Role of Laghu phala ghrita in udavartini yonivyapad with special reference to primary dysmenorrhoea - A case study

Women's health is an important aspect of healthcare, and menstruation is a natural physiological process. Udavartini Yonivyapad, described in Ayurveda, is primarily caused by Prakupita Vata. According to Acharya Charaka, suppression of natural urges (Vegadharana) aggravates Vata, causing its reverse movement and producing pain (Ruja) in the Yoni.[1] The aggravated Vata initially obstructs the downward flow of menstrual blood (Rajah), resulting in painful menstruation, followed by relief after its discharge.[2,3,4] This condition can be correlated with primary dysmenorrhoea in modern medicine. Primary dysmenorrhoea is characterized by spasmodic lower abdominal pain beginning shortly before or at the onset of menstruation. The pain may radiate to the lower back and medial thighs and may be associated with nausea, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhoea, headache, and other systemic symptoms. [12] Conventional management includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormonal therapy. In Ayurveda, Snehana is an important treatment modality for Vata Shamana. Ghrita possesses Madhura and Sheeta properties and is traditionally considered beneficial for Vata Prashamana and Shoola Shamana. [10] According to Acharya Sharangadhara, Laghu Phala Ghrita is indicated for Yonidoshahara and is described as beneficial in Yonishoola. [9] This case report describes a 22-year-old female presenting with lower abdominal pain, nausea, and fatigue for six months. Laghu Phala Ghrita, 5 ml with ushnodak, was administered twice daily before meals, beginning ten days before the expected onset of menstruation, for three consecutive menstrual cycles. This case aims to explore the role of Laghu Phala Ghrita in the management of Udavartini Yonivyapad, correlated with primary dysmenorrhoea.