srotoshodhana: Clearing the channels
4. Agni Dipana and Ama Pachana: Restoring the normal function of Agni (Digestive & Metabolic Fire), Removal of Ama (Endotoxins)
5. Shodhana: Panchakarma purification procedures
6. Shaman: Ayurveda herbs & formulations for pacifying the vitiated Doshas
7. Ahara: Dietary modifications
8. Vihara: Lifestyle suggestions
9. Artava Dhatu: Improving the quality of reproductive tissue
10. Rasayana: Rejuvenation

 

Agni Dipana – Ama Pachana: Endotoxins are caused due to improper functioning of digestive and metabolic fire, leading to many diseases, including Endometriosis. Thus, eliminating endotoxins and regulating the normal functioning of digestive and metabolic fire through the intake of digestive and carminative herbs like Trikatu, Hingwashtak churn, Chitrakadi vati, etc., and eating meals at the proper time.

 

 

Vata Anulomana: As Endometriosis is primarily a disorder caused due to aggravated Vata Dosha, Vata balancing herbs, therapies, diet, and lifestyle are recommended. Aggravated Apana Vata should be directed to move in the normal downward direction to help relieve the symptoms of Endometriosis.

 

Shodhana: Panchakarma nourishes the uterus, facilitates proper coitus, enhances the entry of sperm into the uterus, and increases the receptivity of the genital tract. Also, detoxification helps remove endotoxins, thereby removing obstruction in circulatory channels, increasing cellular nutrition and circulation, thereby improving the quality of the reproductive tissue. Snehana (Oleation), Swedana (Fomentation), Virechana (Purgation), Vamana (Emesis), and Basti (Therapeutic enema) are suggested to improve the functions of the uterus and restore normalcy.

 

Abhyantara Snehana: Internal oleation using suitable medicated ghee helps lubricate the body, thus counteracting the Vata Dosha, which is aggravated in Endometriosis. Medicated ghee is like a vehicle with the special property of carrying the qualities of herbs into the targeted tissue (here, the targeted tissue is reproductive tissue), making the herbal properties available at its utilization. Also, this medicated ghee will be absorbed at the cellular level and mixed with the endotoxins enabling them to be removed from the body through the subsequent procedures – Swedana and Virechana or Vamana decided according to one's Prakriti, health status, and Doshas vitiated.

 

Abhyanga: Massage rejuvenates the body, improves the quality of the uterine lining, strengthens the muscles and ligaments of the uterus, improves sexual arousal, balances the Doshas, decreases the mechanical blockages, reduces pelvic pain, and improves blood flow to the reproductive area.

 

Swedana: Fomentation is generally done following a therapeutic massage—the warmth of the swedana balances the Vata Dosha. Also, Sweden helps to relieve any obstruction in the channels, thereby facilitating the downward movement of Vata Dosha and regulating the menstrual flow.

 

Vamana: Therapeutic Emesis is done to balance the Kapha Dosha and normalize all Doshas' functioning.

 

Virechana: Purgation is best to remove endotoxins, thereby rekindling the digestive and metabolic fire, thus improving the formation of tissues and tissue quality.

 

Basti: Medicated enema is the best to balance Vata Dosha. Basti has a quick local action in the reproductive system, which is beneficial in relieving symptoms like pain, dryness, and irregularity in the menstrual cycle and helping one conceive.

 

Shirodhara: Since stress, mood swings, and anxiety are inevitable in Endometriosis, Shirodhara effectively brings calmness to the mind.

 

Nasya: Nasal medication effectively improves the brain's functions, thereby indirectly positively affecting hormonal functions, thus helping in Endometriosis.

 

Sthanika Chikitsa (Local Therapies)

 

Local therapies have a synergetic effect with oral treatments and Panchakarma. The following local therapies are effective in Endometriosis and other gynecological problems.

1. Yoni Prakshalana (Vaginal Douche)
2. Yoni Pichu (Vaginal Tampon)
3. Yoni Dhupana (Vaginal Fumigation)
4. Uttarabasti (Intravaginal instillation)

 

Yoni Prakshalana

Yoni means vagina, and Prakshalana means Washing. In this therapy, the vaginal area is cleansed using lukewarm medicated liquids. Herbs like Tuvaraka, Palasha, Triphala, Nimba, and Dhataki are generally used for this purpose. These herbs have astringent and bitter tastes, three Dosha balancing, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This therapy may be beneficial in menstrual disorders. It may strengthen vaginal muscles and helps relieve vaginal inflammation, fungal infection, and localized pain.

 

Yoni Pichu

Pichu can be broadly co-related to a Tampon. In this procedure, a sterile cotton swab dipped in lukewarm Ayurveda medicated oil is placed inside the vagina and retained for a specific time for exhibiting local action. Commonly used medicated oils are the Mushaka tail, Udumbara tail, Dhatakyadi tail, and Guduchyadi tail. The herbs used for this therapy have Vata balancing, pain-relieving, and lubricating properties. Yoni Pichu may be beneficial in the management of all gynecological problems. It may help to balance all three Doshas, strengthens the vaginal muscles and ligaments, may help to improve hygiene, heal cervical erosion, prevent recurrent miscarriages, may help relieve fungal infection and vulvovaginitis, subsides vaginal roughness, dryness, and pain, and may help in genital prolapse.

