E-ISSN:2456-3110

Case Report

Uterine Fibroids

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 5 MAY
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

Holistic Healing: Ayurvedic approaches to manage Uterine Fibroids - A Case Study

Bhawsar N1*, Panda JK2, Tanwar S3
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.5.52

1* Nidhi Bhawsar, Post Graduate Scholar, Dept of Prasuti Tantra Evam Stree Roga, Institute for Ayurved Studies and Research, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India.

2 Jitesh Kumar Panda, Professor and Chairperson, Dept of Prasuti Tantra Evam Stree Roga, Institute for Ayurved Studies and Research, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India.

3 Suniti Tanwar, Professor, Dept of Prasuti Tantra Evam Stree Roga, Institute for Ayurved Studies and Research, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India.

Uterine fibroids are the most frequent solid benign tumors among women of reproductive age. Symptoms of uterine fibroids adversely affect physical and social functioning, women's health-related quality of life, and productivity at work. A 43 year old female patient visited the outpatient department with menorrhagia and low back pain complaints. Ultrasound scan showed intramural fibroid in anterior wall and posterior wall of Uterus. Hysterectomy for the same was advised; but the patient refused to undergo the surgery and was looking for non-hormonal therapy. She was treated following the Ayurvedic line of treatment of Asrugdara and Granthi which is linked to Menorrhagia (presenting complaint). She was given Trayamanadi Kashay, Manjishtha Tablet, Capsule posex forte, Chandraprabha Vati, Ashokarishta, from Outpatient department. Treatment was extended for 3 months with a follow up once in 15days and a repeat scan showed shrinking size of the fibroid and relief in symptoms. A follow-up scan also showed the disappearance of the fibroids. Throughout the period of treatment patient has not complained of any adverse effects with regard to the advancement of disease nor with respect to the medications. An effort has been made to discuss the successful treatment of fibroid with non-hormonal medications in a mid-forties patient. This article aims to inspire confidence among Ayurveda practitioners about the safe, noninvasive, non-hormonal cost-effective treatment of fibroids by Ayurvedic management.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Asrugdara, Granthi, uterine fibroid, Trayamanadi Kashay, Menorrhagia

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Nidhi Bhawsar, Post Graduate Scholar, Dept of Prasuti Tantra Evam Stree Roga, Institute for Ayurved Studies and Research, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India.
Email: 		Bhawsar N, Panda JK, Tanwar S, Holistic Healing: Ayurvedic approaches to manage Uterine Fibroids - A Case Study. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(5):331-336.
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https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4372/

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2025-04-11 2025-04-26 2025-05-06 2025-05-16 2025-05-26
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None Nil Not required 11.32

© 2025by Bhawsar N, Panda JK, Tanwar S and Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

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Nidhi B et al. Ayurvedic approaches to manage Uterine Fibroids

Introduction

Fibroids occur in 20-40% of women during reproductive age and 11-19% in perimenopausal age.[1] They are clinically apparent in up to 25% of women and cause significant morbidity, including prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure or pain, and, in rare cases, reproductive dysfunction.[2]

Women experience distress and impaired work productivity due to fibroid. There are many women undiagnosed with significant symptoms emphasizing the need for improved awareness and management of fibroids.[3]

Uterine myomas have been classified according to their general uterine position: submucous, intramural, and subserosal. Intramural fibroids are located within the wall of the uterus and are the most common type; unless they may be asymptomatic. Though the exact cause of intramural fibroids is unknown, it is believed that fibroids develop from an abnormal muscle cell in the middle layer of the uterine wall. It rapidly multiplies and forms a tumor being influenced by estrogen.[4]

The condition of uterine fibroid is similar to Garbhashayagata Granthi, mentioned in Ayurveda with vitiated Vata affecting Mamsa (muscle tissue), Rakta (blood) and Medas (fat) mixed with Kapha producing rounded, protuberant, knotty and hard swelling. Fibroids can be related to the “Granthi” mentioned in Ayurvedic texts, and it can be managed according to the principle of Samprapti Vighatana (to break the pathogenesis).[5]

