All About Endometriosis and its Natural Treatment

Abstract

Many things are normalised in our culture under the golf sized umbrella with the label female problems. Yes it is true that there are certain problems which are typically faced by females and there are some problems which are confined to males only. Both genders suffer equally but by default women being women suffer more. As they are women, they are bound to give birth, if a male marries then his wife should be beautiful and must have the perfect reproduction system. Sounds old school but still that’s the mentality of people till now. This article is about one such condition labelled under the female problems, it’s Endometriosis. Many celebrities like Daisy Ridley are suffering from Endometriosis and also have shared their journeys or their experiences regarding the same. The article has all necessary information regarding Endometriosis and also has details about some Ayurvedic formulation which can definitely help in endometriosis.

Key points about Endometriosis

1. The presence of a functioning endometrium in sites other than uterine mucosa is called endometriosis.
2. The incidence is about ten percent amongst gynaecological laparotomy The commonest peritoneal site is ovary followed by pouch of  douglas and uterosacral ligament.
3. Any type of abdominal scar is the commonest site of endometriosis followed by hysterectomy, caesarean section, tubectomy or myomectomy.
4. The disease is full of theories and one single theory can explain endometriosis.
5. About 25% of females do not have any symptoms and generally symptoms are not related to the extent of the lesion.
6. Ayurveda explains endometriosis as a result of excess of kapha dosha.
7. This excess of kapha dosha results in the blockage of microchannels called as sroto avrodh. Sroto Avrodh is the reason for hormonal imbalance as well.
8. Based on this pathogenesis, the treatment is decided in Ayurveda. Instead of being suppressive like  hormonal therapies in modern times, the Ayurvedic treatment is more curative.

Introduction

Endometriosis is a painful disorder in which the tissues that are lining the inside of the uterus grow outside the uterus.it is not a neoplastic condition although cancerous transformation is possible. Endometriosis is also called endometriosis externa. From the last few decades, endometriosis is increasing. The condition is increasing  both in terms of real as well as apparent. Here the real one is due to delayed first conception and adopting a small family norm. On the other hand, an apparent one  is increasing due to the excess of laparoscopy procedures for diagnostic purposes.. Among gynaecologists, there is heightened awareness of the disease complex as well. The incidence of endometriosis is about ten percent amongst gynaecological laparotomies.

Common Sites for Endometriosis

The most common sites for endometriosis are as follows

1. Abdominal
2. Extra abdominal
3. Remote

1. Abdominal Sites of Endometriosis

Endometriosis can occur anywhere but is limited to abdominal structures or organs which are  below the level of umbilicus. The common structures involved in order of frequency are ovary, pouch of douglas, uterosacral ligament, broad ligament, rectovaginal septum, rectum and pelvic lymph nodes. The Most rare sites in the abdomen are gut, appendix, ureter and urinary bladder. The levels of gonadal steroids are much higher in the ovary than in any other peritoneal surface.

2. Extra Abdominal Sites of Endometriosis

Extra abdominal sites of endometriosis include abdominal scar of hysterectomy, tubectomy,  myomectomy and caesarean section, episiotomy scar, umbilicus, vagina and cervix.

3. Remote Sites of Endometriosis

The remote sites are pleura, lungs, deep tissues of arms and thighs.

As mentioned before there are many theories related to pathogenesis of endometriosis. So let’s start discussing these theories one by one.

Theories Related to Pathogenesis of Endometriosis

Retrograde Menstruation (Sampson’s Theory)

1. There is backflow of menstrual blood through uterine tubes during menstruation. This results in the implantation of endometrial fragments in the peritoneal surface of the pelvic organs.
2. Subsequently, cyclic growth and shedding of the endometrium at the ectopic sites occur under the influence of endogenous ovarian hormone.
3. The theory explains pelvic endometriosis but rest it fails to explain.

Coelomic Metaplasia (Meyer and Ivanoff)

When there is a chronic irritation of pelvic peritoneum due to menstrual blood then it can cause coelomic metaplasia. This coelomic metaplasia results in endometriosis. In addition, mullerian tissue entrapment may be present within the peritoneum. After this metaplasia takes place and is transformed into endometrium. This can explain the endometriosis of the abdominal viscera, the rectovaginal septum and umbilicus.

Direct Implantation

This theory states that the endometrium or decidual tissue starts to grow when it is implanted at new sites. The sites are abdominal scars following hysterectomy, Caesarean section, tubectomy and myomectomy. Endometriosis at the episiotomy scar, vaginal or cervical site can also be explained with the theory. This theory however fails to clarify endometriosis at sites other than mentioned.

Lymphatic Theory (Halban)

Normal endometrium can  metastasize to the pelvic lymph nodes as well. This is through the draining lymphatic channels present in the uterus. This theory can explain how lymph nodes are involved.

Vascular Theory

This sounds at least to explain the endometriosis at distant sites such as lungs, arms or thighs.

