Do you know almost 6-10% of the female population today suffers from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)? Though PCOS is a rising problem among women, people often have very little knowledge on the subject. There are enough medications that can help women suffering from PCOS, but due to the lack of knowledge, women often don’t know they are suffering from it until the problem gets severe. Out of all sources of treatment and medication, the most natural is Ayurveda. 

In this blog, we will talk in brief about what PCOS is, what are its symptoms & some natural remedies that can help aid the condition. If you are experiencing any of the given symptoms, it is best you consult an Ayurvedic practitioner immediately who can help improve your condition. 

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a common hormonal and reproductive disorder found in women. In this disorder, the ovaries often fail to release eggs causing various hormonal problems. Those dealing with this condition have slightly higher amounts of male hormones, known as androgens in their bodies. This often causes several serious cardiovascular, psychological, as well as neurological problems. 

The most common problem that arises due to PCOS  is irregular or no periods. 

Symptoms of PCOS:

Generally, the severity of symptoms varies from person to person. Below mentioned are some of the common symptoms of the syndrome: 

1. Abnormal periods: 

This one is the most commonly prevalent symptoms. Women with PCOS typically have Oligomenorrhea, which is a condition in which women experience irregular menstruation.

2. Excess Androgen: 

When the body produces excess androgen, one can observe physical symptoms, such as increased body and facial hair, acne, hair loss or hair fall. 

3. Infertility: 

Statistically, there are 20% of women with infertility issues who are diagnosed with this condition. The reason might be irregular ovulation or failure to ovulate.

4. Other Symptoms: 

Weight gain or trouble in losing weight along with mood swings, depression and anxiety, are also some symptoms of PCOS. There can be skin problems too, such as skin tags and skin darkening.

What are the Causes of PCOS?

Although the causes of PCOS are not clear yet, the factors mentioned below do play a significant role:

1. Heredity: 

Studies have shown that if PCOS runs in the family, women of the same kin are more likely to develop this condition.

2. Insulin Resistance: 

Believe it or not, up to 70% of women dealing with this condition have insulin resistance. This means that their cells are unable to utilise insulin adequately. When cells are unable to use insulin, the demand for insulin in the body increases.  Owing to this, the pancreas produces more insulin, resulting in excessive production of male hormones.

3. Inflammation: 

Since inflammation could be the cause behind androgen production, it can lead to several unwanted problems, including PCOS.

4. Hormone imbalance: 

Women with hormonal imbalance produce higher levels of androgen. This makes it harder for the ovaries to release fully-grown eggs, which may increase the chance of PCOS, leading to infertility. 

Dos & Don'ts

When you have PCOS, there are several things that you should and shouldn’t do, such as:

The Dos:

• Eat high-fibre greens as fibre enhances the metabolism and helps maintain a healthy weight
• Include a proper work out session in your daily routine
• Consume anti-inflammatory foods and spices, like ginger and turmeric
• Favour Ayurvedic Treatment for PCOS as it has no side effects

The Don'ts:

• Cut down on your sugar consumption
• Avoid foods rich in carbohydrate content
• Avoid a sedentary lifestyle
• Refrain from having gluten and flour

Can Ayurveda Help to Treat PCOS?

Ayurvedic Treatment for PCOS is quite common and practised worldwide now. Although other types of medications comprise treatments for the condition, many patients are turning towards Ayurveda today. 

This is because not only is Ayurveda effective but also comparatively a lot safer and affordable. This treatment includes the usage of herbs to enhance production & maintain the stability of hormones. Besides medicines, it recommends different remedies, along with a well-balanced diet that treats symptoms related to PCOS. 

Ayurveda's Perspective on PCOS:

Ayurveda is an ancient medical practice that began in India thousands of years ago. It upholds that a human body has three kinds of units namely, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, which flow within the body and play critical biological roles. 

An obstruction in the balance of these units can cause diseases. According to Ayurveda, PCOS is a Kapha dominant disease and leads to weight gain, impotence, temper fluctuations, and hormonal irregularity.