Case Study

A 43 year old female patient, a home maker, reported to the outpatient department of Prasuti Tanta evum Stree Roga, Institute for Ayurved Studies and Research on 02/09/24 with complaints of pain in lower abdomen and painful heavy menstrual bleeding since 2 years. She gave a history of regular, heavy flow for 7 to 8 days during each menstrual cycle. She was para 1, non-vegetarian & had a less active lifestyle. She was diagnosed as having Fibroid from the prior reports and was advised hysterectomy. No other systemic complaints or family history related to this condition were significant. Past history seems to be insignificant.

Clinical Findings

General Examination

Temperature - 98°F
Pulse rate - 76/min
Blood pressure - 120/70mmHg

Systemic Examination

The systemic examination showed no abnormalities in respiratory, cardiovascular and central nervous systems.

But the symptoms caused disturbed sleep and made the patient anxious.

Ashthavidha Pariksha

Nadi - Sarpavata
Mala - Drida, Shushka
Mutra - Pandu Varna
Jivha - Shweta,Uplipta
Shabda - Guru Swara
Sparsha - Adra Sparsha
Drik - Jalapurna Snigdha
Akruti - Sama Akruti

Dashavidha Pariksha

Prakriti - Vatapittaja (Dwandaja)
Vikriti - Vatkaphaja (Madhyam Bala Vyadhi)
Sara - Raktasara
Samhanana - Madhyam
Pramana - Sama
Satmya - Madhyam
Satva - Madhyam
Vaya - Madhyam
Vyayamshakti - Avara
Aharshakti - Madhyam

Gynaecological/Obstetrical History

Past menstrual history - Regular 30 days cycle with 5-6 days of bleeding. 2 pads/day were used.

Present menstrual history - Regular 22-25 days cycle with 7-8 days of bleeding. 3-4 pads/ day were used. Sometimes clots were seen on pads.

Obstetrical History

P1L1 A0 = P1 L1 (male child 21 years FTNVD).

Per Abdominal Examination-

The abdomen is soft, non-tender and no organomegaly was found.


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Investigation

Ultrasonography of abdomen and pelvis was suggestive of bulky uterus (100*54*64mm) with volume about 183cc. Intramural fibroids of size 13*9mm in anterior wall and 11*13mm in posterior wall. Endometrium thickness measuring 10.9 mm.

Hb - 13.3 gm/dL
CRP - 2.1mg/dL
RBS - 77mg/dL
Thyroid profile - Normal
CA-125 - 24.40 U/mL

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of intrauterine encapsulated growth or Garbhashayagata Granthi (intrauterine fibroid) was made based on the clinical characteristics and the result of the ultrasound scan. Based on the symptoms and fibroid, it was treated.

Etiopathogenesis

The Nidana (etiological factors) of Shopha, like the intake of Gramya Mamsa, Ajeerna Ahara, and Diwaswapna along with Dushta Bhojana, Dushta Arthava, Beeja Dosha, and Daivta are also causative factors for Granthi. Dustha Bhojana, including Guru Abhishyandhi Bhojan that vitiate Mamsa and Medo Dhatu along with Mithya Viharas like Divaswapna, Avyayama, etc., lead to Agni Vaishamya and Sroto Vaigunya. Varying types of chromosomal abnormalities like deletion, trisomy, and translocation associated with fibroids signify Beeja Dushti. This vitiates Vata, Pitta, Kapha Doshas along with Mamsa, Rakta, and Meda, then produces rounded, protuberant, knotty, and hard swelling called Granthi. Granthi considered as Mamsapradoshaja Vyadhi.[6]

