Does Ayurvedic medicine explain premenstrual symptoms?

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a psychneuroendocrine disorder with an unclear origin that manifests just before menstruation, marked by symptoms in the luteal phase, aligning with the Ayurvedic concept of Rituvyateetakala vyadhi characterized by pitta and vata imbalance. A key factor is Apana Vata located in the lower pelvic region, which plays a vital role in expelling sukla (seminal fluid), arthava (ovulation or menstrual flow), sakruth (feces), mootra (urine), and garbha (fetus). Although menstruation is a natural occurrence, numerous women undergo affective and somatic symptoms before this process. When Apana vayu is in prakruthavastha (balance state), it supports regular bodily functions, but vaigunyavastha (imbalance state) leads to various issues. Addressing imbalances in Apana Vayu contributes to alleviating both the mental and physical symptoms of PMS, leading to an enhancement in the overall well-being of women.

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