Ayurvedic Medicine for PCOS 

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At Nirogam, after extensive research and testing, we have come up with one of the best Ayurvedic Treatments for PCOS. Formulated with herbs, Picoshunya is an Ayurvedic supplement that helps to treat irregular menstruation. Please consult a doctor before starting this treatment in case you’re already consuming some other medicine.

Benefits:

•  Enhances ovulation
• Treats irregular menstruation
• Improves fertility
• Eradicates cysts

Dosage:

As per our physicians, it is recommended to take 1 or 2 tablets twice a day. 

Natural Ways To Aid The Treatment Of PCOS:

Besides medications, there are a few natural ingredients that can help in the treatment of PCOS. Some of them are mentioned below.

1. Foods Containing Inositol:

Inositol is a B vitamin that can enhance insulin response & promote ovulation in the body thus aiding in cases of PCOS. Usually, citrus fruits except lemon, cantaloupe, wheat bran, brown rice, corn & sesame seeds contain Inositol.

2. Minerals like Chromium & Zinc:

Chromium helps balance insulin levels in the body, thus correcting your body's sugar metabolism. Zinc, on the other hand, enhances fertility and strengthens the immune system. Unnecessary or undesired hair growth can also be cured with zinc supplements. 

Dairy products are high in both chromium & zinc content. Besides that, a high amount of chromium can be found in vegetables like broccoli, potatoes & green beans and fruits like apple, banana & grapes. To increase your zinc consumption you can resort to eating more legumes, nuts, whole grains & meat.

3. Evening Primrose Oil:

This oil has been used over time to assist with menstrual pain and infrequent period cycles. It can also control cholesterol count and oxidative pressure, both of which are associated with PCOS.

4. Vitamin D & Calcium Supplements: 

Essential to your endocrine system, Vitamin D and calcium can improve PCOS by controlling abnormal menstruation and aiding fertility. 

5. Honey:

Consuming honey and lime on an empty stomach in the morning regularly helps in fat reduction and maintenance of healthy weight.

6. Berberine:

Berberine is a compound found in herbs like Berberis, which is utilized in Chinese medicine to assist with insulin check. If you have PCOS, Berberine can promote your digestion and stabilize your body’s endocrine functions. Berberine is naturally found in plants like Barberry, Chinese Goldthread, Oregon grapes, etc. There are berberine supplements available under its Ayurvedic name Daru Haridra. 

7. Physical Activities:

Indulging in frequent physical activities can help maintain an adequate weight. You can include activities such as aerobics, swimming and more in your regime. Stretching exercises and long-distance running or even moderate, low-impact activities like yoga asana or Pilates can also help to treat PCOS. Besides this, short walks outdoors and some quality time for self-care can also decrease stress levels in your body; helping you cope up with psychological symptoms of PCOS. 

8. Maca Root:

The bulb of the maca plant is a popular herb utilized to increase productivity and fertility. It can improve the stability of the hormones and reduce cortisol levels.

9. Dark Chocolate:

Dark chocolate propels the secretion of happy hormones in the brain; and thus helps to fight the psychological symptoms of PCOS.

10. Holy Basil:

Commonly known as Tulsi, Holy basil has found its mention in several scriptures and studies as an all-powerful herb. Tulsi can decrease your blood sugar, enhance weight loss, and reduce your cortisol levels.

11. Liquorice Root:

The root of the liquorice plant includes a mixture named glycyrrhizin, which has some unusual elements. Liquorice root has been proposed as an anti-inflammatory plant that serves to metabolize glucose content and stabilize hormones.

12. Gokshura:

Gokshura is a herb that grows in a dry climate. It can help to stimulate ovulation and promote sufficient bleeding during periods. It also helps in reducing the number of ovarian sacs.

13. Chasteberry:

Also known as mom’s pepper, Chasteberry is a type of sub-tropical flowering plant. It has been utilized for ages to assist with conceiving. It can improve specific symptoms related to irregular periods.

14. Probiotics:

Probiotics are useful when it comes to managing PCOS. They can also decrease pain associated with menstruation.

15. Adequate Weight:

Maintaining a healthy weight can assist in insulin reduction, regulate your period, and reduce your risk of aggravating conditions related to PCOS.

