Ayurvedic Ways of Treating The Disgusting Dysmennorhea

Dysmennorhea is often sickening and agonizing. Severe menstrual pain that comes before or on the onset of cyclical menstrual periods is referred to as Dysmennorhea. It lasts for 1 to 3 days of menses and is often accompanied by vomiting, dizziness, depression, headache, nausea, stress, fatigue and bloating. The discharge of the prostaglandins and oxytocin hormones during menstruation is the basic reason for primary Dysmennorhea. The best way to treat this threatening physical condition is with the use of Ayurvedic treatment that can completely cure Dysmennorhea without any adverse side effects.

It’s nature’s law and the beauty of nature often ends up in gifting all the biological complexities to the most elegant, steel-hearted and the greatest creation in the world, none other than ‘Women’. Generally women scrawl in pain during their regular menstruation and whisper a solid statement that says ‘Why everything for women? Right from menstrual pain to labor pain, why everything for women and nothing for men?’ Young ladies, never curse your creation and love to cherish it as Ayurveda considers human body as a temple and appreciates your individuality.

Blessed are women: Men have higher risks of heart disease than women as the female hormone called estrogen is active till menopause and the impurities in the blood are often discharged during your cyclic menstrual period. You are safe because of your reproductive cycle!

Ayurvedic treatment for Dysmennorhea: Ayurveda has its own magnificence in treating each health condition. It treats Dysmennorhea according to the Vata, Pitta and Kapha body types.

  • Ayurvedic herbs: The science of life suggests the use of effective herbs like Sweet fennel, Lemon balm, Pasque flower and Dong Quai, popularly known as the tonic for assisting the reproductive health of women. It also suggests the use of combination of Aloe vera with black pepper.
  • Ayurvedic essential oils: Using Ayurvedic essential oils with emmenagogue, analgesic and antispasmodic properties are trusted to treat womanly problems like Dysmennorhea, Amenorrhea, Leucorrhea and much more. Few such special essential oils with emmenagogue properties are Clary Sage essential oil, Rosemary essential oil, Angelica essential oil, Lavender essential oil, Juniper essential oil, sweet fennel essential oil, Jasmine essential oil, Myrrh essential oil and Peppermint essential oil can balance your hormones and help alleviate the painful menstrual cramps. Gently massage any of these essential oils or a blend of two or three to calm your nerves and soother your abdominal pains.
  • Yoga asanas: Ayurveda suggests practicing asanas like Padmasana for lessening menstrual pain as it gradually improves blood circulation in the lower part of the body while steadily enhancing metabolism, treating hormonal imbalances and control menstrual pains.

Ayurveda recommends the intake of healthy diet with green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, and food items rich in magnesium like banana, barley, whole grains, broccoli, spinach, artichoke, beans and few others. Drink lot of water to restore the energy levels. Ayurveda also insists on the detoxifying system called Panchakarma that cleanses and removes the toxic substances from your body assisting in improved circulation and stress-free living.

Reference Links:

  1. Painful Menstrual Periods / Dysmennorhea – Symptom Evaluation by Med India
  2. Aging and Heart Disease by Heart Health Women.Org
  3. Angelica Sinensis by Wikipedia
  4. Padmasana and Benefits by answers.myYOG.com

o-Methoxy Cinnamaldehyde

O-methoxy cinnamaldehyde is found in Cinnamon bark oil and Cassia oil. The chemical formula for o-methoxy cinnamaldehyde is C10H10O2. It is also known by the other names such as 2-methoxy cinnamaldehyde, o-methoxy cinnamic aldehyde, Trans-2- Methoxycinnamaldehyde and so on.

Attributes of o-Methoxy cinnamaldehyde:

It appears as light yellow crystals with a distinct spicy aroma.

Therapeutic properties of o-Methoxy Cinnamaldehyde:

The major therapeutic properties of o-Methoxy Cinnamaldehyde are as follows:

Antibiotic effect:

According to the study “Isolation, purification, and antibiotic activity of o-Methoxy Cinnamaldehyde from Cinnamon”, O-Methoxy Cinnamaldehyde obtained from powdered cinnamon completely inhibits the growth and production of toxin of mycotoxin producing fungi.

It suppresses the growth of fungi, namely Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus, Aspergillus versicolor, Aspergillus ochraceus and five dermatophytoses species, for example, Microsporum cannis. O-methoxy cinnamaldehyde exhibit antifungal activity.

Anti-inflammatoryand antioxidant activity:

o- Methoxy cinnamaldehyde possess anti-inflammatory property.

