Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SHWETA PRADARA (LEUCORRHOEA)

Dr. Ayushi Baranwal*, Dr. Bhappil Sharma, Dr. Akshita Gangwar

Abstract

Background: Shweta Pradara, a condition characterized by an abnormal, whitish or discolored vaginal discharge, correlates with the modern clinical entity of leucorrhoea. While often not life-threatening, it significantly impairs the quality of life, causing physical discomfort, psychological distress, and affecting personal and social well-being. In conventional medicine, management is often symptomatic, focusing on antimicrobials for infections or hormonal therapy, which may lead to recurrence and side effects. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a holistic and etiopathogenesisbased approach to managing Shweta Pradara. Objective: This review aims to systematically compile and critically analyze the classical and contemporary Ayurvedic understanding, etiology, pathogenesis, and comprehensive management strategies for Shweta Pradara. Methods: A thorough literature search was conducted in classical Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and their commentaries, along with relevant research articles from electronic databases like PubMed, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar. Results: Ayurveda perceives Shweta Pradara primarily as a disorder of the Artavavaha Srotas (reproductive channels) and a manifestation of Kapha and Vata dosha vitiation, often associated with Ama (toxins) and Dhatu Kshaya (tissue depletion). The management is multifaceted, encompassing Shodhana (purification therapies like Vamana and Virechana), Shamana (palliative treatments with herbs and formulations), dietary modifications (Pathya), and lifestyle regimens. Key medicinal plants like Ashoka (Saraca asoca), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), and Udumbara (Ficus glomerata) form the cornerstone of therapy due to their astringent, rejuvenative, and hormone-balancing properties. Conclusion: Ayurveda provides a robust, constitutional, and root-cause-focused paradigm for managing Shweta Pradara. Its emphasis on restoring digestive fire (Agni), purifying the channels, and strengthening the reproductive tissues offers a promising alternative or adjunct to conventional treatment, potentially reducing recurrence.

Keywords: Shweta Pradara, Leucorrhoea, Yonivyapat, Aparisrava, Prakriti, Panchakarma.