Follow-up to ‘Ask Ayurveda’ question #27246 - #31531
Follow-up to ‘Ask Ayurveda’ question #27246 Here are some details about me: My Uterus, Fallopian tubes and Right ovary were removed three years ago (My left ovary is intact). I have a pre-disposition to Migraines since childhood. 2. I have been experiencing the following symptoms in recent times and after going through a couple of articles feel I may be experiencing early onset of Menopause: a. I Sleep quite poorly – some nights I am unable to sleep at all. b. I feel hot and/or sweaty during the day as well as at night. c. I seem to have increased brain fog/memory loss since few months. d. I am having severe pain in my front foot and thighs on a normal activity day. I have been using Kerala Ayurveda’s Murivenna+Pinda Tailam+Myaxyl oil. I ve been experiencing this pain especially during monsoons and winters since last year. e. I have gained about 6 kgs weight in the last few months which I am unable to shed despite taking efforts. (I am 5’ 5” in height and weigh 65 kgs. I usually weigh around 58-60 kgs). f. My nostrils are always dry and I feel the urge to therefore pick my nose very often. My lips also get very dry despite consuming a lot of water. f. As mentioned in my earlier question #27246, I am experiencing very severe hair fall/thinning that has been worsening for about 1-1 ½ years. And hair wash days are Migraines-in-waiting mode ☹!! 3. I am planning to take the following medicines as per advice received to #27246: a. Amalaki Powder+Black Sesame seed powder+Warm Water – 0.5 tsp twice a day AF b. Ashwagandha tab 0-0-1 AF c. Kaishore Guggulu 1-0-1 AF d. Laghu Sutshekhara Ras 1-0-1 AF e. Nasya at bed time with Rogan Badam Shireen oil – 1 to 2 drops moisturising of nostrils f. Bringraj+brahmi+Amla+few other herbs ayurvedic oil in sesame oil base as pre-shampoo followed by Kottakal Ayurveda shampoo or SESA Ayurveda Medicinal shampoo f. I already practice Nadi Shodhana pranayama, walking for an hour, Meditation regularly. I eat reasonably clean as well. g. Note: I tried Rose water and Aloe vera gel on my face for a few days as suggested for chin acne and ended up with severe migraines on 3 occasions in a few minutes. I am pretty sure Neem and sandalwood pastes which were also recommended will give me the same results as they will cause the water in the paste to evaporate removing the heat from my face and resulting in a migraine! Can you please give me any advice on how to manage this menopause-resembling situation bearing in mind that severely cooling medications – topical or internally ingested trigger my migraines? Even sour-citrus fruits consumed whole/juice/concentrates triggers migraines.
Doctors’ responses
HELLO LAKSHMI,
-After your surgery (uterus, tubes, right ovary removed), your hormones balance changed. Even though your left ovary is still working, it may not fully cover for the missing organs. This can bring on early menopause like symptoms -Ayurveda would explain it as -Vata is high= dryness (skin, nose, lips) , poor sleep, brain fog, joint pains -Pitta is disturbed-> hot flashes, sweating, migraines -Kapha is getting heavier-> recent weight gain, sluggish feeling
Because of your migraine tendency, anything that is too cooling sets off pain. So the treatment has to balance heat and dryness without using extreme cooling measures
TREATMENT GOALS -calm vata= so sleep, dryness, pain, and anxiety ease out. -balance pitta= so hot flashes, sweating, and migraine triggers reduce -lighten kapha= so metabolism picks up and weight doesn’t keep climbing -protect hair, skin, bones= which are vulnerable during menopause -stabilize digestion= because good digestion is the base for balance in all three doshas
INTERNAL MEDICATIONS
1) AMALAKI POWDER + BLACK SESAME POWDER= 1/2 tsp each mixed with warm water twice a day =amalaki is mildly cooling but more rejuvenating, helps hot flashess and hair, balances vata
