What are Ovarian Cysts

By Sepideh Abolfazli

What are Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled or semi-solid sacs that form in or on the surface of the ovaries. Any ovarian follicle larger than 2 cm in size is considered an ovarian cyst.¹⁴ They are very common, especially in women of reproductive age. There are five main types of ovarian cysts, which are usually categorized based on how they form or where they develop: follicular, corpus luteum, dermoid, cystadenoma, and endometrioma cysts.¹

Most ovarian cysts are benign and cause no symptoms, but larger or long-lasting cysts can lead to pelvic pain, lower back pain, irregular periods, bloating, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, menorrhagia, breast tenderness or even fertility issues.^2,16

In modern medicine, ovarian cysts are often grouped into functional cysts, such as follicular and corpus luteum cysts, and pathological cysts, which include endometriomas and cysts that are more likely to grow or persist. Some of these cysts can increase in size and may occasionally require surgical removal. ²

Ovarian cysts are important to study because they can sometimes lead to complications, such as ovarian torsion or cyst rupture (a personally painful experience), both of which can be extremely painful. More importantly, the presence of cysts may act as a warning sign, pointing to deeper imbalances or disturbances within the reproductive system.

Epidemiology

Ovarian cysts are a very common gynecological condition affecting people with ovaries across the world and in the United States. Studies estimate that about 10 % to 30 % of women will develop at least one ovarian cyst during their lifetime, with many being small and asymptomatic.³ Epidemiological research also suggests that approximately 7 % of women worldwide are reported to have an ovarian cyst at some point in their life.⁴ In the United States, data show that about 18 % of postmenopausal women develop ovarian cysts over a 15-year period.⁵ Additionally, some imaging studies indicate that simple cysts are seen in about 14 % of post menopausal women when first examined by ultrasound.⁶ These figures highlight both the high prevalence and the importance of understanding ovarian cysts from clinical and integrative perspectives.

Western Pathology

While ovarian cyst pathology is often linked to hormonal imbalance, the exact cause of these imbalances is not always clearly understood.⁷ Functional cysts, which are most seen in premenopausal women, develop when a follicle fails to release an egg or does not properly drain its fluid after ovulation. When this occurs, the follicle can continue to swell and form a cyst within the ovary.⁸

These types of cysts are usually benign and often resolve on their own without treatment. However, in some cases, they may cause pelvic pain, rupture, or contribute to menstrual irregularities such as heavy bleeding, delayed periods, or missed cycles.⁹ This happens because functional cysts can interfere with normal hormone regulation and disrupt the ovulation process. Pathological cysts are caused by abnormal cell growths that are not related to menstrual cycle. A small number of these cysts are cancerous. They can develop from the cells used to create eggs or those covering the outer part of ovary. In this research we are focusing more on the functional ovarian cysts.

Understanding the pathology of functional ovarian cysts is important, as their development and recurrence may reflect deeper disruptions in hormonal balance and reproductive physiology.

Hormonal imbalance is one of the central reasons ovarian cysts develop. The ovaries rely on a precise rhythm of hormonal signals primarily estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), insulin, and androgens to successfully mature and release an egg. When this rhythm is disturbed, ovulation may not occur properly, allowing follicles to stall, persist, and enlarge into cysts.

Ovarian cysts or Polycystic ovary Syndrome cysts is an example of metabolic disorder associated with the hormone insulin resistance and amplified by obesity. There is a close link between obesity and PCOS based on epidemiological data, and more recently corroborated through genetic studies. “Accordingly, there are close links between obesity and PCOS. The majority of women with PCOS (38%-88%) are either overweight or obese.”¹⁰

This suggests that while many women may already have a genetic or metabolic predisposition to PCOS, excess weight gain can trigger or worsen how the condition shows up in the body. At the same time, once PCOS develops, its hormonal and metabolic effects can make losing weight more difficult, creating a cycle where obesity and PCOS continue to reinforce one another.¹⁰

There has been other research linking different types of cysts to obesity such as Para-Tubal Cysts (benign fluid filled sacs located in the ligaments between the ovary and fallopian Tube). This research also states that Para tubal cysts are more common in adolescents with obesity who experience insulin resistance.¹¹

Image 1. These pathways demonstrate how obesity can trigger or amplify the clinical expression of PCOS, especially in women with an underlying genetic or metabolic predisposition.¹⁰

While modern medicine explains cysts primarily through hormonal and structural mechanisms, Ayurveda interprets them through systemic imbalance involving doshas and srotas.

