Menopause is the when a woman’s menstrual cycle comes to an end. This usually occurs between the ages of 45-55, but varies from individual to individual. Aging has a “Vata” predominated stage. Hence, the some women experience symptoms seen when Vata dosha raises.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms are split into two sections: early and late. Early symptoms include irregular bleeding, hot flushes and mood swings. Later symptoms can include vaginal dryness and irritation, osteoporosis and heart problems including higher blood pressure and angina in severe cases. Sleep disturbance may also be experienced.
Vata type menopause includes depression, anxiety and insomnia. Pitta type menopause manifests in angry and hot flushes. Kapha type menopause shows signs of listlessness, increase in weight, mental heaviness.
CAUSES
As ageing occurs, levels of estrogen in the body drops. It is believed that this drop causes the symptoms of menopause.
DIAGNOSIS
If you suffer severely from any symptoms of menopause, please visit your health practitioner or our Ayurvedic consultant to understand the type of menopause the type of menopause she is under going then this can be handled through Ayurveda to avoid unpleasant side effects.
AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS
Menopause is a natural occurrence, but Ayurveda can provide some helpful and natural answers to subside the effects and disturbances cause by this phase. Specific treatments will depend on your primary dosha – Vata, Pitta or Kapha, so please consult your Ayurvedic doctor. Some general guidelines for all women are outlined below.
Lifestyle changes
Regular exercise, including yoga and gentle walking, jogging or swimming are vital. Meditation is likely to help you to control and balance your mood swings. Plenty of sleep during this time is also important. Ensure you go to bed before 10pm, but try to rise at around 6am. Limit your exposure to sunlight.
Dietary changes
w Introduce soy or Soya beans into your diet
w Eat plenty of cereal, grain and seed based food
w Ensure a varied diet, high in fruits and vegetables
w Drink plenty of warm water throughout the day
Treatments
Ayurveda attributes the stubborn symptoms of menopause to the build up of wastes and toxins, referred to as Ama in the body's tissues. In this case, a traditional Ayurvedic detoxification program "Panchakarma," may be needed to clear the body's channels and gain relief. This internal cleansing approach is also the treatment of choice for more serious problems such as osteoporosis and high cholesterol.
HELPFUL HERBS & AYURVEDA PREPARATION
Ashoka (Saraka asoka); Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra); Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba); Vervain (Valeriana offcinalis), Aloe gel, Shatavari, Saffron, Kapikacchu, Ashwaganda, taken in milk decoctions. Ayurveda preparations like Ashokarishta, Dashamularishta.
HOME REMEDIES
- A breakfast of cooked apples, prunes and figs cleanses the digestive track and helps to balances doshas.
- Boil 2-3 teaspoons of carrot seeds in milk. Allow it to stand, then strain the mixture. Drink this milk 2-3 times per day.
- Take a teaspoon of liquorice powder once or twice a day.
- Take Chywanaprash daily for general rejuvenation.
IMPORTANT: Don’t take any medicines without consulting a qualified Ayurvedic Doctor/health professional. All yoga and meditation must be taught by qualified instructors.
Call HERBAL AYUR for free consultation and advice from a qualified Ayurveda Doctor on 01895 622336 or 01252 522090. You can purchase most of the herbal products mentioned in the articles from us.
Or visit one of our centres:
w
w Farnborough Leisure Centre, Farnborough, Hants
For more information please email us: info@herbalayur.com