A study titledAnti-inflammatory activity of cinnamon (C. zeylanicum and C. cassia) extracts – identification of E-cinnamaldehyde and o-methoxy cinnamaldehyde as the most potent bioactive compounds” was carried out to investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of the essential oil of Cinnamomum zeylanicum and Cinnamomum cassia and their constituents namely E-cinnamaldehyde and o- Methoxy Cinnamaldehyde.

It was determined that E-cinnamaldehyde and o- Methoxy cinnamaldehyde potentially exhibit anti-inflammatory activity.

A study titled “2-methoxycinnamaldehyde from Cinnamomum Cassia reduces rat myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury in vivo due to HO-1 induction” was conducted to investigate the effects of o-methoxycinnamaldehyde against myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury in rats.

It was concluded that o-Methoxy cinnamaldehyde because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant property offers protection of myocardial injury in rats by Ho-1 induction.

Anticancer activity:

In the study “Cinnamomum verum component 2-methoxycinnamaldehyde: a novel antiproliferative drug inducing cell death through targeting both topoisomerase I and II in human colorectal adenocarcinoma COLO 205 cells”, the anti-proliferative effect and anticancer activity of o-methoxycinnamaldehyde was studied.

In this study, it was determined that o-methoxy cinnamaldehyde exhibited antiproliferative activity in vitro by cytotoxicity and inhibitions of the activities topoisomerase I and II, which are cellular growth markers and upregulating the pro-apoptotic molecules that are associated with increased lysosomal vacuolation.

Further, it exhibits anticancer activity by reducing the tumor burden in cancerous cells in lungs, liver, skin and in T-lymphoblastic leukemia.

Reference Links:

  1. o-Methoxy cinnamaldehyde by PubChem
  2. Isolation, purification, and antibiotic activity of o-methoxycinnamaldehyde from cinnamon
  3. Anti-inflammatory activity of cinnamon (C. zeylanicum and C. cassia) extracts – identification of E-cinnamaldehyde and o-methoxy cinnamaldehyde as the most potent bioactive compounds.
  4. 2-methoxycinnamaldehyde from Cinnamomum cassia reduces rat myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury in vivo due to HO-1 induction.
  5. Cinnamomum verum component 2-methoxycinnamaldehyde: a novel antiproliferative drug inducing cell death through targeting both topoisomerase I and II in human colorectal adenocarcinoma COLO 205 cells.

Sugandha Kokila Essential Oil

Sugandha-kokila-bannerWhat a conventional name this oil has! The name ‘Sugandha Kokila’ sounds like a typical Indian name concealing a handful of health benefits in it. And I am not wrong; ‘Sugandha’ is a Sanskrit name meaning ‘Fragrant’.

The unique, rich, herbaceous, warm, camphoraceous and spicy aroma of Sugandha Kokila essential oil is extracted from the dried berries of this plant, scientifically known as Cinnamomum glaucescens is a member of the Lauraceae family. The ancient Ayurvedic texts recommend the use of this oil as a natural tonic for the digestive system and the central nervous system.

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This is an evergreen tree native to the tropical Himalayan regions in Nepal, Bhutan and India (Khasi Hills, Sikkim and Manipur). Sugandha Kokila tree is locally known as Gondsoroi and Malligiri and Cinnamon berry is its common name. This large-sized tree has the potential to grow in plains as well as hilly areas up to an average altitude of 1500m.

The major constituents and therapeutic properties:

Experts say that the constituents of this oil belong to the chemical family of monoterpenes, esters and oxides. The principal constituents responsible for the remedial properties of this oil are a-pinene, ß- pinene, camphor, sabinene, eucalyptol, a- terpineol, 1,8-cineole, ß-phellandrene (trace), ß–myrcene, p-Cymene, linalool and trans methyl cinnamate.

The therapeutic values of Sugandha Kokila essential oil are digestive, anti-arthritic, carminative, analgesic, antiseptic, relaxant, stomachic, antimicrobial, emmenagogue, astringent and antibiotic.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Sugandha Kokila oil:

Ayurveda is an optimistic curative methodology that considers illness as an opportunity for healing and as the right time for change. Being the oldest medicinal system, Ayurveda trusts that good health is the harmony between one’s physical, mental and spiritual wellness depending upon his/her diet, lifestyle and certain other environmental factors.

Ayurvedic approach towards health is highly accepted for its simple treatment techniques using natural medications like herbs and essential oils along with exercises, yoga, meditation, lifestyle changes and the art of balanced living.

