Title : Recent trends in medical uses and health benefits or bilwa leaves in dysfunctional uterine bleeding
Abstract:
Introduction: Nature produces several items for health beneficial. Bilwa leaves is one such blessing from nature for mankind which is packed with enormous medicinal advantage. Its medicinal properties have been described in the ancient medicinal treatise in Sanskrit, Charaka samita. Over the last few years, researchers have aimed at identifying and validating plant derived substances for the treatment of various diseases, among which bilwa leaves are the best medicinal virtues for dysfunctional uterine bleeding.
Background: Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is a common problem in women within the age group or 30-50 years. It affects both ends of the reproductive spectrum, that is teens and perimenopausal women.The prevalence of dysfunctional uterine bleeding among reproductive aged women internationally estimated to be be between 3% to 30% with a higher incidence occurring around menarche and perimenopause. Many women do not seek treatment for their symptoms and some components of diagnosis are objective while others are subjective, making exact prevalence difficult to determine.
Chemical structure of Bilwa: It is botically identified as Aegle marmelos corr, belongs to Rutuceal family. In English, the bilwa leaves is called as Beal and its fruit is named as stone apple or Bengal quince. It has been reported to possess alkaloids, cardiac glycosoids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids and steroids.
Molecular Formula: C16H15NO2 [α]27D+7.89®(C0.20,CHCL3)
The plant is rich sources of amnio-acids, galactose and fatty acids. The compound isolated from the bilwa plant show a lot of pharmacological activity.
Aims: To analyse the medicinal benefits of bilwa leaves for dysfunctional uterine bleeding.
Research Methodology: The study was conducted among women between the age group of 17-55 years who had dysfunctional uterine bleeding caused by three medical conditions such as fibroid uterus, polycystic ovarian syndrome and hormonal imbalance in adolescents due to immature hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal axis (HPA axis). The preparation and method of taking bilwa leaves was instructed to them. Research analysis were interpreted by qualitative research approach where subjective evidences are obtained and results were interpreted.
Results:
• The bleeding was gradually reduced and stopped on 7-10 days after consumption of bilwa leaves for women who have diagnosed with fibroid uterus
• Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, the bleeding was stopped within 3-5days after the intake of bilwa leaves
• Adolescent girls with hormonal imbalance, the bleeding was stopped within 2-4 days after taking bilwa leaves
Conclusion: The earliest reference of bilwa dates back to vedic period (2000-800 BC) where it is referred as an emblem of prosperity and fertility. With growing burden of diseases, the use of medicinal plant product is increasing due to its minimal side-effects and economical aspects. Chronic abnormal uterine bleeding results in severe anaemia, hypotension, shock and even death if prompt treatment and supportive care are not initiated. Hence, the awareness about the curative properties of bilwa leaves must be reached to the nursing professionals to manage physical and emotional issues of DUB and ensure women’s health.
Take Away Notes:
• To understand the curative properties of of bilwa for DUB
• Cost effective and no side-effects
• Prevent complications of DUB
• Avoid unnecessary surgical interventions
• Easy method of preparation which can be prepared in home itself
