Lodhra Powder for Leucorrhoea

Leucorrhoea is a whitish mucous discharge from the female genital tract. The basic cause of this problem is overproduction of secretions from the genital tract due to continuous irritation. Mostly there is a change in the vaginal flora due to change in pH. Vaginal infection is the most common cause, which usually results from poor hygiene. Other causes of leucorrhoea are ill health, under-nourishment, marital disharmony, psychological, and endocrine disturbances, genital tract inflammation, any growth in the uterus and use of contraceptives.

Method of preparation

For preparing a decoction for vaginal wash, the stem-bark of Lodhra is cleaned and coarsely powdered. The decoction is prepared by boiling 20 to 30 grams of coarse powder of Lodhra bark in 300 to 500 ml of water till 100 to 125 ml remains. The decoction is filtered and the liquid thus obtained is used warm for vaginal douche. Fresh decoction should be prepared for the wash every day.

Dose and mode of administration

(1) Lodhra powder is given orally in the dose of 3 to 5 gram, twice a day, with rice water or warm water. Rice water is prepared by soaking one tablespoon of raw rice in 50 ml plain water for an hour and then taking out the liquid part. Alternatively, a mixture of the given dose of powder with the equal amount of honey can be swallowed with warm water or rice water.

(2) Vaginal wash with the decoction of Lodhra bark should be done daily for two to three weeks till local symptoms are adequately controlled. Thereafter, only oral medication should be continued.

(3) Concomitant use of powder orally and decoction for vaginal wash helps in speedy and better control of leucorrhoea.

Precautions and safety aspects

(1) It is advisable to diagnose the cause of leucorrhoea before starting treatment with Lodhra.

(2) Overdose and empty-stomach consumption of Lodhra powder may cause abdominal heaviness, nausea and constipation in individuals prone to gastro-intestinal upsets. These symptoms can be avoided by taking light or liquid diet.

(3) Decoction of Lodhra bark for vaginal wash should be prepared fresh and should not be left uncovered for a long time. It is better to use the decoction within an hour or so of preparation.

(4) A smaller dose of Lodhra powder may be taken, if menstrual flow gets diminished.

(5) Excessive use of spicy and sour food items, curd and yoghurt should be avoided during medication.

(6) Mental stress aggravates the symptoms of leucorrhoea and hence an attempt should be made to remain stress-free, relaxed and physically active.

(7) If significant control of symptoms is not achieved in three to four weeks, medical opinion must be sought.

(8) No adverse effect of Lodhra powder is reported when taken in recommended doses.

(9) It is safe for the baby if a nursing mother is taking this medication. However, Lodhra powder should not be used for a long duration during pregnancy.

Reference – Traditional Herbal Remedies for Primary Health Care