Genetic and Immunological Factors

The genetic accounts for less than 10 percent of the cases. There is increased incidence of endometriosis in first relatives. However, local cellular immunity defects  can also be responsible for ectopic tissue growth in abnormal sites.

Thus this certainly explains that not all cases of endometriosis can be explained by just one theory. The movement of uterus inner lining that is endometrium to various sites is through various routes not just one route.

Pathology of Endometriosis

The Most General Considerations Include

The endometrium (glands and stroma) in the ectopic sites potentially undergoes changes under the command of ovarian hormones.

1. There are two phases: proliferative and secretory. The endometrium on the ectopic sites lacks secretory phase mostly but proliferative changes are generally seen. It can happen due to deficiency of steroid receptors in ectopic endometrium.
2. Cyclic growth and shedding is observed till menopause. The periodic shed can remain encysted. In advance, the cyst may become tense and ruptures. Here  the blood causes irritation, creating a dense tissue which surrounds the lesion with fibrosis. If it continues to occur on pelvic peritoneum, it successfully produces adhesions along with puckering of peritoneum.
3. In case if it is encysted, then the cyst will enlarge and hence cyclic bleeding will be there. Then the serum gets absorbed in between the menses and the content inside is now of chocolate colour. Thus the cyst is called a chocolate cyst.

Now symptoms of pelvic Endometriosis

Symptoms of Pelvic Endometriosis

The Patent will age Between 30-45 years of age

1. Patients are nulliparous (not having any child) or with one or two children many years prior to appearance of symptoms.
2. In many cases, there will be no symptoms and diagnosed accidently while  a regular checkup. On the other hand there may be intense symptoms with mild endometriosis.
3. Dysmenorrhoea, which is the pain during periods or before the cycle starts. The secondary dysmenorrhea is increasing progressively and results in pain which as mentioned before starts a few days prior to menstruation. (50%)
4. Abnormal menstruation or menorrhagia is a predominal abnormality. (60%).
5. Infertility is the next symptom. The endometriosis can cause infertility or vice versa that is infertility can cause endometriosis.
6. The pain during sex is also quite common.
7. Pelvic pain or pelvic discomfort is also very common
8. Other symptoms can be according to the site of endometriosis: like if in bladder then blood with urine can be present, sigmoid colon and rectum if affected then painful defecation along with blood with stools or melena that is balck tarry stools.

Diagnosis of Endometriosis

1. The physical clues for endometriosis include pelvic examination
2. The ultrasound is also done. It usually gives a clear appearance of pelvic endometriosis and suggests bulky uterus, bulky ovaries and cysts as well.
3. MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)  shows endometrial growth on pelvic organs.
4. Biopsy is also done so as to rule out malignancy (Cancer).
5. Cancer markers like CA 125 are also done. It is a blood based test.

Treatment of Endometriosis in Modern Science

The treatment of endometriosis includes watchful waiting at first. This is done to rule out whether it is increasing or it is just confined to one site. If increasing, then mostly hormonal therapies are given.
In case of severity of symptoms like excessive bleeding, pain during and after menses etc. Your doctor might recommend laparoscopic surgery. The laparoscopic surgery may include laparoscopic removal of uterus as well, which is called laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Now we will be discussing the Ayurvedic aspect of endometriosis in detail.

Ayurvedic Approach Towards Endometriosis

Modern science explains that there is a movement in the endometrial tissue from its site to variable sites. Regarding this Ayurveda explains that

This means that pitta dosha (thermal body energy), kapha dosha (potential energy), mala (bodily waste) along with dhatu (bodily tissues or fluids) are cripple means they can not move on their own. ,

But Vayu (kinetic energy) is able to move on its own and also move other bodily fluids and dosha along with it like the clouds move on their own from here to there carrying the rain water.

This Explains Two Theories Here

1. If there is aggravation of vata dosha due to vata vardhak nidana (factors responsible for accelerating the kinetic energy of the body) then this will result in the displacement of kapha dosha and pitta dosha from their places. Unwanted movement of bodily fluids will also be noticed.
2. The second theory explains that if there is obstruction in the passage of vata dosha like in case of srotas blockage due to aggravated kapha dosha or endotoxin or ama, even then vishma gati of vata dosha will happen and thus will result in aforementioned.

Factors Responsible for Dosha Aggravation

1. The vata prakopa or aggravation of vata energy happens due to the intake of excessive dry, light, bitter and astringent tasting food articles. Other factors responsible are exercising more than your body’s limit, sleeping late at night or not sleeping at all, stress, fear and many more.
2. The aggravation of kapha is due to the sedentary lifestyle, eating heavy, oily, cheesy- greasy food articles and not doing any physical work at all.

Now, the next question arises: is there any involvement of pitta dosha in this scenario? If Yes!!! then  what has to be done?

Yes, the pitta dosha is involved, not directly but indirectly. As blocked srotas due to kapha dosha creates obstruction in pitta dosha marga and accelerated vata dosha results in the disturbance in the working of pitta dosha. That’s why hormonal  disturbances are also involved as pitta controls all the hormonal channels in the body.

