Ayurvedic practices for maintaining menstrual hygiene

Let’s check how an  Ayurvedic approach to menstrual hygiene makes sense.

According to ancient Indian 

traditions, an Ayurvedic understanding of menstruation involves physical hygiene and emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects.

If you’re looking for natural ways to care for your body during your period, then it may be time to explore the world of Ayurveda.

In this article,

We will share tips from traditional Indian practices to help you have a healthier cycle. Let’s get started!

Ayurvedic concept on the menstrual cycle

Ritu Chakra is the name given to the female menstrual cycle in Ayurveda.

Like a cycle, the word ‘Chakra’ denotes its regular onset at intervals.

Women’s health is heavily reliant on a regular cyclic menstrual cycle (Ritusrava). To maintain women’s health, adequate Artavautpatti (formation) and Nishkramana (expulsion)are required.

The Rajahsrava Kaala, the RituKaala, and the Rituvyatita Kaala are the three phases of a single Rituchakra that lasts one Chandramasa (28 days).

Artava shares many of Rakta’s features and aids in the development of Garbha.

It is one of the most crucial physiological mechanisms that allow Garbha to form. Rajas or Artava in females begins to flow at 12 and lasts till the age of 50.

Artava is the Raktha in Stree that reaches the Garbhakostha (uterus) every month and is expelled for three to seven days each month.

All their biological systems mature as they age, and menstruation begins; the first period in life is termed menarche, and it is one of the indications of puberty; this is known as ‘Pratham Rajodarshankaala.

Menopause, on the other hand, is defined as the permanent cessation of menstruation at the end of reproductive life because of the reduction of ovarian follicular activity; it is also known as ‘Rajonivrittikaala. Rituchakra begins when a person is 12 years old and ends when they are 50.

Why are Ayurvedic practices beneficial for menstrual hygiene?

Ayurvedic practices benefit menstrual hygiene because they offer a holistic approach to women’s health and wellness.

According to Ayurveda, the menstrual cycle is a time of cleansing and renewal, and it’s essential to support the body’s natural rhythms during this time.

Ayurvedic practices such as yoga and meditation can help balance hormones and reduce stress, improving overall menstrual health and hygiene.

Additionally, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a healthy diet and lifestyle, which can help to reduce inflammation and support the body’s natural detoxification processes during menstruation.

Why maintaining cleanliness during periods is essential?

Good menstrual health and hygiene practices can prevent infections, reduce odors and help you stay comfortable during your period.

Changing your pad every 4 to 6 hours or more often, if required, can prevent severe menstrual issues like toxic shock syndromes and other bacterial vaginal infections, possibly leading to infertility. So beware!

Ayurvedic practices for maintaining personal hygiene during menstruation

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, has a holistic approach to health and wellness, including menstruation. Here are some Ayurvedic practices to maintain personal hygiene during menstruation:

• Use natural menstrual products: Ayurveda recommends using natural menstrual products such as cloth pads, menstrual cups, or organic cotton pads. These are free from harmful chemicals and are gentle on the skin.
• Practice good hygiene: During menstruation, it is essential to maintain good hygiene. Take a shower or bath daily and change your menstrual product every 4-6 hours. Wash your hands before and after changing your menstrual product.
• Use Ayurvedic herbs for bath: Ayurvedic herbs such as vetiver, Triphala, turmeric, etc., can give you a refreshing feel along with cleansing your vagina from bacterial infestations. A herbal bath with vata-alleviating drugs, such as leaves of Ricinus communis, can relieve menstrual cramps too.

Remember, every woman’s menstrual cycle is unique, and listening to your body and adjusting your practices is essential.

Incorporating these Ayurvedic practices allows you to maintain personal hygiene during menstruation and improve overall well-being.

Daily routine

Menstrual cycles can be complex for many women, as they can experience discomfort and changes in mood and energy levels.

However, maintaining a healthy daily routine can help alleviate some of these symptoms and make the menstrual cycle more manageable.

