Āyurvedic Management of Post-Menopausal Osteoporosis (Rajo-nivṛtti Janya Asthi-kṣaya): Clinical and Pharmacological Perspectives

Abstract

Introduction: Rajo-nivṛtti signifies the natural cessation of the menstrual cycle, most often occurring around the age of 50. It marks a phase of vāta predominance. During this phase, degeneration occurs, with asthi dhātu kṣaya (bone depletion) becoming particularly prominent. This condition correlates with post-menopausal osteoporosis in modern medicine, characterized by reduced bone density due to cessation of hormones like estrogen, which can lead to complications such as fractures. Understanding of Rajo-nivṛtti janya Asthi-kṣaya involves focusing on the āśrayī–āśraya bhāva between vāta and asthi — asthi is the āśraya and vāta is the āśrayī. When the āśraya is damaged, the āśrayī is also impaired, and vice versa. The role of pṛthvī, agni, and vāyu mahābhūta in asthi dhātu formation, along with the application of sāmānya–viśeṣa siddhānta (sāmānya causes vṛddhi and viśeṣa causes kṣaya) in its pathogenesis and management, is the prime focus. This article explores the understanding and management of Rajo-nivṛtti janya Asthi-kṣaya.

Objectives – This article aims to:

1. Understand Rajo-nivṛtti janya Asthi-kṣaya from Āyurveda principles.
2. Explore post-menopausal osteoporosis from a modern medical perspective.
3. Correlate the two conditions.
4. Evaluate effective Āyurveda management, including śamana, basti, and rasāyaṇa therapies.

Methodology – A literary review of Āyurveda perspectives from different saṃhitā texts, along with modern reviews from gynecology textbooks and peer-reviewed journals, was conducted.

Conclusion – An integrative approach incorporating internal medications, external therapies, rasāyaṇa (rejuvenation), and lifestyle modifications is presented as a safe and constitutionally aligned strategy for long-term management.