CLINICAL EVALUATION OF PANCHAKARMA AND AYURVEDIC ORAL THERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME (PCOS): A CASE STUDY

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder that arises from a combination of ovarian dysfunction and androgen excess. It commonly presents with menstrual irregularities, anovulation, weight gain, acne, and clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism, accompanied by polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound. Lifestyle changes, reduced physical activity, dietary imbalances, and environmental factors have contributed to the growing burden of PCOS across various populations. Prevalence rate of PCOS globally is 5% to 26%.[1,7] [2,7] Although PCOS is not described as a single disease entity in Ayurvedic literature, several conditions—including Vandhya Yonivyapad, Artavavaha Srotodushti, Nashtartava, Artava Kshaya, Pushpaghni Jataharini, and Vikuta Jataharini—demonstrate clinical similarities to the contemporary understanding of PCOS, particularly in relation to menstrual disturbances and impaired ovulation.[11,12,13] This case report describes a 23-year-old woman who presented to the Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga outpatient department with irregular menstrual cycles, progressive weight gain, acne, and hair fall. Ultrasonographic evaluation confirmed polycystic ovarian morphology. She underwent an Ayurvedic treatment protocol comprising Kanchanar Guggulu, Kuberaksha Vati, Shankha Vati, and Shatpushpa Churna, along with a Yoga Basti regimen. The Basti protocol included Anuvasana Basti with Shatpushpa Taila and Niruha Basti prepared with Dashmoola Kwatha. The therapeutic approach resulted in notable improvement in menstrual regularity and associated symptoms, indicating the potential of integrative Ayurvedic management in PCOS.[3,5] [10,11]