REVIEW ARTICLE ON NASTARTAVA IN RELATION TO SECONDARY AMENORRHEA

Nashtartava, a concept described in Ayurveda, refers to the diminished or absent formation of Artava (menstrual blood) in females. It can be correlated with Secondary Amenorrhea in modern medical science, a condition characterized by the cessation of menstrual cycles in women who previously had normal menstruation. This condition may arise due to hormonal imbalances, stress, nutritional deficiencies, polycystic ovarian changes, thyroid disorders, or lifestyle factors. The present review aims to explore Nashtartava from Ayurvedic perspectives and correlate it with Secondary Amenorrhea, focusing on its etiopathogenesis (Nidana), pathophysiology (Samprapti), and management principles. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe involvement of the Vata and Pitta doshas and vitiation of the Artava vaha srotas, leading to disruption of normal menstrual physiology. Modern understanding highlights the role of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis dysfunction in the development of amenorrhea. Ayurvedic management emphasizes Shodhana (purificatory therapies), Shamana (palliative treatments), and the use of Artava janaka dravyas, along with lifestyle regulation. This review highlights the integrative approach between Ayurveda and modern medicine for better understanding and management of menstrual disorders, aiming to improve reproductive health and quality of life in affected women.