Menopause is often considered by modern science as a sudden end to ovarian function. In Ayurveda, it is seen as a significant, natural transition in a woman’s life, referred to as Jara, meaning ageing. Ayurveda views this stage as a natural shift from the vibrant, transformative Pitta phase of life (roughly 20s to 50s) to the lighter, more subtle Vata stage after the age of 50.

This transition, especially during perimenopause, can be turbulent and disruptive as the body adjusts to new hormonal rhythms. Consulting an experienced expert at a leading Ayurvedic clinic in Pune can provide the personalized care needed to navigate this challenging phase smoothly.

The Foundational Role of Panchakarma in Transitional Health

For navigating this hormonal shift successfully, internal balance is paramount. This is where Panchakarma becomes essential. It is not just an ancillary treatment but often the key to addressing deep-seated imbalances that trigger severe perimenopausal symptoms.

Deep Cleansing and Systemic Reset: Panchakarma provides a profound systemic cleanse. Calming and grounding treatments like Snehan (oiling), Swedan (sudation), Basti (medicated enema), and Shirodhara (oil stream on the forehead) help relax the nervous system. This direct action on the nervous system and subtle channels is crucial for stabilizing the endocrine system and supporting hormonal balance.

Rejuvenation for Strength: Following the cleanse, Rasayana Chikitsa (rejuvenation therapy) is employed. This final step is vital for restoring energy, rebuilding tissues, promoting bone health and offering overall vitality, ensuring the body emerges stronger and more balanced after the transition.

By systematically preparing and rejuvenating the body, Panchakarma allows for a smoother, less disruptive experience of this new life phase.

Understanding the Imbalance

The symptoms often experienced during perimenopause and menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, anxiety, dryness in various areas, and sleep issues, primarily stem from an imbalance of the Doshas.

Pitta Imbalance: Hot flashes and irritability often arise from too much Pitta.

Vata Imbalance: Insomnia, anxiety, and dryness are signs of increasing Vata, which becomes more dominant as life progresses.

Ayurvedic treatment focuses on gently balancing these Doshas to support the transition rather than artificially replacing hormones.

Natural Therapies for Comfort and Balance

1. Diet and Daily Routine

The goal is to nourish the rising Vata and calm the lingering Pitta.

Nourishing Foods:

Focus on warm, cooked, grounding meals. Include healthy fats like ghee and olive oil. Sweet, sour, and salty flavours generally help stabilize Vata.

Avoid spicy, fermented, or highly acidic foods, as they can worsen Pitta.

Daily Routine:

  • Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Practice Abhyanga (self-oil massage) daily to soothe Vata and reduce dryness.
  • Engage in gentle activities like walking and yoga while avoiding intense, exhausting workouts.

2. Key Herbs for Hormonal Support

Some Ayurvedic herbs are especially known for supporting women’s reproductive health during this transition:

  • Shatavari: This primary female rejuvenative herb cools excess Pitta and addresses hot flashes and dryness.
  • Ashoka: Traditionally used to support uterine tissues.
  • Yashtimadhu: Helps balance hormone levels and soothe the adrenals.
  • Dashmool: A mix of ten roots that calms Vata and supports the nervous system.

By respecting the body’s natural cycle and adjusting diet and lifestyle according to Dosha principles with guidance from a trusted Ayurvedic clinic in Pune, this transition can become a time of deep wisdom and renewed energy.

This month, we are exploring & discussing the many facets of the relationship between Menopause & Ayurveda and how Ayurveda can assist you in adjusting to the new rhythm of your body and lifestyle. Stay tuned and follow us on Instagram for useful details. Click the link below:  https://www.instagram.com/ojasayurvedpune/