2) ASHWAGANDHA TABLETS= 1 tab at night with warm milk =calms vata, supports sleep, strengthens nerves and muscles
3) KAISHOR GUGGULU= 1 tab twice daily after meals for 3 months =clears inflammation and ama (toxic buildup), helps joint pain and skin issues
4) LAGHU SUTSEKHAR RAS= 1 tab twice daily after meals =good for acidity, migraine control, pitta balance
ADDITIONS IF TOLERATED
-SHATAVARI KALPA= 1 tsp with warm milk in morning for dryness and hot flashes
-DASHMOOLA KASHAYA= 25ml + warm water twice daily before meals for joint pain and vata balance
EXTERNAL APPLICATIONS
1) OIL MASSAGE= warm Bala Ashwagandha oil daily before a warm shower =helps dryness, joint pain, sleep
2) PINDA TAILA on painful thighs/feet during flare ups
3) NASYA= 2 drops of Rogan badan stirren in each nostril at bedtime. keeps nasal passage moist, helps sleep
4) HAIR= bhirngaraj+ amla oil, apply lightly night before wash. wash with lukewarm water not cold
DIET -warm, freshly,cooked food -Grains= rice, wheat, oats, barley avoid too much millet in winter -Vegetables= gourds, pumpkin, carrots, leafy greens always cooked -Spices= cumin, fennel, coriander, cardamom,turmeric -Proteins= moong dal, sesame seeds, almonds (soaked)
REDUCE -excess chilli, mustard, deep fried foods- increase Pitta -very sour citrus fruits and juices triggers migraine -excess raw salads or cold foods increase vata -packaged , heavy, sugary foods- increase kapha
HOME REMEDIES -warm milk with a pinch of nutmeg at night for sleep -coriander + fennel tea for hot flashes - lukewarm not cold -dry ginger tea in monsoon/wintr for pain relief
LIFESTYLE AND YOGA PRANAYAM
-Daily rhythm= sleep before 11 pm, wake by 6-6:30
-Exercise= continue walking, add gentle yoga like vajrasana, setu bandhasana, viparita karani. Avoid very heating practices
-PRANAYAM= nadi sodhana is perfect. avoid sheetali/sheeetkari (too cooling, migraine trigger). Bhramari can help migraines and sleep
-MEDITATION= continue= it stabilize vata beautifully
INVESTIGATIONS ADVICE
-Hormone levels= FSH, LH, Estradiol-> to confirm menopausal stage -Thyroid profile -> since thyroid changes can mimic menopause -Vitamin D and vitamin B12-> low levels worsen pain, fogginess, hairfall -CBC and iron studies-> to rule out anemia (can worsen hairfall + fatigue) -Bone density scan (DEXA)-> important after hysterectomy / early menopause
What you’re experiencing is real, layered, not “just in your head”. It’s your body navigating both a surgical past and a natural life stage. The path forward in Ayurveda isn’t about “stopping menopause”- it’s about making this transition smoother, so you feel more comfortable in your own skin
The three mantras for you -Warmth (not cold, not fiery ) -Stability (regular food, rest, gentle movement) -Nourishment (body oils, sesame, ghee, calm medications)
This’ll keep vata grounded, cool down pitta without triggering migraines, and prevent kapha from building up too much
DO FOLLOW
HOPE THIS MIGHT BE HELPFUL
THANK YOU
DR. MAITRI ACHARYA
Considering your symptoms and pre-disposition to migraines, there are few Ayurvedic approaches that might be helpful, keeping in mind your body’s specific reactions to cooling therapies. Early signs of menopause, such as hot flushes, night sweats, and weight gain, indicate possible vata-pitta dosha imbalances, particularly affecting your hormonal system. Given this, warm, nourishing, and grounding routines could help in balance these doshas without triggering migraines.
Regarding sleep, poor sleep quality could further aggravate your symptoms. Before bedtime, try a warm glass of milk with a pinch of nutmeg, which might help to calm vata and promote better sleep. Practicing relaxation techniques like Yoga Nidra or listening to calming music can assist in soothing your nervous system before bed. You could also apply a small amount of sesame oil on the soles of your feet and massage gently before sleeping for grounding effects.
