ROLE OF SHODHANA KARMA IN INFERTILITY: AN AYURVEDIC AND EVIDENCE-BASED REVIEW
Introduction: Infertility, affecting nearly 10–15% of reproductive-age couples worldwide, is considered a growing public health concern. In Ayurveda, Vandhyatva is described as inability to conceive due to vitiation of doshas, defective shukra and aartava, or improper functioning of garbhasambhava samagri. Shodhana Karma (biopurification therapy) is advocated to eliminate dosha dushti, restore reproductive balance, and prepare the body for conception. Methods: A comprehensive review of classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Bhavaprakasha), and indexed databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AYUSH Research Portal) from 1990–2025 was undertaken. Studies on Panchakarma interventions (Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Uttarbasti, Nasya) in infertility and related gynecological conditions were included. Both clinical trials and conceptual studies were reviewed. Results: Ayurvedic classics emphasize Shodhana prior to Shamana in infertility, especially Virechana for pitta dushti, Basti for vata vyadhi, and Uttarbasti for yoniroga. Contemporary evidence supports Panchakarma in enhancing endometrial receptivity, improving ovulation, reducing PCOS symptoms, and managing tubal blockage. Clinical trials highlight significant outcomes with Virechana and Uttarbasti in unexplained infertility and female subfertility. Discussion: Shodhana Karma acts via detoxification, hormonal regulation, improved ovarian function, correction of endometrial environment, and modulation of stress pathways. Though promising, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, lack of standardized protocols, and insufficient long-term follow-up. Conclusion: Shodhana Karma, especially when tailored to dosha prakriti and combined with rasayana therapy, has a significant role in infertility management. Rigorous, large-scale clinical trials integrating modern diagnostic tools with Ayurvedic interventions are warranted to establish reproducibility and global acceptance.
KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Basti, Infertility, Panchakarma, Shodhana Karma