Prakara yoga: age-wise immunomodulatory drug combinations for kids.
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Prakara yoga (age wise schedule of immunomodulatory drug combinations) and its effect on children's immunity
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Asha S
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Kaumarabhritya, S.V.Ayurvedic College, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Prakara yoga (age wise schedule of immunomodulatory drug combinations) and its effect on children's immunity
Year: 2017
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The concept of immunity pertains to the body's ability to resist illnesses caused by foreign agents like bacteria and viruses. Immunity is divided into two primary categories: innate and acquired. Innate immunity is the body's first line of defense, providing non-specific responses to pathogens that are present from birth. Ayurvedic medicine recognizes this notion as "Vyadhikshamatwa," encompassing preventive and curative strategies to bolster immunity in children, particularly in the pediatric age group where immune deficiencies are prevalent. This paper emphasizes the role of immunomodulatory drugs, especially "Prakarayoga," which are systematically formulated Ayurvedic concoctions aimed at enhancing children's innate immunity and preventing common illnesses.
Concept of Vyadhikshamatwa
"Vyadhikshamatwa" is Ayurveda's philosophical framework for immunity, highlighting the body’s resistance against diseases beyond mere responses to specific infections. It emphasizes maintaining balance among the body's bioenergies (doshas) and tissues (Dhatus). Two major components of Vyadhikshamatwa are "Vyadhiutpadakapratibandakatwa," which aims to prevent disease onset, and "Vyadhibalavirodhitwa," which focuses on mitigating the severity and duration of diseases once they manifest. Understanding this concept underpins Ayurvedic practices that foster a robust internal defense mechanism, which is essential for children's overall wellbeing.
Concept of Prakarayoga
"Prakarayoga" refers to specific Ayurvedic formulations outlined in the Arogyakalpadruma, which are designed to be administered to children at various developmental stages, from birth to twelve years. These formulations, which include a combination of herbs and other natural substances, serve to enhance digestion and immunity, adapting to the specific needs of each age group. The therapeutic use of Prakarayogas is likened to constructing a protective barrier against ailments, similar to how a wall safeguards a home. These preparations are tailor-made to promote general health and prevent the onset of common childhood diseases through a well-defined administration schedule.
Conclusion
The implementation of Prakarayogas from the earliest stages of life is shown to enhance innate immunity and improve the overall quality of life for children. Not only do these formulations demonstrate efficacy in reducing the incidence and intensity of illnesses, but they also represent a holistic approach to health that aligns with Ayurvedic principles. Future research is necessary to further authenticate the benefits of these immunomodulatory practices, ensuring that they can be integrated into modern pediatric care to foster a generation characterized by resilience and vitality.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of Prakarayoga in Ayurveda?
Prakarayoga focuses on boosting innate immunity in children through specific drug combinations. It aims to protect against childhood illnesses by administering these formulations periodically from birth up to 12 years of age.
How does Ayurveda define immunity for children?
In Ayurveda, immunity is termed 'Vyadhikshamatwa,' which encompasses both preventive and curative strategies. It not only refers to resistance against specific diseases but also to maintaining balance among the body's doshas and dhatus.
What is the significance of administering Prakarayoga formulations?
Administering Prakarayoga formulations plays a crucial role in enhancing natural resistance to diseases in children. These combinations support digestion and overall health, helping to reduce the incidence and severity of illnesses.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Prakara yoga: age-wise immunomodulatory drug combinations for kids.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Drug:
In Ayurveda, a drug is often a natural substance or combination of substances used to prevent or treat diseases and enhance health. The concept of Prakarayoga features various drugs that boost immunity in children at different stages of life.
2) Disease:
A disease refers to a condition that impairs normal functioning and is typically manifested by distinguishing signs and symptoms. Prakarayogas are designed to bolster immunity, thus preventing the occurrence of various childhood diseases.
3) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee is a clarified butter used frequently in Ayurvedic medicine. It serves as an adjuvant in many Prakarayoga formulations and is utilized to mix powdered drugs which are administered to children for immunity.
4) Vaca:
Vaca is a medicinal herb used in Ayurvedic treatments. In Prakarayoga, Vaca is ground with other substances and administered to newborns to prevent diseases.
5) Sugar:
Sugar is commonly used as an adjuvant in Ayurvedic formulations, including in Prakarayoga. It helps in making the medicine palatable for children while enhancing its therapeutic effects.
6) Prakara:
Prakara refers to a 'wall' in the context of Prakarayoga, symbolizing protection. Similar to how a wall protects a house, Prakarayogas provide a protective barrier for children against various ailments.
7) Vyosha (Vyosa):
Vyosha represents a group of pungent or hot-tasting spices used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is a key ingredient in many Prakarayoga formulations for its immune-boosting and digestive properties.
8) Yoga:
In Ayurveda, the term Yoga can refer to a combination or formulation of medicinal substances designed for a specific therapeutic purpose. In Prakarayoga, these formulations aim to enhance children's immunity.
9) Kalka:
Kalka refers to a paste prepared from powdered medicinal drugs mixed with a liquid medium. Kalka preparations are frequently used in Prakarayoga to enhance the immunity of children.
10) Bala:
Bala in Ayurveda refers to strength or immunity. It is a crucial aspect considered in Prakarayoga, aiming to enhance children's innate and acquired immune strength to prevent diseases.
