Kolkata/IBNS: Irregular periods are a growing concern among women, often caused by hormonal imbalances, stress, poor lifestyle, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), or the onset of menopause.

Dr. Debabrata Sen, an Ayurvedacharya and founder of Parampara Ayurveda, with a legacy rooted in Eastern India’s oldest Ayurvedic traditions, voices his views on the rising issue.

"In my years of practice", said Dr. Sen, "I have seen girls and women of all ages reclaim their health through Ayurveda.

"Irregular periods are not a life sentence—they are a signal. Ayurveda teaches us to listen to the body, restore balance, and heal naturally.”

Trained in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery at the University of Calcutta, Dr. Sen believes, “Ayurveda is not just a wellness fad—it is a Swadeshi science rooted in centuries of clinical practice.”

Sen's family has served as royal physicians to historical luminaries such as the Tagores and Acharya Prafulla Chandra Roy.

Irregular Periods and PCOS in Ayurveda

Dr. Sen said that from an Ayurvedic standpoint, menstrual irregularities are typically the result of imbalances in the tridoshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. PCOS, which affects 1 in 5 Indian women, is seen as a Kapha-Vata disorder.

Excess Kapha causes cyst formation, while Vata disrupts the menstrual cycle’s timing. Toxins (ama), poor digestion (agni), and lifestyle disturbances further worsen the symptoms, he added.

Sen recommended a holistic Ayurvedic approach to support hormonal health, especially in women facing issues like PCOS and menstrual irregularities.

Representational photo: Freepik

He advised key herbal interventions, including Ashoka (Saraca indica) for uterine health, Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) as a fertility tonic, Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) for managing menstrual symptoms, and Triphala to aid digestion and detoxification.

These herbs are known to help regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, thereby promoting ovulation and reducing symptoms like acne and hirsutism, he added.

He mentioned that diet also plays a crucial role, with a sattvic (fresh, seasonal, and plant-based) diet being ideal.

Dr. Sen advised warm, home-cooked meals with red rice, millets, ghee, and nutrient-rich foods like almonds and sesame seeds, while avoiding processed, sugary, and cold foods that may contribute to toxin buildup.

Lifestyle adjustments are equally vital—daily routines such as early rising, self-massage and consistent sleep support hormonal balance, instructed Sen.

Stress management techniques like pranayama, meditation, and yoga postures such as Baddha Konasana and Bhujangasana further enhance reproductive well-being.

Sen stated that women who adopt Ayurvedic routines often see results within 3–6 cycles.

He further stressed the benefits: more regular and less painful periods, better skin, mood stability, and improved fertility—without the side effects of synthetic medication.