What Is PCOD and Why Does It Happen?

PCOD is a complex manifestation involving many factors and organs such as obesity, insulin resistance, irregular menstrual bleeding (in most cases, excessive menstrual bleeding), abnormal menstrual periods and cycles, lack of ovum production and ovulation et cetera. It is a common female endocrine disorder affecting approximately 5 to 12% of women it causes worry as it is commonly found in reproductive age. Also, it is thought to be one of the leading causes of female infertility.

Understanding PCOD: The Basics

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a hormonal disorder where the ovaries produce excessive immature eggs, leading to cyst formation. It results in irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and infertility. The exact cause is unknown according to modern medicine.

According to Ayurveda, PCOD is considered a disorder caused by an imbalance in Vata and Kapha doshas, leading to the accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the reproductive system.

What Causes PCOD?

According to modern research, the exact cause is unknown, but it is linked to:

  • Hormonal imbalances (high androgens, insulin resistance)
  • Lifestyle factors (poor diet, stress, lack of exercise)
  • Genetic predisposition

According to Ayurveda, causes include:

  • Poor digestion (Mandagni) leading to toxin buildup
  • Kapha aggravation due to a sedentary lifestyle and heavy diets
  • Vata imbalance due to stress, causing irregular ovulation and menstrual disturbances

Ayurvedic Perspective: The Role of Imbalanced Doshas and Ama (Toxins)

Kashyapa bears some similarities with the symptoms of PCOS.

In Ayurveda, the balanced state of doshas is mainly responsible for health and any derangement to this will lead to disease.

By the outlook of the symptoms of PCOS as per modern description, it becomes clear that even though they are not compiled as a syndrome in Ayurveda, most of them have been described as features of separate diseases or conditions.

The symptoms commonly found in these conditions can be summarized below-

  1. Menstrual irregularities have been described under artava vyapads or Yonirogas (uterine disorders).
  2. Anovulation is included under Vandhya (infertility).
  3. Obesity is the condition described as Sthoulya, a santarpanajanya vikara.
  4. Acne and Baldness have been described as Mukhadooshika and Khalitya, two independent pathogenesis.
  5. Hyperinsulinemia leads to type 2 Diabetes mellitus, and is described under prameha. It is also mentioned as a complication of sthoulya.

Is PCOD Affecting Your Life?

Common PCOD Symptoms: 

  1. Menstrual disturbance- less menstrual bleeding, absence of menstruation, or abnormally high and irregular bleeding
  2. Elevated levels of male hormones (androgens)
  3. Androgenic features such as hirsutism, acne, alopecia, etc, 
  4. Obesity
  5. Infertility caused by improper ovulation etc.
  6. Dark-coloured band-like skin lesions at the back of the neck, and inner thighs, called Acanthosis nigricans.
  7. Enlarged cystic ovaries

Who Is at Risk of PCOD?

Individuals having:

  1. Sedentary Lifestyle
  2. High Stress Levels
  3. Wrong Dietary Habits- Junk & Processed Food
  4. Overexertion during the Menstrual Cycle
  5. Not maintaining Menstrual Hygiene- Rajaswala Paricharya of Ayurveda

Why Ayurvedic Treatment for PCOD is Sustainable?

Ayurveda works on the root cause of Kapha Vikruti, Aama formation, and Agni Mandya. It removes Kapha & Vata Vikruti which helps in proper hormone secretion and removal of obstruction of Vata which leads to appropriate Menstrual Flow.

How does Ayurveda help manage PCOD Naturally?

Ayurvedic Goal: Balancing Hormones and Detoxifying the Body

Ayurveda Offers a Sustainable Solution for Managing PCOD. It works on the root cause of Kapha Vikruti, Aama formation, and Agni Mandya. It removes Kapha & Vata Vikruti which helps in proper hormone secretion and removal of obstruction of Vata which leads to appropriate Menstrual Flow.

Effective Ayurvedic Herbs for PCOD Management

Kanchanar, Guggul, Aloe vera, Ginger, Chitrak & Amla are some of the herbs used to treat PCOD. These are used in specific Ayurvedic Formulations to make an effective Drug which is to be consumed only after an Ayurvedic Doctor’s recommendation

Home Remedies for PCOD Relief

For Pain Relief during Menstrual Periods- take 2 tbsp of melted ghee with some lukewarm water.

Ayurvedic Therapies to Support Hormonal Balance and Menstrual Health

Basti is one of the best Panchkarmas given for PCOD Patients. Other therapies are decided based on the individual’s condition.

Long-Term Strategies to Manage PCOD

Daily Practices to Regulate Menstrual Cycles

  • Good Physical Movement- Yogasanas, Cycling, Swimming, etc.
  • Stress Regulation- Pranayama, Dharana, 
  • Good Dietary Habits- Timely meals, Mitahara, avoiding stale & Junk Food

FAQs About Ayurvedic Treatment for PCOD

1. Which Ayurvedic herbs are most effective for PCOD?

Shatavari, Ashoka, Lodhra, Triphala, and Guggul help balance hormones and improve ovarian function.4

2. Can Ayurveda help regulate irregular periods caused by PCOD?

Yes, herbs like Ashoka and Shatavari, along with detox therapies and lifestyle changes, help restore menstrual regularity.

3. How does Panchakarma help in managing PCOD?

Panchakarma therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Basti (medicated enema) remove toxins, balance hormones, and improve metabolism.

4. Is Ayurvedic treatment safe for young women with PCOD?

Yes, Ayurvedic treatment is natural and safe when personalized by an expert. It helps prevent long-term complications.

5. Can Ayurveda help with weight loss in PCOD cases?

Yes, herbs like Triphala and Guggul boost metabolism, while diet and yoga support healthy weight management.

6. How long does Ayurvedic treatment take to show results for PCOD?

Results vary based on severity; mild cases may improve in a few months, while chronic cases take longer.

7. What is the role of diet in Ayurvedic management of PCOD?

A Kapha-balancing diet with warm, light, and fiber-rich foods helps reduce symptoms and improve digestion.

8. Can Ayurveda improve fertility in women with PCOD?

Yes, Ayurvedic herbs and therapies improve ovulation, egg quality, and uterine health, enhancing fertility.

9. Are Ayurvedic remedies effective for PCOD-related acne and hair loss?

Yes, herbs like Neem, Manjistha, and Aloe Vera help purify blood, reduce acne, and control hair fall.

10. Can Ayurvedic treatment be combined with modern medicine for PCOD?

Yes, Ayurveda can complement modern treatments under expert supervision for a holistic approach.