AN AYURVEDIC APPROACH TOWARDS POSTMENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS - A REVIEW

Abstract

India is the second largest country in the world regarding population. As the life expectancy has increased, the population of postmenopausal women is also increased. Hence the problems associated with increasing age are increased. The studies of last two decades suggest that women in menopausal age report more phys-iological and psychological problems. Osteoporosis is one among them. Osteoporosis or porous bone is a worldwide problem, characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased risk of fractures. In modern science treatment available for menopausal symptoms is mainly symptomatic and has some adverse effects too. In Ayurveda we cannot find the name of this disease, but signs and symptoms of Asthi- Kshaya are found quite similar to osteoporosis. The func-tion of dhatu is dharaṇa (To maintain the structure) of the body. Among all dhatus, asthidhatu is responsi-ble for maintenance of structural framework of the body. It shapes the body and protects the vital organs. Acharya Charaka in Sutra Sthan has explained the concept of osteoporosis. Aggravation of Vata is a main cause of Asthi- Kshaya and so it is mentioned as a Vata related disorder in Samhitas. Principle of treatment mentioned in Charak Samhita is as, “Samanagunabhyaso Hi Dhatunaam Vruddhi Karanam”. According to it, things, which contain similar properties to a particular Dhatu of body, can be helpful to increase that one Dhatu. So Vatashamak medicines, diet, exercise having similar properties to Asthi Dhatu, Panchakarma, Rasayana can be very effective to promote bone cells in body. This study is an attempt to understand Ni-dana panchaka of this disease, and its holistic management in context of Ayurveda. Keywords: Menopause, Rajonivrutti, Osteoporosis, Asthikshaya