Menopause manifests in many symptoms, and vaginal dryness is one of them. However, vaginal dryness can happen at any age. The estrogen produced in a woman’s body stimulates the vaginal tissues to keep the vagina moist by the mucous membranes present in the vagina. But this problem is usually seen in menopausal age, from 45-55 years, when the ovaries produce less estrogen.
Vaginal dryness can manifest in many symptoms. Vaginal dryness symptoms include itching, irritation, burning sensation, pain and soreness inside the vagina especially at the vulva.
Ayurvedic remedies for vagina dryness
According to Ayurveda, if during sex, a woman suppresses her natural urges, it aggravates Vata, causing dryness of the vaginal opening, besides other discomforts. So an imbalance in doshas leads to vagina dryness.
Here are some Ayurvedic and herbal remedies to combat vaginal dryness
Abhyanga or oil massage is essential as a daily routine. If you have a dominant Vata, you should use sesame oil for a body massage before your bath. For a dominant Pitta, coconut oil helps, and Kapha dominants should use mustard oil for abhyanga. For self-massage, use warm oil and apply on the entire body, from the scalp to the soles of your feet.
Drink lots of water: While abhyanga will help you to stay hydrated externally, for your inner hydration, drink at least eight glasses of water daily and eat lots of juicy fruits.
Oleation: The use of medicated oils, internally or externally, is called oleation. Self-massage with sesame oil and black salt will pacify Vata dosha and provide natural lubrication.
Fomentation: Tube fomentation (nadi sweda) and bolus fomentation are applied to the genitals for effective results. Fomentation is the process by which the sweat or perspiration is produced in the body by using various methods. Nadi sweda is done by taking steam coming through a hollow tube to the body, especially to the effected parts.
Herbal tampons are given to the individual to insert into her vagina. This helps to cure the inflammation, pain, infection and rejuvenates the tissues.
Enema: Enema is a process of using Vata pacifying herbs to calm down the vitiated doshas, which is the main cause of virginal dryness.
Herbal remedies for vaginal dryness
Triphala: Mix triphala herb powder with water and wash your vagina with this solution. It will cure the burning sensation due to dryness.
Turmeric: Make a paste with turmeric and milk. Apply this paste to the vagina. This homemade remedy lubricates the vagina and treats dryness. Turmeric has anti-microbial properties that protect the vagina from any infection.
Guduchi: Soak a tampon in guduchi oil and inserted it into the vagina. You can also administer with a douche. But this treatment should be done by consulting a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.
Ashwagandha: This powerful herb is used for treating several health conditions including vaginal dryness. It keeps the walls of the vagina supple and healthy.
Shatavari: Mix ghee and organic shatavari, and apply locally to enhance lubrication.
Shatavari and Ashwagandha douche: Boil shatavari and ashwagandha in sesame oil, cool it, and use as a vaginal douche. This should only be done by consulting a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.
Sesame oil: Sesame oil is quite effective as a natural vaginal lubricant. Dip a ball of cotton in sesame oil and apply it to the vaginal walls. Do this for a week and see the result.
Coconut oil: Coconut oil can restore the natural hydration of the body. Dip a ball of cotton in coconut oil and apply it to the vaginal walls. Coconut oil is a source of vitamin E, which will naturally promote the secretion of moisture in the vaginal tissues.
Aloe vera gel: This is also an effective remedy for vaginal dryness. Aloe is a natural moisturizer and reduces dryness and itching in the vagina due to dryness. You can also mix milk and aloe vera gel and apply it.
Fenugreek: Fenugreek is very effective in treating vaginal dryness. It restores estrogen levels in the body and provides relief to the condition. Fenugreek seeds produce an estrogen-like effect and help to increase vaginal lubrication. Soak a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Drink the water in the morning