Become A Member

Introduction: Shweta Pradara, commonly referred to as leucorrhea, is a prevalent gynecological condition characterized by abnormal vaginal discharge, often associated with weakness, burning sensation, and pelvic discomfort. In Ayurveda, it is described under Pradara or Stri Roga and attributed primarily to vitiation of Kapha and Pitta doshas along with Shukra dhatu imbalance. Traditional management emphasizes dietary regulation, herbal therapies, Panchakarma procedures, and Rasayana interventions to restore dosha balance and reproductive health. Modern medicine recognizes leucorrhea as a symptom of infections, hormonal imbalance, or systemic illness, and typically prescribes antibiotics or hormonal therapy. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar (2000–2025), using keywords such as “Shweta Pradara,” “Leucorrhea,” “Ayurveda,” “Panchakarma,” and “herbal therapy.” Classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya were reviewed. Inclusion criteria comprised clinical trials, case studies, systematic reviews, and experimental research evaluating Ayurvedic interventions for leucorrhea. Exclusion criteria included anecdotal reports and non-peer-reviewed literature. Results: Classical Ayurvedic references describe Shweta Pradara management using Shodhana (bio-purification), Shamana (palliative therapy), herbal formulations like Chandraprabha vati, Triphala churna, and topical decoctions, and lifestyle modifications. Modern studies indicate efficacy of these herbal interventions in reducing discharge, inflammation, and associated symptoms, with minimal adverse effects. Panchakarma therapies such as Virechana (therapeutic purgation) and Basti (medicated enema) have also shown benefit in managing dosha imbalance contributing to leucorrhea. Discussion: Integrating traditional Ayurvedic approaches with modern pharmacological understanding highlights the potential of holistic management strategies. While preclinical and clinical evidence supports safety and efficacy, large-scale randomized trials are limited. Further research is needed to standardize formulations, optimize dosing, and validate outcomes. Conclusion: Ayurvedic management of Shweta Pradara offers a safe, holistic, and potentially effective approach, emphasizing dosha balance, reproductive health, and symptomatic relief. Integration with contemporary gynecological care may improve patient outcomes and reduce recurrence rates.

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, herbal therapy, leucorrhea, Shweta Pradara, Panchakarma