1. The Ayurveda suggests that if there is obstruction in the path of vata then that obstruction is to be removed.
2. On the other hand, if the condition is the result of vata dosha aggravation primarily then vata shamak chikitsa is done along with digestion of ama dosha in the body.
3. In both of the cases deepan pachan formulations are given (digestive and carminative herbs) along with certain herbs that help in the anulomana of vata dosha. In case of kapha aggravation certain kapha anulomana home remedies can also be explained to the patients.

Herbal Remedies by Planet Ayurveda for Endometriosis

Planet Ayurveda is a leading Ayurvedic products manufacturing company who has its resellers around the world. The products prepared by Planet Ayurveda are totally herbal and are prepared under the strict guidance and observation of MD Ayurveda experts. Moreover, the formulations by Planet Ayurveda have pure extract of herbs and give magnificent results. The formulations are in the form of liquids, tablets, capsules, jams and powders. These can be given to humans of any age group. In case of Endometriosis following preparations are offered by Planet Ayurveda:

1. 1. FEMALE HEALTH SUPPORT
   2. BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN
   3. ALOE VITALS
   4. PRADRANTAK CHURNA
   5. SHATAVARI CAPSULES

Product Description

1. FEMALE HEALTH SUPPORT

Female health support, as its name suggests, helps in supporting the entire female health, especially reproductive health. The formulation has three ingredients that are Ashok (Saraca indica), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus). The product is very effective in balancing the  female hormones by balancing the pitta dosha in the body and is also used in varying gynaecological problems as well. The female health support works by supporting the reproductive system of females and enhances its ability to function. In case of endometriosis, the female health support can be given in reproductive as well as menopausal females. The product is known to give really effective results.

Dosage: One capsule twice a day after meals with lukewarm water.

2. BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN

Boswellia curcumin is one of the patent formulations of Planet Ayurveda. The composition consists of only two ingredients : shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and haridra (Curcuma longa). These two herbs have a very amazing effect in management of pain present in the endometriosis. Boswellia curcumin also shows very impressive effects on anulomana of vata dosha. Shallaki and haridra are known for their countless other properties as well and helps in enhancing the process of healing too. Haridra in this formulation has a good effect in eliminating toxins from the body and also has its effect on enhancing digestion. The formulation works fantastically in this situation and gives desirable results.

Dosage: One capsule twice a day after meals with lukewarm water.

3. ALOE VITALS

Aloe vitals capsules are in the form of capsules and are a very great formulation that can help in various health disorders. The aloe vitals capsules have only aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) as their only ingredient. Naturally aloe vera helps in the reduction of inflammation and also helps in recovery or healing. But it is also known for the supporting effect it gives to the female reproductive system. It clears out the female reproductive system from outside as well as from inside aloe vera also helps in the removing blockage from the micro channels of the body.  Ayurveda explains that healthy digestion is equal to a healthy body. That’s why aloe vitals are a way to maintain all over body health.

Dosage: One capsule twice a day after meals with lukewarm water.

4. PRADRANTAK CHURNA

Pradrantak churna is a herbal formulation that contains lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), ashoka (Saraca indica), udumbr (Ficus glomerata) and arjuna (Terminalia arjuna). There is a slight modification of the classic mentioned pushyanug churna. The formulation is excellent for balancing female hormones as well as helps in removal of excessive endometrial growths in the female reproductive system. It also works on the extra reproductive endometrial metastasis as well.  Lodhra in this combination is very effective in regulating and relaxing uterine walls  as well as endometrial tissues. The churna helps in prolonged menstrual bleeding in endometriosis, keeps the uterus clean and balances the doshas as well. The ingredients also help in opening the blocked microchannels (if any). In addition, this formulation has a fantastic effect in supporting the entire female reproductive system, both internally and externally.

Dosage: Half teaspoon twice a day after meals with lukewarm water

5. SHATAVARI CAPSULES

The shatavari capsules are one of the most successful formulations of Planet Ayurveda. The shatavari capsules are single herb capsules that have shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) as its only ingredient. The formulation has very impressive results in balancing the all over hormonal system inside the body of a female. Though the herb has cold potency yet it pacifies vata dosha whose disbalance is the major cause for endometriosis. Moreover, shatavari as a herb is described for long term productivity and sexual well being in ayurveda in aspect of females. This formulations helps in coping with the pain felt while having sex, manages bleeding in menses and keeps a female energetic by managing the pituitary functioning.

Dosage: One capsule twice a day after meals with lukewarm water

Conclusion

Endometriosis is a very challenging situation for women even for celebrities like Daisy Ridley. It feels like you are carrying the weight of something that should not be there. Endometriosis is a tough situation in which the female has to suffer alone and sometimes the condition is severely painful. Though in many cases there are no symptoms and females feel completely fine. She doesn’t even know that she is having something so unusual inside of her. But don’t worry Planet Ayurveda’s medication will definitely help you in Endometriosis. As these formulations are totally herbal and free from additives they Give fantastic results.