Ayurvedic Perspective

The ancient knowledge of Ayurveda teaches that the primordial cause of diseases is forgetting one’s nature as spirit. When individuals lose sight of their deeper connection to Self, nature and their dharma, imbalances rise. These imbalances can manifest in one’s mental state, lifestyle and choices which can push them out of harmony and eventually causes disease. A disease doesn’t happen suddenly, rather it develops over time as lingering imbalances or symptoms that might have been ignored for long periods. These symptoms usually arise from disturbances of the doshas in the digestive system. These doshas then overflow into Rasa and Rakta dhatu and can manifest and relocate at different location within the human system.

In this essay, I want to explore the root cause (Rupa), Samprapti (Patholoogy), and Chikitsa (treatments) of ovarian cysts using Ayurvedic texts such as Shushurta Samhita, Caraka Samhita, and Astanga Hrdayam.

A key contributing factor in Ayurvedic pathology is Agni, or impaired digestive and metabolic fire. Impaired Agni leads to the formation of Ama, which can obstruct the body’s channels (srotas). Classical Ayurvedic texts describe srotas obstruction as a fundamental mechanism in disease development.¹⁵ When such obstruction involves the Artavavaha srotas, it may interfere with healthy ovarian function and tissue nourishment. Over time, this stagnation can manifest as a Granthi-like structure within the ovary.⁷

In the Shushurta Samhita, Granthi is described as a type of non-suppurating swelling and is discussed alongside other localized swellings. In some English translations, Granthi is compared to conditions such as aneurism based on similarities in structure, such as being localized and nodular. However, this comparison should not be taken as a direct definition. Granthi is a broader Ayurvedic concept that refers to cyst-like or glandular growths arising from doshic imbalance, particularly involving Kapha and Vata. Although ovarian cysts are not named directly in most of these Ayurvedic texts, the concept of Granthi provides a relevant pathological framework through which cystic growths of the ovary may be understood.¹²

In the Astanga Hrdayam, conditions such as Granthi, often translated as benign or nodular tumors but often refers to nodular (never been described as a solid mass), cystic or glandular swelling, and Gulma, described as abdominal or visceral masses, are discussed as distinct pathological entities. These conditions are understood through their doshic involvement and clinical presentation rather than through fixed anatomical definitions. For the purposes of this research, the Astanga Hrdayam will be used as a key classical source, with references to Granthi in Chapter ²⁹ and Gulma in Chapter ¹⁴, where their causes, characteristics, and pathological development are described. Therefore, Ovarian cysts are the result of deeper imbalances within the body, particularly involving the doshas, and their disturbance in the reproductive system. Although many classical Ayurvedic texts do not describe ovarian cysts as a unique condition, these growths are understood through concepts such as Granthi (cyst-like swelling) & Gulma, and dysfunction of Apana Vayu.¹¹

Ayurvedic Interpretation of Ovarian Cysts

In the Astanga Hrdayam, Granthi is described as a nodular or benign swelling that arises when Kapha dosha, often in association with Vata or Pitta, accumulates and invades deeper tissues such as medas (fat), mamsa (muscle), sira (vessels), or asthi (bone), producing a round, raised, and knot-like mass.^13,15

Although ovarian cysts are not named directly in the classical Ayurvedic texts I have explored, their presentation as localized, encapsulated, and often slow growing swellings allows them to be understood through the pathological framework of Granthi. In this context, ovarian cyst formation may reflect Kapha accumulation combined with Vata disturbance in the reproductive channels, leading to stagnation, fluid retention, and tissue encapsulation within the ovary. While Granthi provides a framework for localized nodular swellings, the concept of Gulma expands the discussion to deeper abdominal or formed masses.

In the Caraka Samhita, Rakta Gulma is described as a type of Gulma that occurs exclusively in women.¹⁷ The text highlights an important background factor for its development: the suppression of natural bodily urges and neglect of personal well-being due to dependence on others, lack of awareness, or constant attention to the needs of family and household duties. Caraka also notes that the use of Vata-aggravating practices following abortion, childbirth, or during menstruation can disturb Vata dosha. When Vata becomes vitiated under these conditions, it plays a central role in the formation of Raktaja Gulma.¹⁸

While the Caraka Samhita emphasizes Vata as the primary driving force behind this condition, the Astanga Hrdayam provides a more detailed discussion of how each dosha contributes to the development of nodular or cyst-like growths, which will be explored further in the following section. ¹⁷