Samprapti Ghataka

  • Dosha - Vata Kapha predominant tridoshika vyadhi
  • Dushya - Mamsa, Rakta, Meda
  • Agni - Dhatwagni
  • Srotas - Rasavaha, Raktavaha, Mamsavaha, Medovaha and Artavavaha srotas
  • Sroto Dushti - Sroto sanga
  • Udbhavasthana - Garbhashaya, Pakwashayottha vyadhi
  • Rogmarga - Abhyantara

  • Swabhava - Chirkari
  • Sadhyasadhyata - Yapya Vyadhi[7]

Therapeutic Intervention

The following medications were used during the course of the three-month treatment. The patient was instructed to adhere to Pathya-Apathya at this time. Following therapy, the ultrasound scan report on December 26, 2024, revealed that the uterus was free of fibroid. The patient was given the following treatment plan (Table 1).

Table 1: Treatment plan

SNMedicinesDoseTime of administration
1.Trayamanadi Kashay20ml BDBefore food with equal water
2.Tab. Kanchnar Guggulu250mg; 2 Tab. BDAfter food with water
3.Capsule Posex forte125mg TDSAfter food with water
4.Tab. Manjistha250mg BDAfter Breakfast with water
5.Hingwashtak Churna3gm; BDPratham Kawal with Ghrita
6.Tab. Chandraprabha Vati250mg; BDAfter food with luke warm water

Table 2: Pre-and post-treatment, modifications in both subjective and objective criteria

Subjective criteriaPre treatmentPost treatment
Heavy menstrual flowPresentAbsent
Pain during menstruationPresentAbsent
ConstipationPresentAbsent
Objective Criteria
Size of fibroid13*9 in anterior wall
11*13mm in posterior wall		No fibroid
Endometrial Thickness10.9mm7.5mm
Time lineSept 2024Dec 2024

jaims_4372_01.JPG
Image 1: Before Treatment


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jaims_4372_02.JPG
Image 2: After Treatment

Discussion

Mode of Action of Drugs

Nidana Parivarjana, or the removal of etiological factors, is something that Acharya Susruta laid stress on as being of prime importance in the treatment of disease. Abstinence from indulgence in Ahara and Vihara, which vitiate Vata, Kapha Doshas, Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda Dhatu, and Artava updhatu is recommended in the case of intramural uterine fibroids. Granthi is believed to be caused by vitiation of Vata and Kapha, Mandagni and Ama. Langhana and Deepana - Pachana Dravyas can be given. Treatment should aim to augment Agni and Vatanulomana. Dushita Dhatus like Rakta, Mamsa, and Medas need to be addressed as well. Medo-Dushti can be treated with Sthoulya Chikitsa.[6] To lessen the size of a fibroid, one can use Kapha Vatahara medications, Tikshna, Ushna, Vatanulomana, Shothaghna, Kledaghna, Lekhana, and Chedana. This formulation, known as Kanchanara Guggulu, is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for accumulations of Kapha in the tissues. Deeper in the system,

Kapha might appear as growths, cysts, or enlarged lymph nodes. To break down and eliminate hardened Kapha, powerful decongestants like Trikatu, Triphala and build-up of Kapha by promoting the healthy operation of the digestive and lymphatic drainage systems and aids in the removal of inflammatory toxins.[7]

Trayamandi Kashay is a classical Ayurvedic formulation primarily mentioned in Sahastrayoga is indicated in Kapha-Pitta predominant disorders and Granthi like conditions. In the contexts of uterine fibroids which are primarily Kapha-Meda vitiated disorders the formulation acts through its Deepana-Pachan, Lekhan and Shodhan properties. Key ingredients like Traymana, Musta, Katuki, Daruharidra, Vacha contribute inflammatory and probable anti-proliferative actions, which may alleviate associated symptoms such as menorrhagia and pelvic discomfort.[8]

Tablet Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) is a well-known herb in Ayurveda, recognized for its potent Raktashodhaka and Raktastambhaka properties. It plays a vital role by acting on Rakta Dhatu and supporting Pitta-Kapha balance which are often involved in fibroid pathology. Its inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-proliferative activities help reduce inflammation, its Stambhana property aids in regulating excessive menstrual bleeding.[9]

