Introduction
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and reproductive disorder characterized by oligo- or anovulation, polycystic ovaries, and clinical and/or biochemical hyperandrogenism. A diagnosis is established when at least two of these features are present. PCOS affects approximately 5–15% of women and is increasingly prevalent due to modern lifestyle patterns. It commonly develops during adolescence or shortly after puberty and is observed in 15–20% of infertile women. Obesity is a frequent associated condition, affecting nearly 50–70% of individuals with PCOS.
Understanding the condition
PCOS is influenced by multiple interacting factors that contribute to its development and progression.
- Lifestyle, genetic, familial, and environmental factors play important roles.
- Obesity may disrupt insulin signaling and contribute to insulin resistance.
- The condition can begin during early adolescence and may be associated with early menarche and pubertal hair growth.
- The exact etiology remains unclear.
Ayurvedic perspective
Ayurveda emphasizes maintaining reproductive health through balanced lifestyle practices and physiological harmony. Neglect of Rutucharya, Rutumaticharya, and Dinacharya may contribute to stress, unhealthy dietary habits, hormonal imbalance, obesity, and amenorrhea. Ayurvedic management focuses on addressing the underlying causes rather than symptom suppression alone.
Therapeutic approach
Effective management involves correcting dietary and lifestyle factors:
- Avoidance of unhealthy dietary practices and junk foods.
- Incorporation of yoga and regular exercise.
- Use of interventions possessing Agni Deepana, Pachana, Vatanulomana, Lekhana, and Artavajanana properties.
Trikatu is recognized for its Deepana, Pachana, and Lekhana actions. Piperine is reported to enhance digestive secretions and enzyme activity, thereby supporting metabolism and helping address obesity-related factors associated with PCOS.1
Conclusion
PCOS is a multifactorial disorder requiring long-term management. Ayurveda offers an integrative approach centered on lifestyle correction, metabolic balance, and individualized therapy. By addressing underlying contributors to disease progression, Ayurvedic interventions may support both reproductive and metabolic health.2
References:
1. Zheng S, Chen Y, Ma M, Li M. Mechanism of quercetin on the improvement of ovulation disorder and regulation of ovarian CNP/NPR2 in PCOS model rats. J Formos Med Assoc. 2022;121(6):1081-1092. doi:10.1016/j.jfma.2021.08.015. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0929664621003910?via%3Dihub
2. Pardhekar AD, Waskar R, Pardhekar A, Deshpande M. Ayurvedic Approaches to Holistic Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). J Pharm Bioallied Sci. 2024;16(Suppl 4):S4179-S4181. doi:10.4103/jpbs.jpbs_819_24. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11805180/#sec7