---

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can be simple or complex and affect women of all ages, though they are most common during the childbearing years. Most ovarian cysts are harmless as they are functional. Some may be classified as complex and require further evaluation.

Common symptoms of an ovarian cyst include abnormal uterine bleeding, pain or heaviness in the abdomen or pelvis, fatigue, headache, and nausea. While many women experience only mild discomfort or remain asymptomatic, others may develop more pronounced symptoms, especially if the cyst is large or associated with an underlying condition.

Conventional treatment options include hormonal therapy, such as combined oral contraceptive pills, and surgical procedures like laparotomy and laparoscopy. However, these treatments have limitations and potential side effects. Hormonal therapy may cause nausea, weight gain, mood swings, etc., while surgical interventions carry risks such as recurrence and procedural complications.

As per Ayurveda, an ovarian cyst may be correlated with Kaphaja Granthi or nodular swelling due to the dominance of Kapha dosha. The treatment modalities include palliative treatment and bio-cleansing therapy. These approaches are tailored to the individual’s constitution and the specific characteristics of the cyst.

On a general basis, Kanchanara guggulu (500 mg) twice after food; Gokshuradi guggulu (250 mg) twice after food; Varunadi kashaya (20 mL) twice before food; and Punarnavasava (20 mL) with 20 mL of water twice a day after food is recommended. The patient is also advised to take fibre-rich food such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, and iron-rich food such as dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, beans, nuts, seeds etc.

Kanchanara and Guggulu enhance digestion and metabolism, pacify vitiated Vata-Kapha and reduce inflammation, thus getting rid of the cardinal symptoms of cysts. Owing to the bitter and astringent tastes, along with the light and dry qualities of the formulation, it alleviates Kapha dosha which is responsible for the formation of cysts. The anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties of Kanchanara support its beneficial role in the dissolution of cyst formation, while Guggulu is an immunomodulator that contributes to the relief of pain and reduction of cysts.

Varunadi kashaya has antioxidant properties, anti-lipase activity as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Punarnavasava has anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, antipyretic, and antiulcer activity justifying its significant role in inflammatory conditions. Gokshuradi guggulu is a herbal formulation that has a beneficial role in the derangement of urinary tracts. Gokshura, one of the key ingredients of the formulation, has proven efficacy in improvements of histological features of the ovary and uterus, as well as in the well-functioning of normal ovaries.

Marked relief in the symptoms and complete absence of cyst within three months of management is observed in normal cases. Thus, Ayurveda comes as a better alternative to hormonal therapy and surgery in cases of septated ovarian cysts. As surgical removal of the cyst is usually followed by relapses of the symptoms and formation of cysts, Ayurveda therapy plays a significant role in its long-term cure.

---

Related Articles

When the skin erupts – Ayurveda for Psoriasis

Stress, the silent killer

Breath well with Shvasan Kriya

Cure Diabetes with Ayurveda

Ayurvedic treatment for Varicose Veins

Ayurvedic Treatments for Jaundice