A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON THE MANAGEMENT OF OLIGOSPERMIA – AN AYURVEDIC AND MODERN PERSPECTIVE

*Dr. Yogesh Ashok Kamble, Dr. Umesh Bharat Patil, Dr. Kajal Yogesh Kamble

ABSTRACT

Background: Oligospermia, characterized by low sperm count, has become a leading cause of male infertility worldwide. Ayurveda correlates this condition with Shukra Dhatu Kshaya, primarily resulting from Vata–Pitta vitiation, Agnimandya, and Dhatu Kshaya. Modern medicine attributes it to hormonal imbalance, infection, oxidative stress, and environmental factors. This systematic review aims to synthesize available Ayurvedic and modern evidence on the management of Oligospermia. Objective: To evaluate Ayurvedic and modern research studies focusing on the etiology, pathophysiology, and management of Oligospermia, and to analyze the outcomes according to PRISMA 2020 standards. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Ayurvedic and modern studies published between 1990 and 2024 were retrieved from PubMed, Google Scholar, AYUSH Research Portal, and classical texts. Inclusion criteria included clinical and experimental studies related to male infertility and oligospermia. Data were synthesized qualitatively. Results: Twenty-four studies met inclusion criteria, including 12 Ayurvedic and 12 modern trials. Ayurvedic interventions such as Vajikarana Rasayana, Shatavari, Gokshura, Ashwagandha, Kapikacchu, and formulations like Mashadi Churna and Vrihani Gutika demonstrated significant improvement in sperm count, motility, and semen quality. Modern interventions included antioxidants, clomiphene citrate, gonadotropin therapy, and lifestyle modification. Combined evidence indicated that both systems target oxidative stress reduction and testicular rejuvenation. Conclusion: Both Ayurvedic and modern interventions provide beneficial outcomes in Oligospermia. Ayurvedic Rasayana and Vajikarana therapy offer holistic rejuvenation of Shukra Dhatu, aligning with modern findings on spermatogenic restoration. Integration of both approaches may offer effective, safe, and sustainable management of male infertility.

Keywords: Oligospermia, Shukra Dhatu Kshaya, Vajikarana, Rasayana, Male Infertility, PRISMA Systematic Review.