With night sweats, sipping on lukewarm water with fenugreek seeds soaked overnight may help with excessive pitta accumulation. The seeds can be chewed in the morning after soaking. Instead of avoiding cooling herbs, try balancing them with warming additives, such as adding a pinch of ginger to any cooling herbal concoctions to prevent potential migraine triggers.
For brain fog, frequent bhramari pranayama might improve mental clarity and focus by balancing the mind. The temporary build-up in body heat might also be managed with mind-calming activities such as pranayama and meditation.
Weight gain may be balanced by eating at regular intervals with digestive spices like cumin or fennel in your meals. Lighten your meals at night to avoid digestive overload and try incorporating more whole grains, legumes, and green leafy vegetables.
Severe foot and thigh pain could suggest poor circulation, aggravated by weather conditions. Continuing with warm oil massages, especially with soothing oils like Mahanarayana or Dhanvantaram thailam, which could improve circulation.
With dry nostrils, regular nasya with sesame oil could help in maintain nasal lubrication, but also try steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil to maintain moisture.
Your proactive approach and current regimen seem well-aligned with your symptoms. Tweak them carefully, observe reactions, and seek professional guidance for tailored adjustments as needed to prevent triggering migraines. Remember, consistency and patience are key in observing improvements.
I can see you described your situation in a very detailed manner Yeah, undergone surgeries along with history of migraine And now you are in peri menopause stage , presently your having hair fall, dryness, weight changes, disturb, sleep, hot flashes, and pain According to Ayurveda, it is due to aggravated VATANPITTA while kapha is weekend in its nourishing form, but accumulated in blocking metabolism Continue the above medication along with that take warm cooked food Avoid sore citrus foods, cold, raw alerts in excess and spicy oily foods Include dates figs soaked raisins sesame seeds cow ghee moong dal methi seeds cumin fennel in diet Walking is excellent Avoid over exertion, do gentle yoga Pranayam, as you are already doing, Nadi Shodhana you can add brahmari Can add Yograj guggulu-1 tab twice daily after food with lukewarm water Shatavari ghrita -1 tsp with warm milk at morning Narasimha rasayan -1tsp daily
Need personal consultation.
As u mentioned the other issues and the medicine u r taking for the same Continue it likewise and along with that add Shatavari rasayanam 1 tsp twice a day after food Take freshly prepared food Take more of fruit and vegetables
NO NEED TO WORRY DEAR,
NEED PERSONAL CONSULTATION
TAKE CARE😊
KIND REGARDS, DR.ISHA ASHOK BHARDWAJ
Do not worry you are going through a perimenopausal stage where every women passses through this transition You can continue above medication along with that add shatavari churna half spoon with warm milk at night which will be very helpful during this time Continue pranayama Reg walking atleast 30 minutes Daily is beneficial Drink warm water Avoid screen time Slp before 10 pm
Hello Lakshmi, Most of your symptoms co- relate with pre menaupause phase You start with Cap. Evanova 1-0-1 after food with water Take pathyadi kadha 15 ml twice daily after food with water, will help reduce your migraine headaches. Do pranayam lom -vilom bhastrika bhamri kapalbhati 5-10 minutes twice daily Avoid processed fatty fast sugary street foods. Brisk walking atleast 30 mins daily will help. Follow up after 15 days
Hello Lakshmi ji, The symptoms you mentioned like hot flashes and sleep issuesare due to menopause. Considering your detailed history, I recommend the following - .Take the medicines prescribed earlier.Add - Shatavari churna -1tsp with milk at bedtime. This will help to manage menopausal symptoms. . Avoid migraine triggers like rose water, aloevera and cold facepacks,fruits or juices. . Continue eating healthy, walking and meditating. . Yoga for migraine - bhramri, bhastrika. .What treatment plan are you following to treat migraine? Is that giving satisfactory results or do you need a treatment plan for migraine? Take care Regards, Dr. Anupriya
Hello Lakshmi.
