Abstract

KASHTARTAVA: AN AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING DYSMENORRHEA

Ashwini Nandkumar Bangar*, Vinayak Shinde and Anjali Jadhav

Abstract

Dysmenorrhea, characterized by painful menstrual cramps, can be severe enough to disrupt daily activities and significantly reduce the quality of life. It is a prevalent health issue among adolescents and is a common gynecological condition affecting women due to factors such as abnormal female reproductive system, psychosomatic influences, the release of prostaglandins, and pelvic congestion. In Ayurveda, dysmenorrhea can be associated with Kashtartava or conditions like Udavartini Yonivyapada. It is a Tridoshaj disorder, primarily driven by Vata dosha, with the involvement of deranged Anulom gati of Apan and Vyana vata along with the vitiation of Rasa dhatu. Modern lifestyles, marked by stress, improper diet, irregular routines, overexertion, and malnutrition, can disturb the natural menstrual cycle (Rutuchakra), leading to various menstrual disorders. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of following Rutucharya and Dinacharya, along with dietary adjustments, yoga, pranayama, and meditation, to effectively manage dysmenorrhea. Additionally, treatments like Uttarbasti, Garbhashaya-balya aushadhi, and therapies such as Anuvasan or Matra Basti may be employed when necessary.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Kashtartava, Menstruation, Dysmenorrhea, Udavartini.