16. Follow Good Sleep Regimen:

Sleep influences your anxiety levels, and assists to control cortisol to support your hormones. That’s one of the primary reasons why you should keep tabs on your sleep patterns.

17. Apple Cider Vinegar:

This helps in the regulation of insulin levels in the body propelled by the anti-glycemic effect (AGE). You can have this vinegar with lukewarm water in the morning for better results. 

18. Acupuncture:

There’s ample research to claim acupuncture as an effective aid for PCOS. Acupuncture increases the flow of blood to the ovaries and also helps in weight loss.

19. Maintaining Sugar Level:

Cut down your sugar consumption and replace it with sweeteners, like molasses and dates, since eating too much sugar can increase your insulin level & weight. 

20.  Green Tea:

Green tea is known to increase insulin obstruction. It can also assist with weight control in women with PCOS.

21. Eat Soy Products:

Soy can aid estrogen production in your body. This can help stabilize hormones for those dealing with PCOS. If you can’t consume soy products, try adding soy milk to your daily diet. 

22. Magnesium-Rich Food:

Bananas, almonds, spinach, and cashews, are foods rich in magnesium that can help you deal with PCOS to a great extent.

23. Add Some Fibre:

A diet high in fibre can help enhance your digestion. Avocados, lima beans, lentils, brussels sprouts, broccoli, pears, are all loaded in fibre.

24. Kale and Spinach:

These greens help in treating  PCOS symptoms. Both of them work as anti-inflammatory agents, helping fight the negative symptoms of this condition.

25. Try Broccoli: 

Broccoli is a high fibre food that fights insulin resistance in the body and assists to treat the symptoms of PCOS

26. Cut Down Excess Coffee Consumption:

Coffee is said to cause hormonal imbalances, especially the estrogen levels. So, try cutting down on its consumption and add herbal drinks to your diet. 

Ayurvedic Herbs to Treat PCOS

The following is a  list of essential herbs proven to be extremely helpful in PCOS:

1. Shatavari: 

It aids in improving insulin secretion and assists in treating menstrual irregularity as well. 

2. Shilajit (Purified Asphaltum):

Many women dealing with PCOS also deal with iron deficiency. Shilajit has anti-inflammatory qualities that can help aid this deficiency.

3. Turmeric:

It helps in increasing insulin levels, detoxifying the female generative system, eliminating acne, and more.

4. Vibhitaki:

The antimicrobial & anti-inflammatory properties of this herb can help cure PCOS. Besides, it is known to cure digestive problems as well.

5. Cinnamon:

Cinnamon not only has a delightful scent and flavour, but it also assists in controlling blood sugar levels. It has been recognized as an effective remedy for increasing insulin sensitivity & enhancing fertility.

6. Saw Palmetto:

This herb reduces the excessive hair growth caused by PCOS. It can be consumed in pill forms that are readily available in the market.

7. Guduchi:

This one is known for controlling blood sugar levels in your body. It also enhances immunity & can be used to treat liver conditions like hepatitis.

8. Neem:

This herb is filled with antimicrobial, antidiabetic & sedative properties that can help treat PCOS & its symptoms. It is also very helpful in reducing acne & other skin related ailments. Add neem leaf paste to lukewarm water and consume it once daily to get best results. 

9. Amla:

It is filled with VItamin C & helps decrease inflammation and weight, some of the primary causes of PCOS. It also helps enhance the digestive system’s health & increases immunity

10. Lodhra:

Lodhra is highly effective in reducing uterine disorders. Improving ovarian hormones and improving fertility are other advantages this herb has to offer.

11. Meshashringi:

This herb is known for increasing insulin sensitivity of the body. It has anti-diabetic properties & can also be used to support uterine strength. 

12. Ashoka:

Ashoka helps to control the hormonal imbalance in the body caused by PCOS. It is effective in controlling estrogen levels. 

13. Haritaki:

Haritaki has anti-tumour, anti-inflammatory properties which make it effective in fighting PCOS. It is also packed with nutrients like Vitamin C & minerals like selenium, copper, manganese, etc.

