Article: THERAPEUTIC APPLICATION OF SHATAPUSHPA (ANETHUM GRAVEOLENS LINN.) IN THE CONTEXT OF MENSTRUAL DISORDERS: A CRITICAL REVIEW

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.16275

Pages: 217-221

Author: Sharanya CB, Smitha Jain *

Abstract: Shatapushpa (Anethum graveolens Linn.), an annual herb belonging to the family Umbelliferae, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments. Notably, it plays a crucial role in regulating Agni (digestive fire) and Vata (Dosha regulating movement and cognition) and supporting Rasa Dhatu (nutrient fluid) , making it particularly effective in the management of menstrual disorders. There is scattered information on its effectiveness in conditions like Anartava (amenorrhoea), Viphalartava (anovulatory cycles), Atyartava (menorrhagia), Alpartava (hypomenorrhea), Kashtartava (dysmenorrhea), Rudhira Gulma (uterine fibroids), and Yoni Shulahara (pain reliever). A comprehensive review on its potential application in the management of menstrual disorders remains lacking. Hence, this review aims to consolidate insights drawn from classical Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushrutha Samhita, Kashyapa Samhita, Madnapala Nighantu, Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, and Kayadeva Nighantu. Additionally, the study incorporates an exploration of relevant published research from databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar. By analysing its diverse properties, such as anti-spasmolytic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, contractile, and antibacterial, this study highlights the potential of Shatapushpa in the effective management of various menstrual disorders.

Keyword: Shatapushpa, Menstrual Disorders, Artava Vyapad, Artavavaha Srotas