In classical Ayurvedic descriptions, specifically Shushurta Samhita, Vataja Granthi refers to a nodular swelling that arises predominantly from the aggravation of Vata dosha.¹⁶ Unlike Kapha Granthi, which tends to be slow growing and stable, Vataja Granthi is often characterized by irregular shape and location, dark or blackish color, hardness, variable size, and pricking or cutting types of pain. These types of swellings may exude thin, clear blood when punctured. ^16,12

These features reflect the mobile, light, and erratic qualities of aggravated Vata.^7,16 When interpreted
in the context of ovarian cysts, Vata involvement may be observed in cysts that present with sharp pelvic pain, fluctuating discomfort, irregular menstrual cycles, or sudden onset symptoms. From an Ayurvedic viewpoint, such manifestations suggest disturbance of Apana Vayu within the reproductive channels, leading to improper movement and localized accumulation rather than simple fluid stagnation.^13,16,7

Pittaja Granthi is characterized by heat, burning sensation, yellow or reddish color, redness, tenderness, and signs of inflammation. It may exude warm blood when punctured, reflecting the sharp and penetrating qualities of aggravated Pitta.¹³ When interpreted in relation to ovarian cysts, Pittaja involvement may be observed in cysts associated with inflammatory pain, heightened sensitivity around the menstrual cycle, or symptoms of heat and irritation in the pelvic region. From an Ayurvedic perspective, this presentation suggests disturbance of Pitta within the reproductive channels, leading to localized inflammation and tissue irritation rather than purely stagnant or mobile swelling.¹²

Kaphaja Granthi is a nodular swelling that arises mainly from aggravated Kapha dosha. It is typically slow growing, smooth, rounded, stable, and often painless, hard cold and the same colour as skin which reflecting Kapha’s heavy and moist qualities. In the context of ovarian cysts, this pattern may correspond to benign, fluid filled cysts that enlarge gradually and remain localized, suggesting Kapha accumulation and stagnation within the reproductive channels.¹³

Ayurvedic Pathology (Samprapti):

Formation of most ovarian cysts are most associated with a Kapha–Vata imbalance. Kapha contributes to stagnation, heaviness, accumulation, and the tendency toward growth formation, while Vata particularly Apana Vayu governs movement, menstruation, and ovulation. From an Ayurvedic perspective, ovarian cysts involve both Artavavaha srotas, due to their close relationship with hormonal regulation and menstrual function, and Shukravaha srotas, which is connected to the reproductive organs by physical location.⁷

Those Granthi arising from Vata are those with pricking pain, dark in colour, change location and size. The ones arising from Pitta are yellow or red in colour and are filled with blood (hemorrhagic ovarian cysts) and those airing from Kapha are painless, hard, cold and have the same colour as skin. ¹³ It is important to note that the condition of PCOS, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a tridoshic condition which makes is very difficult to treat and manage. ⁷

The dhatu vitiated in this case is Shukra dhatu by location. Ovarian cyst from in the ovaries which are a part of Shukra Dhatu and Shukravaha Srotas.⁷ iMedas (fatty Tissue) and Rasa (Dhatu) can also be vitiated to form the physical form of a cysts. Medas dhatu increases by indulgence in foods containing too much fat which gives rise to Granthi.¹³

When Apana Vayu becomes disturbed, the normal downward and outward movement of Artava (menstrual and reproductive function) is impaired. This improper movement, combined with Kapha accumulation, creates conditions favorable for cyst formation.⁷

Several dhatus may be involved in the development of ovarian cysts. Rasa dhatu plays a role in hormonal nourishment and fluid balance, while Rakta dhatu influences circulation to the pelvic region. mamsa and Meda dhatus may contribute to abnormal tissue growth and cyst enlargement.

From an Ayurvedic viewpoint, ovarian cysts are therefore understood as a reflection of systemic imbalance rather than a purely local condition. Addressing the root causes such as doshic aggravation, impaired Agni, and srotas obstruction is considered essential for restoring balance and supporting long-term reproductive health.⁷ Thus, from an Ayurvedic perspective, ovarian cysts represent a manifestation of Vata-Kapha imbalance leading to Granthi formation within the reproductive channels such as the one shown below.

Treatment of Ovarian Cysts (Chikitsa)

As discussed above, ovarian cysts are most commonly associated with disturbances of Vata and Kapha doshas. In some cases, Pitta involvement may also be observed, particularly when cysts present with signs of heat, inflammation, or irritation. Therefore, Ayurvedic management focuses on therapeutic measures that pacify and balance the doshas according to the individual’s presenting symptoms, while also supporting healthy reproductive function, proper channel flow, and overall metabolic balance.

