World Menopause Day: Ayush Ministry stresses awareness, comprehensive care and research

The Ministry of Ayush has called for greater awareness, open conversations and timely care around menopause, highlighting physical health, emotional well-being and quality of life on World Menopause Day, observed on October 18.

Through the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), the ministry is promoting preventive care and research into Ayurvedic approaches to menopausal health.

Menopause is a natural biological stage marking the permanent cessation of menstruation following the loss of ovarian follicular activity. It usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.

The transition can involve irregular menstruation, hot flushes, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances, mood changes, joint pain and anxiety. In Ayurveda, this phase is discussed in the context of Rajonivritti and its associated clinical features.

Citing the World Health Organization, the ministry said perimenopause begins when signs of the transition first appear and continues until one year after the final menstrual period. It can last several years and affect physical, emotional, mental and social well-being. Hormonal and non-hormonal interventions can help alleviate symptoms.

Ayush Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha said women’s health required sustained attention at every stage of life, including menopause.

“Ayurveda offers a comprehensive framework that emphasizes prevention, appropriate lifestyle practices and individualized care,” he said, adding that the ministry was committed to strengthening research and scientific validation.

CCRAS Director General Professor Rabinarayan Acharya said Ayurveda viewed menopause as a natural transformation rather than a disorder. He highlighted dietary guidance, mental well-being practices and Rasayana therapies as elements of its approach.

Acharya said the council’s research focused on evaluating classical formulations such as Ashokarista and Amalaki Rasayana for their potential role in menopausal care, including bone health and emotional well-being.

CCRAS Deputy Director General N. Srikanth said the organisation aimed to translate traditional knowledge into evidence-based solutions supporting women’s health and quality of life.
The ministry outlined a multidimensional approach involving dietary and lifestyle guidance, counselling, emotional support, yoga, meditation and traditionally used herbal formulations.

It noted that preparations such as Ashokarista, Lodhrasava, Usheerasava, Chandanadi Loha, Amalaki Rasayana and Mukta Shukti should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

A balanced and varied diet, with adequate protein, calcium and other essential nutrients, was highlighted as important for maintaining muscle strength and bone health.

Yoga, breathing exercises and meditation may support relaxation, sleep and emotional well-being, the ministry said. It cited practices including Setu Bandhasana, Vipreetkarani Asana, Marjariasana and Shavasana, alongside Sitali Pranayama, Bhramari Pranayama and Yoga Nidra.

The ministry also emphasised moderation in food intake, limiting alcohol, avoiding tobacco and managing physical and emotional stress. It said ongoing research would focus on generating scientific evidence and evaluating clinical outcomes, while encouraging informed discussions to help women navigate menopause with confidence.

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