ĀYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF PCOD WITH HYPERMENORRHEA USING ŚAMANA AUSHĀDHIS AND NASYA KARMA – A CASE STUDY

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age and is frequently associated with menstrual disturbances such as hypermenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, and irregular cycles. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that PCOD affects approximately 6–13% of women globally, while studies in India indicate a higher prevalence ranging from 10–25% among women of childbearing age. Hypermenorrhea, characterized by excessive menstrual bleeding, can be correlated in Āyurveda with Asṛgdāra, a condition involving abnormal and profuse discharge of Rakta during menstruation. In Āyurveda, PCOD can be understood under the spectrum of Artavavyāpād, where the pathogenesis involves Vāta-Kapha doṣa duṣṭi, Rasa-Rakta dhātu vikṛti, and Artavavāha srotoduṣṭi. The occurrence of Asṛgdāra (hypermenorrhea) in PCOD is primarily due to vitiation of Vāta and Kapha along with Rakta duṣṭi, leading to deranged Artava and excessive uterine bleeding. Management through Śamana Auṣadhis possessing Madhura-Tikta-Kaṭu Rasa, Laghu–Snigdha Guṇa, Uṣṇa Vīrya, and Yogavāhī properties helps in pacifying vitiated Doṣas, correcting Agni, and stabilizing Rakta and Artava. Nasya Karma plays a pivotal role in regulating neuro-endocrine function by acting through the nasal route and influencing the hypothalamo-pituitary-ovarian axis, thereby aiding in hormonal balance and normalization of menstrual flow.