You are facing pre menopausal syndrome so keep yourself calm and positive. The only best way to stay healthy in this time is staying positive.
✔️Do’s✔️ Drink buttermilk daily. Eat freshly cooked food. Drink warm water. Lunch and dinner on fixed timings. 100 steps after every meal. If possible dinner as early as 7-8 pm.
🧘♀️ Yogasan : 🧘♀️ 1. Pawanmuktasana 2. Bhujangasana 3. Dhanurasana 4. Paschimottanasana 5. Ardha Matsyendrasana 6. Vajrasana 7. Supta Matsyendrasana
🧘♀️ Pranayam: 🧘♀️ 1. Bhramari 2.Bhasrika 3.Kapalbhati 4.Jyoti Tratak 5. Anulom Vilom (breathing in with right nostril and out with left nostril.)
❌Don’ts:❌ Packed and processed food. Ready to eat items. Oily and spicy food. Sour and fermented products. Dals (only moong dal can be eaten) Besan Raw vegetables and sprouts Curd Reduce dairy intake.
💊Medication💊
Do take the medicines you are planning to start.
Add
Syp. Evecare forte 3 tsp twice a day before food.
Nasya in the morning with ANU TAILAM
Understanding Your Symptoms Based on your medical history and the symptoms you’re describing, it’s very possible that you’re experiencing a form of menopause, often referred to as surgical menopause, since your uterus and one ovary were removed. Surgical menopause can sometimes have a more sudden and intense onset of symptoms compared to natural menopause because of the abrupt drop in hormone levels. Your remaining ovary would still be producing some hormones, which is why your symptoms may not have started immediately after the surgery.
Your symptoms—hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, brain fog, and weight gain—are all very common signs of menopause. The joint and muscle pain, dry skin and hair, and hair loss can also be linked to hormonal changes. The connection between your migraines and certain triggers, like cooling substances or sour-citrus fruits, is also a crucial detail to consider.
Advice for Managing Your Symptoms Given your unique situation and triggers, here is some advice on managing your symptoms, keeping in mind your sensitivity to cooling agents and certain foods.
1. Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments Focus on a Balanced Diet: Continue to eat clean. Incorporate healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds, which are beneficial for hormonal health. Opt for warm, cooked foods and avoid excessive amounts of cold or raw foods, which can be perceived as cooling by your body.
Stay Hydrated: It’s great that you’re drinking a lot of water. Consider having warm water instead of cold. You can also add hydrating, non-citrus fruits like pears or apples to your diet.
Manage Weight: The weight gain is likely linked to hormonal changes and a potential slowdown of your metabolism. Focus on regular, consistent activity. The combination of walking and yoga/stretching can be very effective. Strength training is also excellent for boosting metabolism and bone health, which can be affected by menopause.
Identify Your Food Triggers: Since sour-citrus fruits trigger your migraines, pay close attention to other potential triggers. Keep a food diary to track what you eat and if a migraine follows. Common migraine triggers can include aged cheeses, processed meats, and certain artificial sweeteners.
2. Managing Pain and Dryness For Foot and Thigh Pain: Continue using the warm oils like Murivenna and Myaxyl, especially during colder months. These are known for their warming and pain-relieving properties in Ayurveda. Gentle massage can also help improve circulation and relieve muscle tension.
For Dryness (Nostrils and Lips): Your proposed use of Rogan Badam Shireen oil (sweet almond oil) for nasya is a good idea. It’s a nourishing oil that can help moisturize the nasal passages without being overly cooling. For your lips, try a small amount of ghee (clarified butter) or a beeswax-based lip balm.
3. Hair Care and Migraine Prevention Hair Oil: Your choice of a warm-base oil like sesame oil with herbs like bhringraj and amla is good. Bhringraj is known for its benefits in reducing hair fall.