14. Ginger:

Ginger is proven to be effective in reducing menstrual pain. You can add ginger to herbal tea and have it as a mid-day drink. 

15. Ushira:

Consuming Ushira can help in muscle-relaxation and decreases tightness in the uterus. This aids to relieve the pain caused by PCOS.

16. Devadaru:

Devadaru is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, muscle-relaxing properties that help relieve PCOS symptoms.

17. Ashwagandha:

Ashwagandha works as an energizer and can prove useful in managing mood swings, which is a typical symptom of irregular period cycles. 

18. Yashad Bhasma:

It aids in controlling blood sugar levels & also boosting immunity. You can mix this herb with milk and consume like a health drink.

19. Kirat Tikta:

Kirat Tikta is famous for its anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties; hence, helpful in treating the irregularities of menstruation.

20. Garcinia Cambogia:

It increases hydroxy citric acid, which is useful for improving the metabolism; and thus helps in losing weight faster while managing the symptoms of PCOS.

Yoga for PCOS 

These yoga postures can help in PCOS. 

1. Sarvangasana:

Yoga postures like Sarvangasana or shoulder station pose rectify uterine dislocation, urinary and menstrual ailments. 

Step 1: Lie straight on your back.

Step 2: With your neck stiff and back uplifted, raise the legs upright to form an L shape.  

Step 3: Your hands should support your back to hold the back in place.

Step 4: Stay in this position for a few minutes & then relax.

2. Baddha Konasana:

Also known as the constrained angle, this pose stimulates the uterus as well as the urinary bladder. 

Step 1: Sit up straight extending your legs in front of you.

Step 2: Put your feet in a cross position in front and hold them with your fingers.

Step 3: Make sure the knees are straight and aligned. 

Step 4: Stay in this position for a few minutes & then relax.

3. Matsyasana:

The pineal and pituitary glands are excited and toned within Matsyasana (fish pose). Step 1: Lay straight on your back. 

Step 2: Uplift the lower pelvic region of your body

Step 3: Give pressure on the hands and elbows from the back.

Step 4: Stay in this position for 30 seconds & then relax.

Diet & Lifestyle Changes:

1. Low GI Diet: 

Follow a diet that is low in glycemic index. This will control sudden spikes of insulin and thus control hormonal imbalance.

2. Skipping Breakfast Is A Strict No: 

A healthy breakfast balances weight and checks hormonal imbalances in the body.

3. Have An Active Lifestyle: 

Having a sedentary lifestyle leads to obesity and other conditions. Hence, having an active life is always advised in curing PCOS.

4. Eat Healthily:

Cut down on your carb consumption and eat healthier fats instead. Healthy fats present in legumes and avocado help improve insulin resistance.

Home Remedies for PCOS: 

Many ingredients which we use in our daily cooking also have some medicinal properties. Here are few:

• Eating soaked fenugreek seeds helps in maintaining healthy levels of insulin in the body and burns surplus glucose. This, in turn, reduces testosterone levels in the body. 
• Consuming flax seeds can reduce the side effects of PCOS and utilize insulin in the body to better process glucose. Due to lack of ovulation, the androgenic hormones are not used correctly in polycystic ovary syndrome. 
• Consume lemon juice with honey in luke-warm water in the morning on an empty stomach. It can help decrease weight. 

Powerful Panchakarma Treatments: 

• Vamana: 

Vamana is a detoxifying and cleansing Panchakarma that helps in adjusting hormones, increases potency, and promotes weight loss. It is crucial for the successful long-term management of PCOS.

• Udvartana: 

It is an Ayurvedic therapy that involves the application of dry powder to the external body in the form of a massage. It serves to increase metabolism, thus helping accelerate weight loss. 

• Virechana: 

This is another cleansing and detoxifying Panchakarma. It is remarkably efficient in treating problems like obesity, abnormal or heavy periods, hormonal irregularities and, skin disorders. 

Sources:

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4341818/
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/symptoms/
• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1385%2FENDO%3A30%3A1%3A
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3277302/
• https://www.healthline.com/health/polycystic-ovary-disease#causes