Healing Vata Dosha

Because Vata dosha plays a central role in the pathology of ovarian cysts as well as many other gynecological and systemic conditions, Ayurvedic treatment often begins with Vata pacifying measures. When Vata becomes aggravated, its qualities of dryness, irregularity, and excessive movement disturb the normal flow of Apana Vayu, leading to improper elimination, menstrual irregularities, and localized stagnation within the reproductive channels.⁷ Therefore, management focuses on restoring stability and proper direction of Vata through warm, nourishing diet, adequate rest, oil therapies, Anuvasana and Niruhana bastis (enemas), and lifestyle regularity^7,30,33 & managing stress, while simultaneously addressing associated Kapha accumulation or Pitta inflammation when present. By first calming Vata, the body’s natural rhythms and channel flow can be re established, creating a foundation for more targeted herbal or therapeutic interventions.

Sahacharadi Taila is a classical medicated Ayurvedic oil traditionally used to pacify Vata dosha, particularly in disorders related to the musculoskeletal, neurological, and reproductive systems.^18,19,20 Sahachar Taila is regarded as a deeply therapeutic formulation with nourishing and stabilizing qualities that help counteract the dryness, lightness, and instability associated with aggravated Vata. Because of its grounding and strengthening properties, it has been referenced in several Ayurvedic case studies as supportive in the management of cystic conditions.^18,19,20

One published case study in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine described a 33-yearold patient with ovarian cysts who showed significant improvement following Kala Basti therapy, a 16-day protocol consisting of ¹⁰ oil enemas (Anuvasana Basti) and 6 cleansing enemas (Niruha Basti).¹⁹ The Anuvasana Basti was administered using Sahacharadi Taila, a herbal oil preparation commonly containing the 10 Dashamoola herbs and other Vata-pacifying herbs processed in sesame oil. The use of this oil was considered a key contributing factor in the patient’s positive outcome.²¹ Additional case evidence published in the Ayushdhara journal further supports the potential role of Sahacharadi Taila in managing reproductive and Vata-related disorders, suggesting its therapeutic relevance when used as part of a comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment plan.²⁰

The Ashtanga Hrdayam, one of the principal classical texts of Ayurveda, emphasizes oleation and basti (enema therapy) as primary treatments for disorders involving aggravated Vata doṣa. The text states that “Basti karma is the most effective therapy for the management of Gulma.”²⁶ Because Vata is said to reside primarily in the Purishavaha srotas (the colon), addressing Vata at its principal seat is considered one of the most effective approaches for many Vata-dominant conditions. The Ashtanga Hrdayam further notes that abdominal Gulmas arising from disturbances of Vata, as well as those influenced by Pitta and Kapha, may be treated through the repeated and alternating administration of decoction enemas (Niruhavasana Basti) and oil enemas (Anuvasana Basti): a protocol commonly referred to as Kala Basti.

In addition to basti therapy, the text describes several medicated ghee (ghrta) formulations used to pacify Vata and nourish depleted tissues. Examples include ghrtas (medicated ghee) prepared with herbs such as hingu, sauvarcala, vyosha, yavakshara, citraka (chitrak) , sati, vaca, ajagandha, and ela.²⁶ Another formulation mentioned is Dadhika Ghṛta, prepared with herbs including dashmula, bala, nilini, ashvagandha, bhṛngaraja, amrta, sati, and gandhapalasha, among others. Additional classical preparations such as Lasunadi Ghṛta and Satpala Ghrta are also described as supportive in Vata-related disorders.²⁶

There are several churna (powdered herbal) formulas mentioned in the classical texts for managing Vata Gulma and relieving the pain associated with it. Some of these include Hingvadi Churna, Vaishvanara Churna, Hingvastaka Churna, Sardula Churna, Naracha Churna, Putikadi Yoga (ash preparation), and Hingutriguna Churna.²⁶ In addition to powdered formulas, the texts also describe a traditional preparation made from the juice of matulunga (citron), hingu, dadima (pomegranate), bida, and saindhava salt, taken together with sura manda (the light froth or scum of fermented beverage), as a remedy to help relieve Vata-related abdominal pain and discomfort.²⁶

A vital component of healing Vata dosha is the management of stress and nervous system regulation.^{7, 33} Recognizing sources of stress in daily life and gradually replacing them with activities that soothe and ground the mind is an essential part of any Vata-pacifying treatment. One of the most effective and often underestimated therapies for Vata is the establishment of consistent daily routines such as waking, meditating, eating, reading, and studying at the same time each day helps restore stability and predictability, qualities that directly counter Vata’s irregular nature. Additional supportive lifestyle adjustments include keeping one’s environment clean and organized, avoiding overcommitment, and ensuring proper nourishment and healthy digestion.³³

