AYURVEDIC INTERVENTION IN KASHTA ARTAVA W.S.R. TO PRIMARY DYSMENORRHOEA: A CASE REPORT

Kashta Artava is characterized by painful menstruation and may significantly affect routine activities and quality of life. Primary dysmenorrhoea refers to menstrual pain occurring in the absence of identifiable pelvic pathology. From an Ayurvedic perspective, vitiation of Vata, particularly ApanaVata, is considered to lead to Kastha Arthava. In this case, a 23-year-old unmarried female presented with painful menstruation for three years, associated with lower abdominal pain, low backache, leg pain, nausea, fatigue, and occasional diarrhea during the first one to two days of menstruation. Pelvic ultrasonography and relevant investigations revealed no significant abnormality. Management was planned based on Vata Shamana and restoration of Apana Vata function. Sthanika Abhyanga and Nadi Swedana followed by Matra Basti with Dashamoola kwatha churna Siddha Ksheera paka were administered. Subsequent courses of Matra Basti were given with Sahacharadi Taila and Ksheerabala Taila. Cap Hinguvachadi taila and Gandharvahasthadi kashaya were administered internally along with dietary and lifestyle modifications. Progressive improvement was observed over three consecutive menstrual cycles. The total assessment score decreased from 18/21 before treatment to 11/21, 5/21, and 2/21 at the first, second, and third month assessments, respectively. Pain intensity decreased from 8/10 to 1/10, with reduction in pain duration, functional interference, and associated symptoms. No adverse events were reported. This case demonstrates the potential application of Ayurvedic management principles in Kashta Artava presenting as primary dysmenorrhoea. Further systematic clinical studies are warranted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this approach.