Study on the effect of Ayurveda during the menopause

The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of ashwagandha root extract in relieving menopausal symptoms, improving quality of life and regulating hormonal parameters in menopausal women. Over a period of 8 weeks, 100 women with menopausal symptoms were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or 300 mg ashwagandha root extract twice daily. Outcomes were assessed using various scales and measurements, including the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS ), Menopause Specific Quality of Life (MENQoL), hot flash score and hormone levels of estradiol, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone. Of the 100 participants, 91 completed the study. The results showed that taking ashwagandha significantly reduced the overall MRS score, particularly in the psychological, somato-vegetative and urogenital domains, compared to placebo. In addition, compared to placebo, ashwagandha intake resulted in a significant decrease in total MENQoL scores and an increase in serum estradiol levels as well as a decrease in serum FSH and LH levels. However, there was no significant difference in serum testosterone levels between the groups. These results suggest that ashwagandha root extract may be a safe and effective option for relieving mild to moderate menopausal symptoms during perimenopause in women.