Analysis of Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya Dravya in Ayurveda

Introduction

Āyurveda, the ancient science of life, offers profound insights into the regulation and maintenance of the female reproductive system, particularly the menstrual cycle, which is governed by Ārtava (the menstrual blood and ovarian hormones). The Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya Dravyas are a unique class of herbs known for their ability to regulate and maintain a normal menstrual cycle by preventing excessive or irregular menstrual flow (menorrhagia or metrorrhagia). These herbs work by strengthening uterine function, improving hormonal balance, and preventing excessive uterine bleeding.

The term Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya can be broken down as:

• Ārtava (Menstrual Blood / Female Reproductive Fluids)
• Saṅgrahaṇīya (To Retain, To Control, To Regulate)

Thus, Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya Dravyas are those herbs that help in retaining and regulating the menstrual flow, preventing excessive bleeding (Rakta Pradara) and promoting reproductive health.

Importance of Menstrual Regulation in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, a healthy menstrual cycle reflects the proper functioning of Apāna Vāta, Rasa Dhātu, Rakta Dhātu, and Shukra Dhātu. Any disruption in these factors may lead to excessive menstrual bleeding (Asṛgdara), irregular cycles (Rakta Pradara), or weakness due to continuous loss of blood. The Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya herbs play a critical role in correcting these imbalances and ensuring menstrual health.

Pharmacological Importance of Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya Dravyas

The pharmacological actions of these herbs are primarily focused on hemostasis, hormonal modulation, uterine tonicity, and blood nourishment. The key properties of these herbs include:

1. Hemostatic (Rakta Stambhaka) Action

• Prevents excessive blood loss by constricting uterine blood vessels and enhancing clotting mechanisms.
• Example: Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), Nagkesar (Mesua ferrea), and Daruharidra (Berberis aristata).

2. Uterine Tonic (Garbha Sthāpaka) Action

• Strengthens uterine muscles and prevents uterine atony (weakness).
• Example: Ashoka (Saraca asoca), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), and Bala (Sida cordifolia).

3. Hormonal Balancing (Rasa-Dhātu Prasādaka) Action

• Regulates estrogen and progesterone levels to maintain a stable menstrual cycle.
• Example: Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia).

4. Anti-inflammatory (Shothahara) Action

• Reduces inflammation of the uterine endometrium, which can contribute to excessive bleeding.
• Example: Daruharidra (Berberis aristata), Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), and Haridra (Curcuma longa).

5. Blood Purification (Rakta Prasadana) Action

• Enhances blood quality to prevent anemia due to excessive menstrual bleeding.
• Example: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula).

Impact on Dosha-Dhātu Physiology

1. Effect on Doshas

• Vāta Dosha: Maintains the proper functioning of Apāna Vāta, which regulates the downward movement of menstruation.
• Pitta Dosha: Balances Ranjaka Pitta, which governs blood flow, preventing excessive heat and inflammation.
• Kapha Dosha: Stabilizes Kapha to support uterine tissues and prevent excessive depletion of fluids.

2. Effect on Dhatus (Body Tissues)

• Rasa Dhātu (Plasma Tissue): Supports hydration and prevents dehydration caused by excessive bleeding.
• Rakta Dhātu (Blood Tissue): Regulates blood circulation and prevents heavy menstrual bleeding and anemia.
• Mamsa Dhātu (Muscle Tissue): Strengthens uterine muscles to prevent atony and weakness.
• Shukra Dhātu (Reproductive Tissue): Enhances reproductive health and ensures a healthy ovulatory cycle.

Key Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya Dravyas and Their Actions

1. Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa)

• Action: Uterine astringent, hemostatic
• Uses: Prevents excessive menstrual bleeding, strengthens uterus

2. Ashoka (Saraca asoca)

• Action: Uterine stimulant, hormonal balancer
• Uses: Regulates menstrual cycles, prevents menorrhagia

3. Nagkesar (Mesua ferrea)

• Action: Blood coagulant, uterine tonic
• Uses: Controls excessive bleeding, strengthens blood vessels

4. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)

• Action: Estrogen modulator, reproductive tonic
• Uses: Supports hormonal balance and prevents menstrual irregularities

5. Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

• Action: Hormonal regulator, uterine relaxant
• Uses: Supports ovarian function and prevents menstrual disorders

6. Daruharidra (Berberis aristata)

• Action: Anti-inflammatory, anti-hemorrhagic
• Uses: Controls excessive menstrual bleeding and reduces uterine infections

Ayurvedic Formulations Utilizing Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya Dravyas

1. Ashokarishta

• Regulates menstrual cycles and prevents excessive bleeding.

2. Lodhrasava

• Strengthens uterus and prevents menorrhagia.

3. Chandraprabha Vati

• Balances hormones and supports reproductive health.

4. Pradarantaka Louha

• Used for treating Rakta Pradara (excessive menstrual bleeding).

5. Shatavari Kalpa

• Supports hormonal balance and uterine health.

Home Remedies for Managing Excessive Menstrual Bleeding

1. Lodhra and Nagkesar Decoction

• Ingredients: ½ tsp Lodhra powder, ½ tsp Nagkesar powder, 1 cup water
• Method: Boil and drink twice daily
• Benefits: Strengthens uterus, prevents excessive bleeding

2. Ashoka Bark Infusion

• Ingredients: 1 tsp Ashoka bark powder, warm water
• Method: Drink daily in the morning
• Benefits: Regulates menstrual flow and prevents excessive bleeding

3. Shatavari Milk for Hormonal Balance

• Ingredients: 1 tsp Shatavari powder, warm milk
• Method: Drink at night
• Benefits: Regulates estrogen levels and improves reproductive health

Historical Significance of Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya Dravyas

• Charaka Samhita: Mentions the use of Ashoka and Lodhra for treating excessive menstrual bleeding.
• Sushruta Samhita: Highlights the importance of Nagkesar and Daruharidra in Rakta Pradara (abnormal uterine bleeding).
• Ashtanga Hridaya: Recommends Yashtimadhu and Shatavari for hormonal balance and uterine nourishment.

Ayurvedic physicians have used these herbs for centuries to prevent excessive bleeding and maintain reproductive health in women of all ages.

Conclusion

Ārtava-Saṅgrahaṇīya Dravyas are crucial for maintaining a balanced menstrual cycle, preventing excessive bleeding, and ensuring overall reproductive health. Their actions on hormonal balance, uterine strength, and blood regulation make them indispensable in Ayurvedic gynecology.

A combination of Lodhra, Ashoka, Shatavari, Nagkesar, and Yashtimadhu, along with dietary modifications and lifestyle changes, can restore menstrual health and prevent gynecological disorders effectively.