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Heavy menstrual bleeding, known as menorrhagia, is a common concern among women. It can impact your daily life badly. In Ayurveda, excessive bleeding is often linked to an imbalance in the Pitta and Vata doshas, which govern blood circulation and reproductive health. Ayurvedic treatments focus on restoring balance through herbal remedies, dietary modifications, and lifestyle adjustments.

Understanding heavy periods in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, three doshas responsible for three menstrual cycle are:

• Vata dosha regulates the flow of blood.
• Pitta dosha influences heat and metabolism, including the quality of blood.
• Kapha dosha helps maintain reproductive tissues.

Heavy bleeding is often due to aggravated Pitta and Vata doshas, leading to excessive heat in the body, weakening of the uterine lining, and irregular blood flow.

Common causes of heavy bleeding

From an Ayurvedic perspective, some of the common causes include:

• Excessive intake of spicy, sour, and oily foods, which aggravate Pitta.
• Chronic stress and anxiety, which disturb Vata and lead to irregular cycles.
• Anemia or poor nutrition, affecting blood quality and clotting.
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or fibroids, which disrupt hormonal balance.
• Excessive physical activity or lack of rest, disturbing both Pitta and Vata.

Ayurvedic treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding

Ayurveda offers several natural remedies to manage heavy menstrual flow effectively.

Ashoka (Saraca indica): Ashoka bark helps regulate menstrual flow and balance hormones.

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): It nourishes reproductive tissues and supports hormonal balance.

Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa): Helps reduce excessive bleeding by promoting uterine health.

Nagkesar (Mesua ferrea): A natural hemostatic agent that helps in blood clotting and prevents excessive bleeding.

Amla (Emblica officinalis): A rich source of vitamin C, it enhances iron absorption and strengthens the blood vessels.

It is better to consult a good ayurvedic doctor near you for personalized treatment plan.

Dietary Modifications

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in managing menorrhagia.

• Increase cooling foods: Include coconut water, cucumber, pomegranate to balance Pitta.
• Iron-rich foods: Consume spinach, beetroot, dates, figs, and sesame seeds to prevent anemia.
• Hydrating fluids: Drink plenty of water infused with coriander seeds or fennel to cool down the body.
• Avoid Pitta-aggravating foods: Reduce spicy, sour, and excessively salty foods.

Lifestyle adjustment

Simple changes in daily habits can help regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent excessive bleeding.

• Practice stress management: Engage in meditation, pranayama (breathing exercises), and yoga.
• Follow a regular sleep schedule: Lack of sleep aggravates Vata and Pitta, leading to hormonal imbalances.
• Avoid excessive physical exertion: Over-exercising can increase heat in the body and worsen bleeding.
• Maintain a warm oil massage routine: Abhyanga (self-massage) with sesame or coconut oil calms Vata and reduces stress.

Home remedies for heavy periods

• Coriander Seed Infusion: Boil one teaspoon of coriander seeds in a cup of water, reduce to half, and drink twice daily.
• Fenugreek Water: Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and drink the water in the morning to regulate hormones.
• Ripe Banana with Ghee: Eating a banana with a teaspoon of ghee helps in balancing Vata and Pitta.

When to visit a doctor

While Ayurvedic treatments are highly effective, it is essential to seek medical attention if:

• Bleeding lasts longer than seven days.
• There is severe fatigue, dizziness, or breathlessness.
• There are large blood clots or intense abdominal pain.
• You experience irregular cycles or symptoms of underlying conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.

Conclusion

Ayurveda provides a holistic and natural approach to managing heavy menstrual bleeding. By incorporating herbal remedies, dietary changes, and a balanced lifestyle, one can restore harmony to the body and regulate the menstrual cycle. If symptoms persist, consult an Ayurvedic doctor for a personalized treatment plan.

Embrace Ayurveda’s wisdom for a healthier, balanced menstrual cycle!