Ayurvedic Tips for Endometriosis

ENDOMETRIOSIS Ayurvedic Tips

To diagnose endometriosis and other conditions that can cause pelvic pain a detailed history and pelvic examination is under taken. Steps in diagnosis include –

• Pelvic exam
• Ultrasound examination of the abdomen
• Laparoscopy to detect the sites of endometrial deposits

Diet Recommendations (Aahar)

• The endometriosis dietshould include more oil, sweet foods (but not refined sugars), as well as some salt and warm foods such as cereal and stews.
• There should be plenty of warm to hot water.
• Intake of foods such as meat, cheese, caffeine and alcohol should be minimized.
• Taking a mild laxative like triphala or 4 to 5 teaspoons of castor oil or senna tea are recommended on days 14 to 15 of themenstrual cycle, along with a light diet, in order to minimize endometriosis symptoms.
• Diet should be Vata/Pitta pacifying, Agni-promoting and Ama-eliminating diet. This includes warm, light and slightly oily, fresh home-cooked meals.
• Avoid dry, cold, excessively heating and fermented foods.
• Particularly avoid alcohol, caffeine (especially coffee), carbonated drinks, red meat and refined sugar or flour,
• Red wine, chili

Lifestyle changes (Vihar)

• Plenty of rest. Some Ayurvedic teachers recommend women should rest for at least 20 mins a day, for a longer period once a week and then a day or more if possible each month (on the first day of their menstruation, if still menstruating).
• For women with endometriosis, regular rest is even more important.
• Women should avoid heavy exercise during menstruation and should keep their exercise relatively moderate throughout the month.
• Forms of exercise that regulate the flow of Vata and nourish the nervous system such as walking, swimming, Tai chi, QiGong and some forms of  yoga are advisable.
• Regularity in daily routine (going to bed and waking up at a similar time each day and regular meal times) is very important for calming aggravated Vata, as is regular self-abhyanga / warm oil massage.