Abstract

ARTAVA: REFLECTION OF WOMEN HEALTH

Dr. Pooja Sahu*, Dr. Deepika Gupta, Dr. Anjana Saxena, Dr. Sarika Srivastava

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Abstract

Women are the foundation of the family, and their health is essential for the well-being of the family. "Healthy women, healthy world" highlights the significance role of women's health plays in the wellbeing and development of society. Women's health is interconnected with the overall health, stability, and progress of society and the world. In Ayurveda, the human body is controlled by three energies called Tridoshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—which are classified under seven Dhatus. These Dhatus also have Upadhatus, and Artava is one of the Upadhatus of Rasa Dhatu. Artava is associated with two specific phases: Ritukala (ovulation period) and Rajakala (menstruation period) in women. The specific characteristics of menstrual blood, along with its physiological and pathological variations, are described in Ayurvedic classics as Shuddha Artava and Artava Dushti. Shuddha Artava plays a crucial role in maintaining a woman's healthy reproductive life. When Artava differs from the characteristics of Shuddha Artava as described in classical texts, it may indicate Artava Dushti or menstrual abnormalities such as dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, amenorrhea, and uterine disorders, which could lead to infertility. Ayurvedic classics explain the color, texture, specific smell, amount, and other associated features, such as the type of pain, in various types of Artava Dushti. Therefore, by observing variations in menstrual blood, we can identify the diseases associated with it. Thus, the study of Artava and Artava Dushti plays a significant role in diagnosing pathological disorders related to the female reproductive system.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Artava, Raja, Dhatu, Updhatu, Menstruation etc.