Mind-body practices also play a significant role in calming Vata. Techniques such as mindfulness, journaling, meditation, prayer, and pranayama (yogic breathing exercises) help regulate the movement of prana, balance the nadis, and quiet the mind. Yoga asanas encourage circulation and fluid movement in the tissues, while marma therapy works through precise energy points connected to deeper structures. Nasya (application of medicated oil to the nasal passages) is traditionally used to influence the head and nervous system, and abhyanga (a full-body oil massage with sesame or Dashamula oil) provides grounding and nourishment to the skin, scalp, and nervous system. Simple therapies such as a warm ginger and baking-soda bath can further relax the body and reduce tension. When combined with a supportive diet aimed at balancing Vata and Kapha, these practices create a comprehensive lifestyle approach that promotes stability, calmness, and long-term balance.³³

In summary, the regulation of Vata dosha forms a foundational step in the Ayurvedic management of ovarian cysts, as it restores proper movement, elimination, and rhythmic balance within the reproductive system. By stabilizing Apana Vayu and re-establishing healthy channel flow, the body becomes more receptive to other therapies aiming at reducing Kapha accumulation. This approach highlights Ayurveda’s emphasis on correcting the underlying functional imbalance first, thereby supporting more sustainable and long-term healing rather than temporary symptom relief.

Healing Kapha

Dosha Because many ovarian cysts present with qualities such as heaviness, fluid retention, slow growth, and localized stagnation, Ayurvedic management often emphasizes the reduction of aggravated Kapha dosha. Excess Kapha is associated with accumulation, obstruction of the srotas, and impaired tissue metabolism, which can contribute to the formation of nodular or cyst-like growths. Therefore, chikitsa (treatment) frequently includes therapies and formulations that lighten, stimulate Agni, clear ama and excess tissue, and promote proper channel flow, creating a foundation for the resolution of encapsulated or glandular swellings.

Kanchanar Guggulu, Bauhinia variegata, ²² classical formula that is most commonly used in treatment of conditions such as thyroid enlargement, lymph node swelling, uterine fibroid, ovarian cysts and benign glandular growths. ^19,20,23 The formulation is valued for its ability to reduce Kapha, support healthy lymphatic and tissue metabolism, and promote the breakdown of stagnant accumulations within the body. From an Ayurvedic perspective, Kanchanar Guggulu works by enhancing Agni, clearing ama, and assisting in the proper flow of the srotas, particularly those related to the reproductive & lymphatic systems. ²⁴ This formula is used in treatments of tumors and cancer, ^24,25 cystic swelling, PCOS and ulcers.²⁴ Because many ovarian cysts are associated with Kapha–Vata imbalance and localized stagnation, this formulation is frequently included in chikitsa (treatment) protocols aimed at restoring metabolic balance and reducing encapsulated growths (medas dhatu). ²⁴

Kapha dosha may present with signs such as excess bodily fluid, a white coating on the tongue, weight gain, mental fogginess, lethargy, and a general feeling of heaviness. In Ayurvedic management, healing Kapha involves reducing accumulation and stagnation through lightening and purifying measures, especially when the individual is overweight and possesses sufficient ojas and strength to tolerate cleansing therapies.^29,30 By supporting healthy metabolism and gradually reducing excess tissue throughout the body, these approaches may also assist in decreasing localized tissue accumulation around ovarian cysts.²⁹

Dietary and Lifestyle Guidelines for Ovarian Cyst Management

Diet and lifestyle guidelines for ovarian cysts focus on pacifying both Vata and Kapha dosha imbalances. A supportive dietary approach emphasizes warm, light, and easily digestible foods that help stimulate healthy metabolism while reducing stagnation and irregularity. Establishing regular mealtimes and consuming three to five smaller meals throughout the day can aid digestion and maintain stable energy levels.^27,28 It is also recommended to avoid eating within four hours of bedtime, as late meals may weaken digestive fire and contribute to accumulation. From a lifestyle perspective, minimizing daytime napping and incorporating at least thirty minutes of exercising or brisk walking can promote circulation, reduce heaviness, and support overall hormonal and metabolic balance.^28,29 If sexual activity is painful, then it must be avoided.⁷

