HOME REMEDIES FOR POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN DISEASE

OVERVIEW

Polycystic ovarian disease is a health condition in which there is imbalance of hormones in females. It occurs during their reproductive stage. The ovaries produce partially mature eggs in a large number which over time convert into cysts. Ovaries become larger in size and secrete increased amount of androgens. Androgens cause irregular menstrual cycles, hair loss, weight gain and infertility. Due to stressful life, it is seen to be very common among females. However, the exact cause of it is unknown.

Its early diagnosis and treatment can help in curing it. But if left untreated, it can lead to complications like diabetes, high cholestrol, obesity, heart diseases, etc.

Polycystic ovarian disease can be managed by certain dietary and lifestyle modifications.

CAUSES OF POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN DISEASE

Following are the causes of polycystic ovarian disease:

• Excessive production of androgens
• Inflammation
• Having family history of PCOD
• Increased insulin levels in blood

SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN DISEASE

The common signs and symptoms of PCOD are:

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Absence of menstrual cycle
• Heavy menstruation
• Hirsutism
• Facial hair growth
• Acne
• Excessive and rapid weight gain
• Darkening of skin around neck, under breasts, in groin
• Male pattern baldness
• Thinning of hair
• Hair loss

COMPLICATIONS OF PCOD

There are various complications of PCOD which arise if it is not treated well or at time:

• Infertility
• Type 2 diabetes
• Preterm labour
• Hypertension
• Abnormal uterine bleeding
• Sleep apnea
• Endometrial thickening which can further cause cancer
• Depression

HOME REMEDIES FOR POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN DISEASE

Polycystic ovarian disease can be managed by some of the following home remedies:

• Controlling carbohydrate intake – Increased intake of carbohydrates increase insulin levels in blood. It thus elevates androgen level. So carbohydrates should be consumed less.
• Intake of whole foods – Person suffering from PCOD should eat fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. There is no artificial sugar and help in maintaining insulin levels.
• Eating anti-inflammatory foods – PCOD is an inflammatory condition so foods which are anti-inflammatory in nature should be added. Foods like green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, nuts and olive oil, etc. possess anti-inflammatory properties.
• Increasing intake of fiber – Fibrous food helps in increasing digestion. Lentils, beans, sprouts, pears and avocados are rich in fiber. They prevent bloating and constipation like digestive problems.
• Avoid oily and junk food – Oily and junk food are diificult to digest and causes increase in weight. Hence, it is important to avoid such food.
• Intake of iron rich food – Women suffering from PCOD having excessive menstrual bleeding should take foods rich in iron. Because excessive blood loss causes iron deficiency. Foods such as spinach, broccoli, eggs, etc. are rich in iron.
• Avoid tea and coffee – Tea and coffee contain caffeine. Caffeine increases estrogen levels in blood. There occurs hormonal imbalance and so it is advised to avoid tea and coffee. The person should take herbal tea. It maintains blood insulin levels.
• Increasing intake of nuts – Nuts such as almonds, cashewnuts, bananas, etc.are rich in magnesium. Magensium helps in reducing stress and thus gives a good sleep.
• Eating soya products – Soya products maintains estrogen level in body and thus manages symptoms of PCOD. Soya milk, tofu, etc. are considered to be best soya products. However, people with breast cancer should consume on doctor’s advice.
• Regular physical exercise – doing regular physical exercise for 20-30 minutes a day keep the body healthy and fit. It balances body weight and reduces stress. The calories get burnt and sugar level is maintained.

HERBS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF PCOD

Following are the herbs which are used for the treatment of PCOD:

1. CINNAMON

• It is called dalchini and is used in large amount in indian cuisine.
• It has anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• It lowers blood cholestrol and blood sugar level.
• It regulates menstrual cycle and enhances fertility.
• Cinnamon balances progesterone and testosterone levels.

2. BASIL (TULSI)

• It is full of anti-androgenic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• It controls facial hair growth and acne. It helps in lowering blood sugar levels.

3. TURMERIC

• Turmeric increases immunity of body and thus helps in fighting infections.
• It helps in regulation of menstrual cycle.
• It reduces weight, acne and fatigue.
• It is anti-inflammatory in nature.
• Curcumin is the active component of turmeric and balances increased sugar level. It increases amount of good cholestrol.

4. ASHWAGANDHA

• Ashwagandha reduces stress, depression and insomina.
• It helps in regulating menstrual cycle and body weight.
• It also manages hair loss problem.

5. FENUGREEK

• PCOD patients have high glucose levels in blood. Methi or fenugreek seeds helps in maintaining normal blood sugar level. This in turn regualtes blood insulin level. It helps in weight reduction.

6. GINGER

• Ginger has active ingredients like shogaol, gingerol, zingerone, etc. These help in reducing inflammation and thus pain in abdomen.
• It is having antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant properties.
• It increases body’s immunity.

7. SHATAVARI

• Shatavari is asparagus racemosus. It is an ayurvedic herb. It improves follicular growth, their development and ovulation.
• It plays a key role in maintaining time period of menstrual cycle and normalising the blood flow.
• It is rich in vitamin B, bioflavonoids, calcium, zinc, etc. All these are essential nutrients for women’s health.
• It also helps in enhancing fertility.