For both dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia, Ashokarishta works well. Gynaecological issues such as menstrual pain, uterine inflammation, menorrhagia, metrorrhagia, uterine bleeding disorders, and cystitis are advised for the use of Ashokarishta. It has a particular effect on the uterine mucosa; it lessens and regulates the excessive inflammation brought on by Pitta, thus bringing Vata into balance. It contains anti-secretory, haemostatic anti-inflammatory, and blood purifying properties. It is very helpful in treating excessive monthly flow, uterine cysts, uterine polyps, hormonal imbalances, and severe uterine bleeding.[10]

Posex Forte Capsule is an Ayurvedic formulation comprising a blend of herbal and mineral ingredients known for their hemostatic and astringent properties. Key components include Chandrakala Rasa which is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for managing bleeding disorders.


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Daruharidra (Berberis aristata) employed in treating menorrhagia and leucorrhea; it also helps alleviate spasmodic abdominal pain. Ingredients like Nagakeshara and Sphatika possess astringent properties that help constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing excessive menstrual bleeding. Guggulu and Daruharidra exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, potentially alleviating pelvic pain and discomfort associated with fibroids. Raktabala and Mocharasa contribute to uterine health by promoting tissue repair and maintaining the integrity of the uterine lining. The synergistic effect of the herbal components may assist in regulating hormonal imbalances that contribute to eradication of fibroid development and growth.[11]

According to Dosha - Chandrapabha Vati is mainly Tridoshaja more commonly Vatakapha Shamaka in nature According to Dhatu - On analyzing the indications and properties this Vati acts on Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Medas, Asthi, Majja, Shukra Dhatus. The drugs like Trivrit, Pippalimoola, Guggulu, Yavakshara relieve anxiety & pain. Drugs having anti-inflammatory properties are Karpoora, Musta, Devadaru, Guggulu, Triphala, Ela, Shilajatu & Makshika Bhasma help in reducing the pain.[12] As it contains Loha Bhasma and Shilajatu it helps in increasing the Bala and reduce fatigue and general debility. It is recommended for genitourinary illnesses such as Artava Ruja and Striroga. Its primary ingredients, Guggulu and Shilajatu (bitumen), provide a scraping effect that aids in the elimination of fibroids. The hematopoietic component is balanced by the use of Lohabhasma (ferrous compound) and Makshika Bhasma (copper pyrite).[13]

Hingawashtaka Churna, a polyherbal powder Pachan, Agnideepan, and Vata Anulomana are properties that it possess. It is particularly helpful in gaseous distension, or Apan Vayu Dushti, notable improvement in the symptoms of Gulma, Shula (abdominal discomfort), and Agnimandya.[14]

Conclusion

The Ayurvedic approach to managing uterine fibroids provides a comprehensive and integrative framework that aligns with the principles of holistic health. By utilizing lifestyle medicines such as herbal formulations and Rasayanas, Ayurveda works to balance Doshas and address the underlying imbalances contributing to fibroid development.

Alongside medicinal interventions, Paricharyas, including daily routines (Dinacharya), seasonal regimens (Ritucharya), and specialized therapeutic practices, play a critical role in detoxifying the body, enhancing immunity, and promoting overall harmony. This synergy between natural remedies and structured routines exemplifies the profound wisdom of Ayurvedic practices. Furthermore, the emphasis on individualized treatment plans reflects Ayurveda's adaptability to diverse patient needs, offering customized solutions that consider physical, mental, and emotional well-being. With growing interest in integrative medicine, Ayurveda stands as a complementary path that not only targets fibroid symptoms but also fosters long-term wellness. Continued research and collaboration between traditional and modern medical systems can pave the way for innovative, safe, and accessible fibroid treatments. As we move forward, embracing Ayurvedic principles may inspire a transformative shift in women's healthcare, bridging ancient knowledge with contemporary advancements.

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