Abstract

A REVIEW ARTICLE ON KASHTARTAVA WSR TO DYSMENORRHEA

Arpita Gupta*

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Abstract

Dysmenorrhea is defined as painful cramps that occur with menstruation incapacitating enough to interfere with routine activity. Dysmenorrhea is an important health problem of adolescents in school, as well as health practitioners that badly affects the daily activities and quality of life. Dysmenorrhea is the most common Gynaecological problem faced by women due to abnormal anatomical and functional aspect of uterus, psychosomatic factors, release of Prostaglandins, Pelvic congestion etc. Dysmenorrhea can be correlated with kashtartava or conditions like Udavartini Yonivyapada in Ayurveda. It is Tridoshaj vyadhi with Vata Predominance. There is derangement of Apan and Vyan vayu along with vitiation of Rasa dhatu. In present day life women are effectively facing challenges encountered by stressful life resulting in Mithya Ahar, vihar, over exertion & malnutrition this may direct to vikruti in “Rituchakra’’ leading to various vyadhi allied to menstruation. Ayurveda recommends ritucharya and dinacharya, diet modulation and yoga in the form of asanas, pranayam and meditation on a regular basis so as to alleviate dysmenorrhea effectively. Similarly, Uttarbasti, Garbhashaya balyaaushadhi, anuvasan or matrabasti can also be administered if necessary.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Kashtartava, Menstruation, Dysmenorrhoea, Uttarbasti.