Satyori — Artavavaha Srotas (Menstrual Channels) Quick Card
Srotas Quick Card
Artavavaha Srotas
Menstrual Channels · The channels that carry artava (menstrual fluid/ovarian hormones)
Function
Artavavaha srotas governs the production, regulation, and elimination of artava -- a concept that encompasses both the menstrual blood (the monthly discharge of the uterine lining) and the ovarian essence (the hormonal and ovulatory function of the ovaries). This channel system manages the entire menstrual cycle, supports conception, and reflects the overall state of female reproductive health. Healthy artavavaha srotas is essential for fertility, hormonal balance, and emotional well-being in women.
Origin · Pathway · Destination
Origin: The uterus (garbhashaya) and the artavavahi dhamani (the vessels carrying artava, likely corresponding to the uterine and ovarian arteries and veins).
Pathway: From the ovaries (where artava in the form of ovarian hormones and ova originates) through the fallopian tubes to the uterus, and from the uterine lining through the cervix and vagina to the external environment during menstruation.
Destination: The external environment during menstruation (the eliminatory function) and the ovum/embryo during conception (the creative function).
Signs of Healthy Flow
Regular menstrual cycles of 26-30 days. Menstrual blood that is bright red like freshly cut lotus, neither too heavy nor too scanty, flowing for 3-5 days, without excessive clotting, pain-free or with minimal discomfort.
Signs of Blockage
Amenorrhea (absent periods), scanty periods (oligomenorrhea), delayed periods, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), heavy clotting, dark or brown menstrual blood, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), uterine fibroids obstructing normal flow, infertility from tubal blockage.
Treatment Principles
Regulate apana vayu to ensure proper downward flow. Nourish rasa and rakta dhatu as the source tissues of menstrual blood. Balance all three doshas according to the specific imbalance pattern.
Supporting Herbs
<a href='/herbs/shatavari/'>Shatavari</a> (the supreme female reproductive tonic), <a href='/herbs/ashoka/'>ashoka</a> (Saraca asoca) for menstrual regulation and uterine support, <a href='/herbs/lodhra/'>lodhra</a> (Symplocos racemosa) for excessive bleeding, kumari (aloe vera) for cleansing and regulating the uterine channels, dashmool (the ten roots formula) for Vata-related menstrual pain, nagakeshara for hemostasis in heavy periods, rajapravartini vati for reestablishing absent or scanty periods.
Supporting Practices
Rest during the first 1-2 days of menstruation, warm food and drink during the period, gentle yoga rather than vigorous exercise during flow, castor oil packs on the lower abdomen, warm baths, emotional processing and journaling, cyclical eating that honors the phases of the menstrual cycle, adequate iron-rich foods after menstruation.
Prakriti Guide
The health of Artavavaha Srotas depends on your unique doshic balance. The Prakriti Guide reveals your constitution — which channels are most vulnerable, which herbs and practices support you specifically, and how to adjust for seasons.