Avoiding Migraine Triggers: Your observation about how water evaporating from pastes on your face triggers a migraine is very insightful. This is a form of evaporative cooling that can constrict blood vessels. To avoid this, use a pre-shampoo oil that is at room temperature or slightly warmed. Be mindful of how you wash your hair—showering in a warm room can help prevent sudden temperature changes.
4. Ayurvedic Medications The medicines you’re planning to take are generally aimed at balancing doshas and addressing menopausal symptoms from an Ayurvedic perspective. Here’s a brief look at their potential benefits in your case:
Amalaki Powder+Black Sesame Seed Powder: This combination is typically used for its rejuvenating and nourishing properties. Amalaki (Indian gooseberry) is rich in Vitamin C, but it can be sour. You mentioned sour-citrus fruits trigger your migraines. While Amalaki powder is less likely to have a similar effect as a whole fruit or juice, if you notice any headache or migraine symptoms, you may want to reduce the dosage or stop it.
Ashwagandha: This is an excellent adaptogen that can help with stress, sleep, and overall vitality, all of which are relevant to your situation.
Kaishore Guggulu: This is often used for joint pain and inflammation. Given your foot and thigh pain, this could be helpful.
Laghu Sutshekhara Ras: This can be useful for balancing Pitta (one of the three doshas in Ayurveda), which is often associated with hot flashes and migraines.
Important Considerations
Monitor Your Symptoms: As you start new routines or medications, keep a journal of your symptoms. Note any changes in your sleep, pain levels, and especially your migraines. This will help you and your healthcare provider determine what is working and what may need adjustment.
Gentle and Consistent: The key to managing these symptoms is being gentle with your body and consistent with your efforts. Sudden, drastic changes can be disruptive.
HEY, Kindly visit a nearby ayurvedic physician for better management.
Warm Regards Dr. Anjali Sehrawat
Based on your symptoms and current health status, it indeed appears you could be experiencing symptoms related to menopause, which can affect your Vata and Pitta doshas due to hormonal changes. This can lead to imbalances manifesting as poor sleep, hot flashes, weight gain, brain fog, and joint pain. Here’s how you might manage these symptoms:
For Sleep and Hot Flashes: Continue with Ashwagandha as it supports both Vata and Pitta balance. To help with sleep quality, you might add Brahmi powder, 0.5 tsp mixed in warm water before bed. Favor warm, grounding (Vata-pacifying) meals like cooked vegetables, minimal raw foods, and avoid excessively spicy (Pitta-aggravating) dishes.
Weight Gain and Brain Fog: Your increase in weight might be influenced by combined stress on metabolism from menopause and doshic imbalances. Minimize caffeine, sugar, and processed foods, ideally opting for whole grains like quinoa or barley. Include Triphala Churna, half tsp at bedtime with warm water, to aid digestion (agni) and detoxification, which may help with mental clarity.
Joint Pain: Continue with your current herbal oils/ointments, as they are intended to improve circulation and reduce stiffness. You may wish to apply a warm castor oil compress on painful areas for 20 minutes daily, particularly during colder months.
Hair Thinning: Your current hair oil routine seems appropriate, but consider adding Shatavari powder, which supports reproductive health and may help address stress contributing to hair loss. Take 1 tsp daily in warm milk.
Dry Nostrils and Lips: Nasya is beneficial; however, you might try sesame oil as it is more Vata-pacifying. For lips, apply pure ghee twice daily for added moisture and protection.
Avoid Cooling Triggers: Since you experience migraines with cooling substances, emphasize a consistently warm regimen. This includes avoiding direct exposure to air conditioning and wind, keeping the head and feet warm.
For specific migraine management, beyond the Laghu Sutshekhara Ras, ensure you are hydrated with warm water, not cold. Also, yoga asanas like Shavasana after pranayama can aid relaxation and help regulate blood flow to the head.
Continue with your daily physical activities and mindfulness practices, as these support all systems.
Given your medical history, it’s crucial to remain in dialogue with a healthcare provider for personalized hormonal guidance, especially as early menopause can occur after surgeries.
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