Female Health: Menorrhagia ~ 5 Simple Ayurvedic Considerations
Menorrhagia is a condition that results in excessive bleeding during a woman’s menstrual cycle. This can include both the amount of blood and/or the number of days during which bleeding occurs. The causative factors can vary from hormonal imbalances to diet and lifestyle patterns. Ayurveda classifies this disorder as a pitta [heat] imbalance and can be common during the pitta stage of life (ages 30-40 years).  If not properly managed, this can also lead to anemia and patients may start to feel fatigue and develop headaches amongst other symptoms.

Ayurveda Considers The Root Cause
It is important to discover the root cause of the disorder, as it may vary for each individual. From an ayurvedic perspective, the strength of agni [the digestive capacity] and the dosha [bodily humors] involved in the cause of menorrhagia must be considered in order to apply correct management. However, there are some general guidelines one may follow as pitta [fire] is the main dosha to be considered.

5 Simple Ayurvedic Considerations

• 1.      Reduce physical activity and simply rest instead. As the blood loss may have created fatigue and depletion in the body it is important to start building strength by avoiding strenuous activities.

• 2.      Improve the quality of blood by maintaining good iron levels. Foods such as beets, kale, raisins and currents can help to boost iron levels. Additionally, one can take a natural iron supplement with sufficient vitamin C to assist with iron absorption.  Bhumyamalaki is an herb that is also a good source of iron and can be taken as 1tsp in hot water at night. If there is an inflammatory condition leading to profuse bleeding, bhumyamalaki is particularly useful.

• 3.      Certain herbs can help to balance hormones such as primrose oil, shatavari, kumari asava (an herbalized wine with aloe vera) and ashok. To help build strength and combat fatigue, ashwagandha, bala and vidari can be added.

• 4.      Consuming pomegranate juice and aloe vera can help negate excess pitta [heat] in the body. Likewise, you may want to consider mint and CCF [cumin, coriander, and fennel] teas as well.

• 5.      Following a pitta pacifying diet and lifestyle may also help reduce symptoms and target the root cause. Also, avoid heavy activities such as weight lifting, jogging and hiking. Keeping a mineral and vitamin rich diet will also help with managing strength as the increased blood loss can also result in loss of vital minerals and nutrients. Maintaining iron levels and investigating into the root cause of the disorder is of prime importance in managing menorrhagia. Meditation and stress-reducing-gentle yoga may also be very beneficial.

Disclaimer:
This is strictly for educations purpose only and not to be considered medical advice.
Always first discuss with your primary care physician before considering any new regimen.
Herbs should always be considered under the guidance of a qualified holistic professional.

References:
– Lad, V. (1999). The complete book of Ayurvedic home remedies.
– Lad, V. (2012). Ayurvedic perspectives on selected pathologies
– Svoboda, R. (1999). Ayurveda for women: A guide to vitality and health
– Lonsdorf, N. (2004). The ageless woman