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  2. Volume 2 I Issue 1 [January to March]
  3. MANAGEMENT OF VANDHYATVA (FEMALE INFERTILITY) THROUGH AYURVEDA: A SCIENTIFIC REVIEW
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Dr. Jalpa Gandhi

MANAGEMENT OF VANDHYATVA (FEMALE INFERTILITY) THROUGH AYURVEDA: A SCIENTIFIC REVIEW

Introduction: Infertility is a growing global health concern, affecting approximately 15% of reproductive-age couples. In Ayurveda, female infertility is described as Vandhyatva, arising from imbalances in doshas, impairment of dhatus (tissues), and derangement of artavavaha srotas (reproductive channels). Beeja (ovum), kshetra (uterus), rutu (fertile period), and ambu (nutritive fluids) are essential factors in conception, and disruption of any leads to infertility. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using Ayurvedic classical texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya), commentaries, and modern scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AYUSH Research Portal). Peer-reviewed articles, clinical trials, and pharmacological studies published between 2000–2024 were included. Keywords such as “Vandhyatva,” “Ayurveda and infertility,” “female infertility,” and “herbal management of infertility” were used. Results: Ayurvedic management of Vandhyatva is multifactorial, involving nidana parivarjana (elimination of causative factors), shodhana (purification therapies such as virechana and uttarbasti), and shamana (palliative therapy with herbs like Shatavari, Ashoka, Lodhra, Guduchi, and formulations like Phala Ghrita and Pushpadhanva rasa). Diet and lifestyle modifications, yoga, and stress management also play crucial roles. Modern studies support the phytoestrogenic, antioxidant, adaptogenic, and ovulation-inducing properties of these drugs. Clinical trials demonstrate improved ovulatory cycles, endometrial receptivity, and pregnancy rates with integrative approaches. Discussion: Ayurvedic principles of balancing doshas and restoring dhatus align with modern concepts of hormonal balance, ovarian reserve, and uterine health. While preliminary clinical studies are encouraging, large-scale, randomized controlled trials are lacking. Integrative research can bridge traditional wisdom with evidence-based practice. Conclusion: Ayurveda offers a holistic, individualized, and safe approach for managing female infertility. Its emphasis on purification, rejuvenation, and lifestyle corrections, supported by emerging scientific evidence, highlights its potential as an adjunct or alternative in infertility care.

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Female infertility, Rasayana, Vandhyatva, Yoga