PATHYA-APATHYA KALPANA IN KASHTARTAV – A SHORT REVIEW

Menstruation is natural event for every woman. Many women suffer from painful menstruation during this period which is termed as dysmenorrhea. It is one of the common gynecological problems. Dysmenorrhea closely resembles with the term Kashtartav mentioned in classical texts. Due to dysmenorrhea women feel discomfort in daily activities. Kashtartava is not separately described as disease in Ayurveda classics but explained as symptoms under yonivyapada. Vitiated Vata dosha creates obstruction in function of subtypes of Vata dosha. It vitiates Rasa Dhatu and Artavavaha srotasa (Reproductive system). Apana vayu moves in upward direction influence menstrual bleeding by causing pain. Painful Menstruation which is sufficient to incapacitate day to day activities is termed as Dysmenorrhoea. It is classified as Primary and Secondary Dysmenorrhea. In Ayurveda classical texts internal medicines, Panchakarma and pathya-apthya are advised in context of Kashtartava. Ayurveda recommended Ritucharya and Dincharya, dietary modulations to avoid diseases and saty healthy. Various Asana, pranayama and meditation are explained in Yoga texts in the context of dysmenorrhea. We can also alleviate dysmenorrhea by supporting therapies and medicines. This study is a short review. Further detailed review comprising views of different classical texts and journal articles is needed to explore the concept well so that to open new angles for clinical research.