Ayurvedic Management of Uterine Fibroids

Abstract

Uterine fibroids are common benign tumors affecting women of reproductive age and are a major cause of heavy menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhea and reduced quality of life. Conventional management is often symptomatic, involving hormonal therapy or surgical interventions, which may have limitations such as side effects, recurrence or loss of reproductive potential. This case study highlights the role of Ayurvedic management in a 39-year-old female presenting with heavy menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhea and low backache of one year duration. Ultrasonography revealed a bulky uterus with intramural fibroids measuring 2.5×2.5cm and 2×2cm. From an Ayurvedic perspective, the condition was diagnosed as Garbhasayagata mamsagranthi with associated Asrgdara. The pathogenesis involved Agnimandya leading to Ama formation, followed by Vata-kapha Dosha vitiation and Rakta-Pitta involvement, resulting in Granthi formation and excessive uterine bleeding. The patient was managed with Samana chikitsa including Musalikhadiradi kashayam, Asokavalkala ksheera kashayam, Pushyanugam tablets, Triphala guggulu, Chandraprabha vati and Vara churnam, followed by Satapushpa rasayana. Significant clinical improvement was observed, with reduction in menstrual bleeding, relief from dysmenorrhea and backache and improvement in overall well-being. Ovulatory function was restored, indicating normalization of reproductive physiology. This case demonstrates that Ayurvedic management can effectively control symptoms and address the underlying pathology of uterine fibroids. It offers a safe, non-surgical alternative, emphasizing correction of Agni, elimination of Ama and restoration of Dosha balance. Further studies are required to validate these findings.