This blog post will discuss some tips for a healthy daily routine during menstrual cycles.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health but particularly important during menstrual cycles. During this time, the body works harder to shed the uterine lining, which can cause fatigue. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help your body recover and recharge.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential during menstrual cycles. It can help alleviate bloating and constipation and can also help reduce headaches and fatigue. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water daily, and avoid sugary drinks and caffeine, which can dehydrate the body.

Exercise Regularly

Exercise can help alleviate menstrual cramps and improve mood and energy levels. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, yoga, and swimming, are particularly beneficial during menstrual cycles. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, but listen to your body and adjust your routine as needed.

Eat a Healthy, lighter, and warmer Diet

Eating light, warm foods as during menstruation, your digestive fire is less, and heavy food items may provoke indigestion and associated discomforts.

It can also help alleviate menstrual symptoms and support overall health. Aim for a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and caffeine, which can exacerbate menstrual symptoms.

Practice Self-Care

Practicing self-care is vital during menstrual cycles. Take time to relax and do activities that bring you joy, such as reading, bathing, or spending time with friends and family. Self-care can help alleviate stress and improve mood.

Use Heat Therapy

Heat therapy, such as a heating pad or warm bath, can help alleviate menstrual cramps and reduce inflammation.

Apply a heating pad to your lower abdomen or take a warm bath for 20-30 minutes to help alleviate discomfort.

Practice Good Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene is essential during menstrual cycles. Change your pad or tampon every 4-6 hours, and wash your hands before and after changing them. Use unscented products to avoid irritation and avoid douching, which can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

Do’s and don’ts

Do’s

• Practice good hygiene by taking a shower or bath daily and washing your hands before and after changing your menstrual product.
• Choose your way of comfortable sanitary products.
• Change your sanitary pads every 3 to 6 hours and more regularly to avoid toxic shock syndromes due to bacterial infection.
• Use hot water for a bath, as it can relieve muscle spasms.
• Sleep 8 hours a day
• Keep moving
• Use a natural menstrual product such as cloth pads, menstrual cups, or organic cotton pads.
• Maintain a healthy diet, including fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and herbal teas.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of lukewarm water and fluids.
• Practice gentle exercise such as yoga, walking, or swimming to reduce cramps and improve overall well-being.
• Get enough rest and sleep to help your body cope with menstrual discomfort.
• Use hot water bottles, heating pads, or warm baths to alleviate menstrual cramps.

Don’ts:

• Do not use scented menstrual products, which can cause irritation and infection.
• Avoid tight-fitting clothes and underwear, as they can cause discomfort and increase the risk of infection.
• Do not skip meals or eat unhealthy foods, which can worsen menstrual symptoms.
• Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting that may put pressure on your abdomen.
• Do not use hot tubs or saunas, as they can increase the risk of infection.
• Avoid sexual activity during menstruation, as it can increase the risk of infection.
•  Do not use douches or other vaginal hygiene products, as they can disrupt the natural pH balance and cause infection.
• Remember, everyone’s menstrual cycle is unique, and it is essential to listen to your body and adjust your practices accordingly. 

By following these dos and don’ts, you can maintain good hygiene and reduce discomfort during menstruation. If you have any concerns or questions, consult with your healthcare provider.

Diet during menstrual cycles 

A balanced diet is recommended during menstrual cycles to help maintain energy levels and prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, iron, and fiber is essential, as these nutrients can help alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, cramping, and bloating.

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also essential to reduce the chances of getting dehydration headaches.

During menstruation, women may experience a depletion of iron, particularly if they have a heavy flow, so it is advised to consume iron-rich foods such as leafy green vegetables, red meat, and legumes.

In addition, women should avoid sugary and salty foods during menstruation and throughout the month.

Keeping fresh fruits and vegetables around can help curb sugar cravings.

During the ovulation phase, engaging in joyful and energizing movement is recommended, as energy levels are more balanced.

Conclusion

A healthy menstrual cycle is a step towards healthy reproductive life. A better insight into Diet, practices, and the importance of hygiene can make you feel good and build a better future generation.