 

Yoni Dhupana

Dhupana means fumigation or steaming. It is done using herbs like Neem, Guggulu, etc. The gentle warmth and moisture of the fumigation increase localized circulation, carry the effect of the herbs, and permeates the vaginal mucosa, thus increasing absorption into the cell membrane. The herbs used for this therapy generally have antimicrobial and analgesic effects. This therapy may be beneficial in chronic vaginal infections. It may help to reduce dryness, pain, increased menstrual bleeding, and exhaustion or fatigue during menstruation. It helps enhance the healing effect and improves the strength of the uterus, making it supportive of fertility.

 

Uttara Basti

In this procedure, lukewarm Ayurvedic herbal oil is instilled into the uterine cavity per vagina through the cervix. Uttara Basti is generally effective when done following a Yoga Basti course (8-day Basti course). It is done during the ovulatory or late proliferative period as the orifices are open during this period, and reproductive organs are free from any adhesions, thus enabling better absorption of the medicated oil. Uttara Basti is best to balance Vata Dosha and may benefit in dysmenorrhoea, estrogen deficiency, abnormal uterine bleeding, menstrual disturbances, secondary amenorrhoea, irregular menstruation, uterovaginal prolapse, pain in vagina, habitual abortion, infertility or sub-fertility especially those due to ovulatory factors, hyperplasia or hypoplasia of the endometrium, pain in sacrum, dysfunctional uterine bleeding and retention of urine. Uttara Basti has a uterine cleansing action. It also imparts strength and lubrication to the uterus. The herbal oils used in this therapy are absorbed through the uterovaginal mucosa and transported through circulation, thus bringing desirable effects. Commonly used oils/ghee are Phala ghrita, Shatavari ghrita, Dashmool oil, and Guduchyadi oil, processed with strength-promoting herbs.

 

 

Yogasana for Endometriosis: Some Yogasana, like Paschimottasana, Supta Baddha Konasana, Sarvangasana, and Bhramari Pranayama, relieve stress and anxiety. They strengthen the uterus and ovaries, help relieve menstrual pain, and bring calmness to the mind, enhancing cure.

 

Herbs and Formulations:

Ayurveda herbs and formulations help in synergistic hormone balance, ovulation problems, premature ovarian failure, and adhesions, prevent recurrent miscarriage, and regulate cervical mucosa. Some herbs that have been traditionally used in Ayurveda with their positive effects on the various symptoms of Endometriosis are explained below.

• Nirgundi may help boost fertility, regulate the menstrual cycle, and helps in heavy bleeding.
• Lavang is a blood purifier and fertility booster.
• Shilajit helps to purify the reproductive system.
• Haridra and Manjishta exhibit supportive action on the uterus.
• Brahmi helps to calm the mind.
• Shatavari is a nourishing tonic for the uterus.
• Punarnava and Guggulu help to remove any obstruction in the passages.
• Phala ghrita treats functional problems related to female infertility.
• Shatapushpa, Shatavari, and Lasuna (Garlic) may have rejuvenation benefits in Endometriosis.

 

Recommended herbs and formulations are mentioned below.

Herbs - Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Manjishta (Rubia cordifolia), Haridra (Curcuma longa), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), Brihati (Solanum indicum), Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum), Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata), Bhringaraj (Eclipta prostrata), Pippali (Piper longum), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Varuna (Crateva religiosa), Latakaranj (Caesalpinia crista), Dashmool (Root of 10 herbs), Vidarikand (Pueraria tuberosa), Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), Guggulu (Commiphora mukul), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shilajit (Asphaltum punja-bianum), Kumari (Aloe vera), Jivanti (Leptadenia reticulata), Ashoka (Saraca asoca)

Tablets - Kaishora Guggulu, Kanchanara guggulu, Triphala guggulu, Punarnava guggulu, Yogaraja guggulu, Chandraprabha vati

Kashaya (Decoctions) – Dashmool Kwath, Punarnavadi Kwath, Varunadi Kwath

Asava-Arishta (Fermented preparations) – Kumaryasavam, Ashokarishtam, Dashamoolarishtam

Lehya (Linctus) – Shatavari gulam, Chyavanaprash

Ghrita (Medicated ghee) – Phala Ghrita, Shatavari ghrita

Ahara:

Diet plays a major role in the treatment of any disease. There is a saying, 'Annam Brahmam,' which means food is compared to God as it sustains and nourishes life. One should indulge in food that increases Ojas (Essence of all tissues) and immunity to regulate ovulation and enhance fertilization. A proper diet boosts fertility, cleanses the uterus, improves hormonal function, and boosts physical and mental health.

Recommended Diet: Milk, ghee, nuts, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, plant-based protein – beans, peas, whole grains, honey, cumin, turmeric, asafoetida, saffron, dates, fresh fruits, and vegetables, garlic.

Unwholesome Diet: Spicy food, food that causes a burning sensation, cold food and drinks, dry food items like crackers, salads, and incompatible foods.

Vihara:

A healthy lifestyle is important in treating Endometriosis. One should avoid excess thinking, worries, and stress; have timely food and proper sleep; follow daily and seasonal routine according to Ayurveda; do simple exercise but avoid strenuous sports activities; avoid overindulgence in sex and follow good hygiene.

 

 

If you wish to consult Ayurveda, you may contact one of our Ayurveda Practitioners, Gurnam Saini or Pooja Saini, in Melbourne. Both of our Practitioners are Qualified Ayurveda Doctors from India. You may contact us at "Pure Herbal Ayurved Clinic." People who can't reach us personally may choose online Ayurveda consultation.