Recommended Foods & Drinks	Foods & Drinks to Avoid
Mung dal, barley, oats, carrots.	Processed food, fried foods, dairy (specially cheese), red meat, cold and frozen items
Cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, fenugreek	Avoid spicy spices.
Whole grain, brown rice, quinoa, vegetables, legumes, berries	Sugar, white bread, bakery items, soft drinks, soda, sugary snacks and sweet fruits (banana, mango, etc.)
Cinnamon tea, spearmint tea, triphala water	Avoid all sugary drinks, energy drinks and sweet teas.
Lean fish, lean chicken	–
Healthy fats: avocado, nuts, seeds, healthy omega 3’s and olive oil	Heavy fats: red meats, fatty steaks, large number of nuts and seeds.

Chart 1: Pacifying Dietary Guidelines for Ovarian Cysts ^7,28,29

Herbal Treatments:

Lekhana herbs, a category of Ayurvedic herbs known for their “scraping” or reducing qualities, can be beneficial in the management of ovarian cysts or Gulma-type growths. While many classical churna (powdered) formulations are traditionally described for pacifying aggravated Vata doṣa, there are also numerous herbs specifically valued for their ability to reduce Kapha accumulation, support healthy weight regulation, and improve metabolic function, all of which may indirectly assist in the healing process of ovarian cysts. Commonly used herbs with Kapha-reducing and lekhana properties include Guggulu^7,28 (Commiphora mukul), Chitrak²⁸, Kutki²⁸ , Ashoka (saraca Indica)⁷ , shilajit,⁷ camphor and Gentian, which are frequently incorporated into Ayurvedic treatment protocols aimed at decreasing stagnation and excessive tissue build up.^{7, 28} Herbal formulas (including multiple herbs) such as Kanchanara Guggulu^7,19,20,23 (mentioned above) and Chandraprapbha^7,31 is also used in treating this condition.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy, the therapeutic use of plant-derived essential oils, has increasingly been explored as a complementary approach in the management of various medical and psychological conditions. Research suggests that certain essential oils may help support stress reduction, pain relief, mood regulation, and improved sleep quality, primarily through their influence on the limbic system and autonomic nervous system. While aromatherapy is not considered a primary or standalone treatment for structural conditions such as ovarian cysts, it may serve as a supportive therapy by calming the nervous system, reducing anxiety, and improving the hormonal balance. Ayurveda, the use of aromatic substances has long been integrated into healing practices through herbal oils, incense, medicated ghee, steam inhalation, and nasya (nasal oil therapy) rather than the modern term “aromatherapy.”

Certain essential oils are commonly used in complementary wellness practices as supportive therapies for ovarian cyst–related discomfort and emotional stress. Clary sage³² is often selected for its traditional association with hormonal balance, while lavender³² is valued for its calming aroma, which may help relax both the body and the mind. In addition to aromatic therapies, herbal supplements such as Vitex (chasteberry)³⁴ are frequently used in integrative practice to support menstrual regularity and hormonal regulation. Frankincense³² is frequently used for its grounding and restorative qualities and is believed in holistic traditions to support the body’s natural healing responses. Although these oils are not considered primary medical treatments, they are sometimes incorporated into massage, baths, or diffusion practices to promote relaxation and overall wellbeing. Other practices such as colour therapy, chanting, mantras and using gems are other paths to be explored in regard to optional treatment.

Beyond physical therapies mentioned in this essay, Ayurveda recognizes the importance of supporting ojas, the subtle essence responsible for vitality and immune system. Strengthening ojas through proper nourishment, rest, emotional stability, and mindful living is considered essential for long-term reproductive health and prevention of recurrence. Supporting ojas is done by healing all doshas mentioned above. In addition to herbal and lifestyle therapies, subtle therapies such as mantra chanting, meditation, color therapy, sound vibration, and the use of gemstones are traditionally viewed as methods for harmonizing the mind and energetic body, reducing stress, and promoting inner balance and therefore building Ojas. While these approaches are considered complementary rather than primary treatments, they reflect Ayurveda’s broader understanding that healing occurs at physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels and they are not separate. Unfortunately, while modern medicine has become highly effective at isolating and treating individual organs, it often overlooks the importance of viewing each organ as part of the interconnected whole of the body and the person.

Ultimately, ovarian cysts are not viewed simply as isolated local growths but as expressions of systemic imbalance. An Ayurvedic approach therefore aims to restore harmony within the entire individual, supporting both physiological function and overall well being, and offering a personalized pathway toward long term reproductive health.

Namaste Thank you for reading!

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References