Essential oils are the vital life force of plants as they transform the real energy of the plants from which they are extracted. Ayurveda believes that this vital energy of plants will highly help in increasing the prana or life force of human beings when used in an appropriate manner. Essential oils are said to strengthen the sense of smell, the predominant one among the five senses.

The aromatic molecules of the essential oils reach the limbic system of the brain through the nasal passage, where limbic system is the control center that is responsible for feelings, emotions and certain other functions of the body. Using essential oils in Abhyanga or the art of Ayurvedic massaging grant ultimate relief by entering into the bloodstream gradually.

Sugandha Kokila essential oil, for its matchless aroma and incredible healing values is called as ‘A Gift to Perfumers from the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal’.

The most important Ayurvedic health benefits of this oil are:

Sugandha-kokila-broucher1. Alleviates pain and inflammation:

Sugandha Kokila essential oil is a natural analgesic that deadens pain. It aids in enhancing blood circulation and the astringent property of this oil supports the contraction of blood vessels therefore lessening swelling, inflammation and irritation.

The anti-arthritic and warming property of this oil calms the nerves and soothes the muscles, making it an effective natural remedy for treating rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain, sprains, inflamed joints and certain other problems due to improper blood circulation.

Massaging the painful area with a blend of few drops of Sugandha Kokila oil and Juniper oil along with soothing carrier oils like coconut oil can relieve tension in the muscles and foster blood circulation.

2. Relieves stress:

The essential oil extracted from the berries of Sugandha Kokila tree is an excellent tonic for the central nervous system. The relaxant properties of this oil supports in treating problems associated with stress and anxiety.

Tension headache, nervous tension, fear, insomnia, tiredness and lack of concentration can be managed at ease by using few drops of Sugandha Kokila oil in your warm bathing water or air freshener or to diffusers. Inhaling the comforting aroma of this oil clears your mind, increases your concentration power and grants you a sense of ultimate support.

3. Supports the digestive system:

The carminative, digestive and stomachic properties of this oil supports the digestive system and aids the process of metabolism. Massaging few drops of this oil blended with soothing carrier oils can assist one in relieving flatulence, promoting quick digestion and improving appetite. It can also be used as a bathing oil in a tub of warm water for assisting the functions of your digestive system.

4. Strengthens the entire system:

Sugandha Kokila oil increases the immune power and makes the body resistant against infections, microbes, harmful bacteria and other micro-organisms affecting its normal functioning. The antiseptic, anti-bacterial and antimicrobial properties of this oil help control infections like urinary infections and protect the system.

As an expectorant and decongestant, this oil is also beneficial to the respiratory system. It assists in breaking down and removing of excess mucus in the respiratory system. 2 to 3 drops of this oil can be added to your facial steam water for loosening the mucus.

5. Benefitting the chakras:

According to Ayurveda, Chakras are the transfer points for human feelings, emotions and functioning of certain endocrine glands. There are 7 chakras in a human body. Light Miller in her book ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ has said that “the essential oils increase the finest and farthest vibrations and assist all of the subtle bodies. Essential oils can stigmata and assist in the process of awakening, healing, opening the chakras, and strengthening the aura”.

Sugandha Kokila essential oil is said to benefit the 4th chakra-heart chakra dealing with absolute love for self and the divine, 2nd chakra-sacral chakra responsible for relationships, immune system, energy creation and sexual feelings and the 5th chakra-throat chakra accountable for integrity and speaking truth. Inhaling the aroma of this oil added to diffusers, vaporizers or burners can help you in strengthening your chakras.

Apart from these benefits, Sugandha Kokila oil is also used in making perfumes, incenses, scents, detergents, industrial fragrances and cosmetics.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or replace any prescribed medication or professional advice. Do not use essential oils internally and consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using it. Essential oils are highly concentrated so keep them out of reach of children.

Thought for the day:

The trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit.   -Moliere

Suggested Reading:

  1. Ayurveda in Nepal: Volume One: Ayurvedic Principles, Diagnosis and Treatment from Wasteland Press
  2. In Search of the Medicine Buddha: A Himalayan Journey by David Crow
  3. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy & Herbalism by Julia Lawless

Reference Links:

  1. Investigation of Nepalese Essential Oils. I. The Oil of Cinnamomum glaucescens (Sugandha Kokila)
  2. Sugandha Kokila oil by Everest Herbs
  3. Aromatherapy from Ayurveda’s Perspective by Yayoi Stavish