Herbal and Therapeutic Interventions in Shweta Pradara: A Literature Review

Abstract

Gynaecology is essential for monitoring and managing various conditions affecting women’s reproductive health. One of the most common concerns in clinical practice is Shweta-Pradara or leucorrhoea, which refers to vaginal discharge. In Ayurveda, Shweta-Pradara denotes excessive or abnormal white discharge and is regarded as a symptom rather than an independent disease, often indicating underlying issues such as infections, hormonal imbalances, or other systemic conditions. It is believed to arise primarily due to Kapha–Vata predominant Tridosha imbalance and may present as a manifestation in several Yoni-vyapadas, including Atyananda, Karinini, Acharna, Aticharna, Shleshmala, Upapluta and Prasramsini. Although the term “Shweta-Pradara” is not mentioned in the Brihatrayee, it is described in later classical texts such as Sharangdhar Samhita, Bhava Prakash, and Yoga Ratnakara. Commentator Chakrapani has defined it as “Pandura-Pradara,” meaning pale or whitish discharge. From a modern perspective, common causes of leucorrhoea include cervicitis, vaginitis, cervical ectopy, and bacterial vaginosis. Ayurvedic management focuses on the use of formulations with Tridosha-shamaka (balancing), Balya (strengthening), and Kashaya Rasa (astringent) properties. The condition may also be understood as a localized Kaphaja disorder associated with Apana Vayu. Key symptoms include vaginal discharge (Yonigat-Srava), itching (Yoni-kandu), pain (Yoni-shula), and lower backache (Kati-shula). Ayurveda recommends both external (Bahya) and internal (Abhyantara) therapies for its management. The present study aims to analyze the Nidana (causative factors) and Samprapti (pathogenesis) of Shweta Pradara, along with its Samprapti Vighatana (therapeutic intervention), in order to explore effective alternative treatment approaches for patients.