Role of Panchakarma Therapy in the Management of Female Infertility: An Integrative Review

BackgroundFemale infertility is a significant global health concern affecting reproductive, psychological,and social well-being. Conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, anovulation, tubalblockage, endometriosis, and unexplained infertility contribute substantially to reduced fertilityrates. Ayurveda describes female infertility under the concept of Vandhyatva, which resultsfrom vitiation of Doshas, impaired Artava Dhatu, dysfunction of reproductive channels(Artavavaha Srotas), and disturbances in systemic metabolism. Panchakarma therapies areconsidered important bio-purificatory procedures for restoring physiological balance andenhancing reproductive health.MethodologyThis integrative review was conducted through a comprehensive analysis of classicalAyurvedic literature and contemporary scientific publications related to Panchakarma andfemale infertility. Relevant articles were retrieved from databases including PubMed, GoogleScholar, Scopus, and AYUSH research portals using keywords such as “female infertility,”“Panchakarma,” “Vandhyatva,” “Uttara Basti,” and “Ayurveda reproductive health.” Classicalreferences from Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya were alsoreviewed.ResultsThe review highlights the therapeutic role of Panchakarma procedures including Virechana,Basti, Uttara Basti, and supportive therapies in the management of female infertility. Theseinterventions may aid in hormonal regulation, detoxification, correction of metabolicabnormalities, stress reduction, improvement of pelvic circulation, and enhancement ofendometrial and ovarian function. Clinical evidence suggests beneficial outcomes in conditionssuch as polycystic ovarian syndrome, menstrual irregularities, tubal factors, and unexplainedinfertility.ConclusionPanchakarma therapy appears to be a promising complementary approach in the managementof female infertility. Further large-scale clinical studies are required to establish standardizedprotocols and strengthen scientific validation of its therapeutic efficacy.