World Menopause Day 2026: Ayurveda Offers Holistic Approach to Women’s Health

On the occasion of World Menopause Day 2026, observed on October 18, the Ministry of Ayush has highlighted Ayurveda’s holistic approach to managing menopausal health through preventive care, appropriate nutrition, lifestyle modifications, yoga and traditional therapies.

Through the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), the Ministry is promoting greater awareness of menopause while strengthening scientific research into Ayurvedic interventions that support women’s physical health, emotional well-being and quality of life.

Understanding Menopause and Its Impact on Women’s Health

Menopause is a natural biological transition that marks the permanent end of menstruation due to declining ovarian follicular activity. It generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and may bring physical, hormonal and psychological changes.

Common symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, hot flushes, vaginal dryness, disturbed sleep, mood fluctuations, joint discomfort and anxiety. While these experiences vary among women, appropriate lifestyle practices and timely healthcare can help manage symptoms.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), perimenopause begins with the first signs of menopausal transition and extends until one year after the final menstrual period. This phase can last several years and may influence physical, emotional and social well-being.

In Ayurveda, menopause is understood through the concept of Rajonivritti, which describes the natural cessation of menstruation. Ayurvedic approaches focus on maintaining physical strength, supporting mental balance and addressing individual health concerns during this transition.

Ministry of Ayush Emphasises Preventive and Individualised Care

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, emphasised the importance of sustained healthcare throughout a woman’s life, including menopause. He highlighted Ayurveda’s preventive framework, which combines appropriate lifestyle practices with individualised healthcare.

The Ministry is also strengthening research and scientific validation of Ayurvedic interventions to improve awareness and support informed healthcare decisions.

Prof. Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General of CCRAS, described menopause as a natural transformation rather than a disorder. He highlighted the traditional role of Rasayana therapies, dietary guidance and mental well-being practices in helping women maintain balance during this phase.

CCRAS is examining classical Ayurvedic formulations, including Ashokarista and Amalaki Rasayana, for their potential benefits in menopausal health, including bone health and emotional well-being.

Dr N. Srikanth, Deputy Director General of CCRAS, stressed the importance of translating traditional Ayurvedic knowledge into evidence-based healthcare solutions through scientific evaluation.

Ayurvedic Rasayana Therapies and Herbal Formulations

Ayurveda recommends a comprehensive approach to menopausal health that incorporates Rasayana therapies, appropriate nutrition, physical activity, emotional support and individualised treatment.

Rasayana, traditionally associated with rejuvenation and the maintenance of vitality, forms an important component of Ayurvedic care. These therapies aim to support general health and resilience during age-related physiological changes.

Classical preparations such as Ashokarista, Lodhrasava, Usheerasava, Chandanadi Loha, Amalaki Rasayana and Mukta Shukti are traditionally used in Ayurvedic practice for various health concerns associated with menopause.

However, these formulations require appropriate clinical assessment and professional supervision. Their effectiveness for specific menopausal symptoms remains an area of ongoing scientific investigation, and they should not replace medically indicated treatment.

Dietary Practices for Maintaining Bone and Muscle Health

Nutrition plays an important role in supporting women during and after menopause. Ayurveda emphasises balanced meals, appropriate food quantities and dietary choices suited to individual constitution, digestive capacity and health requirements.

Adequate protein intake helps maintain muscle strength, while calcium, vitamin D and other essential nutrients support bone health. A varied diet containing vegetables, fruits, pulses, whole grains and suitable sources of healthy fats can contribute to overall well-being.

Ayurvedic dietary guidance also recommends moderation in the consumption of excessively pungent and salty foods. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol and maintaining regular eating habits can further support long-term health.

Yoga, Pranayama and Meditation for Menopausal Well-Being

Yoga offers a complementary approach to supporting physical fitness, emotional balance and relaxation during menopause. Regular practice may help improve sleep, reduce stress and maintain flexibility.

The Ministry of Ayush has highlighted several yoga practices that may benefit women experiencing menopausal discomfort.

Setu Bandhasana, or Bridge Pose, supports spinal flexibility and strengthens muscles around the back and hips. Viparita Karani Asana, a restorative inverted posture, encourages relaxation, while Marjariasana, or Cat Pose, promotes spinal mobility and may ease stiffness.

Shavasana, commonly practised at the end of a yoga session, encourages deep relaxation and may help reduce stress and fatigue.

Breathing practices such as Sitali Pranayama and Bhramari Pranayama, alongside meditation and Yoga Nidra, may support emotional regulation, relaxation and improved sleep quality.

Women should select practices appropriate to their physical condition and seek guidance when necessary, particularly if they have musculoskeletal or other medical concerns.

Emotional Well-Being and Family Support During Menopause

Menopause can influence emotional health through changes in sleep patterns, hormonal activity and everyday physical comfort. Some women experience irritability, anxiety, mood changes or reduced energy during this period.

Ayurveda places importance on mental well-being through stress management, counselling, self-care and supportive family relationships.

Open conversations about menopause can also help reduce misconceptions and encourage women to seek appropriate healthcare when symptoms interfere with daily activities.

CCRAS Strengthens Scientific Research on Menopausal Health

The Ministry of Ayush and CCRAS are advancing research into traditional Ayurvedic approaches to women’s health, with particular attention to clinical outcomes, safety and scientific validation.

Research efforts include evaluating classical formulations, lifestyle interventions and integrative approaches that may contribute to managing menopausal symptoms and maintaining long-term health.

The objective is to develop a stronger evidence base for appropriate Ayurvedic interventions while improving access to reliable information about menopausal health.

Promoting Health and Confidence Through Menopause

World Menopause Day 2026 reinforces the importance of recognising menopause as a natural stage of life that deserves informed attention and appropriate healthcare.

By combining traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern scientific research, preventive healthcare, balanced nutrition and supportive lifestyle practices, the Ministry of Ayush aims to strengthen women’s health and well-being.

Greater awareness, timely medical guidance and individualised care can help women navigate menopause with confidence while maintaining their physical and emotional health.

References

1. Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Ayush (17 October 2026): World Menopause Day 2026: Ayurveda Promotes Holistic Approach to Menopausal Health
2. Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS): Menopausal Syndrome — Official Information Publication
3. CCRAS Annual Report 2023–24: Ayurvedic Clinical Research on Menopausal Syndrome and Postmenopausal Bone Health