11) Jiraka:
Jiraka, or cumin, is one of the ingredients used in Prakarayoga. It has digestive and immunomodulatory properties, making it beneficial for enhancing children's overall health.
12) Honey:
Honey is used as an adjuvant in Prakarayoga formulations. Its properties make it a suitable medium for delivering powdered herbs and other ingredients used to boost children's immunity.
13) Dadima:
Dadima, or pomegranate, is used in some Prakarayoga formulations. It has been noted for its digestive and antioxidant properties, making it valuable in enhancing immunity.
14) Milk:
Milk, often specified as cow's milk, is used as a mixing medium in various Prakarayoga formulations. It provides a palatable way to administer herbal medicines to children to boost immunity.
15) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the traditional Indian system of medicine that forms the background for Prakarayoga. It includes a wide range of treatments aimed at enhancing natural resistance and overall health.
16) Powder:
Powdered herbs are commonly used in Prakarayoga formulations. These are mixed with adjuvants like honey, ghee, or milk to administer to children for boosting immunity and preventing diseases.
17) Kapha:
Kapha represents one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with elements of water and earth. Early infancy is considered Kapha dominant, making children vulnerable to Kapha-related diseases that Prakarayoga aims to prevent.
18) Mula:
Mula refers to medicinal roots used in various Prakarayoga formulations. The roots, such as those of Vaca, are combined with other herbs to boost immunity in children.
19) Vilanga (Vilamga):
Vilanga is one of the medicinal substances mentioned in Prakarayoga. It is noted for its digestive and immune-boosting properties.
20) Birth:
The term birth refers to the starting point of the Prakarayoga schedule. Ayurvedic practitioners administer specific formulations right from birth to enhance the innate immunity of the child.
21) Abda:
[see source text or glossary: Abda]
22) Agni:
Agni in Ayurveda refers to digestive fire. Prakarayoga formulations are designed to improve Agni, thereby enhancing digestion and overall immunity in children.
23) Asha (Asa):
Asha S. is the assistant professor who authored the review article on Prakarayoga and its effects on children's immunity, highlighting Ayurvedic methods of immune enhancement.
24) Substance:
A substance in the context of Prakarayoga refers to any natural or herbal ingredient used in formulating the medicinal combinations aimed at boosting immunity.
25) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenative treatments in Ayurveda. Rasayana drugs in Prakarayoga aim to nourish and renew bodily tissues, thereby enhancing immunity and general health.
26) Amalaka:
Amalaka, or Indian gooseberry, is used in multiple Prakarayoga formulations. It is known for its rich Vitamin C content and immune-boosting properties.
27) Magadhi:
Magadhi is an herb included in Prakarayoga formulations for its digestive and medicinal properties.
28) Pushpa (Puspa):
Pushpa often refers to flowers used in Ayurvedic formulations. Various medicinal flowers are ingredients in Prakarayoga for their therapeutic effects.
29) Musta (Mushta):
Musta, or nut grass, is included in some Prakarayoga formulations. It possesses digestive and immunomodulatory properties suitable for enhancing children's health.
30) Patha:
Patha is a medicinal herb used in Prakarayoga formulations for its therapeutic benefits, particularly in enhancing immunity.
31) Bilva (Vilva):
Vilva, or bael, is used in multiple Prakarayoga formulations from infancy. It is noted for its various medicinal properties.
32) Masha (Masa, Ma-sha):
Masha, equivalent to 1.5 grams, is a unit of measure used in Ayurveda to prescribe dosages. In Prakarayoga, dosages are adjusted based on the child's age, and Masha is used as a reference.
33) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the imbalance or disturbance of doshas in the body. Prakarayoga works to correct dosha vitiation, particularly Kapha in infants, to maintain health and enhance immunity.
34) Bhunimba (Bhu-nimba):
Bhunimba is an herb used in some Prakarayoga formulations. It is known for its immune-boosting and medicinal properties.
35) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali, or long pepper, is included in Prakarayoga formulations for its digestive and immunomodulatory effects.
36) Krishna (Krsna):
Krishna is a term that refers to black pepper, an ingredient included in Prakarayoga for its warming and immune-boosting properties.
37) Dipyaka:
Dipyaka is one of the herbs used in various Prakarayoga formulations due to its digestive and immune-enhancing properties.
38) Abhaya:
Abhaya, or Terminalia chebula, is a medicinal herb used in Prakarayoga formulations for its health benefits, including enhancing immunity.
39) Capala:
Capala is noted in some Prakarayoga formulations for its medicinal properties that aid in boosting immunity.
40) Ananta (Anamta):
[see source text or glossary: Anantha]
41) Shariba (Sariba):
Sariba is an herb included in Prakarayoga formulations. It is known for its health benefits and its role in enhancing immunity.
42) Mastu (Mashtu):
Mastu refers to a medicinal fluid used as an adjuvant in various Prakarayoga formulations, aiding in the administration of herbs.
43) Ratti:
Ratti is a unit of measure in Ayurvedic medicine, approximately 125 mg. In Prakarayoga, dosage increases monthly using Ratti as the base measure.
44) House:
House symbolizes protection in the context of Prakarayoga, akin to how these medicinal formulations protect children from diseases.
45) Vyadhikshamatva (Vyadhiksamatva):
[see source text or glossary: Vyadhiksamatva]
46) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological studies explore the interactions of drugs and their medicinal properties. Research on Prakarayoga has shown its effectiveness in enhancing immunity through its pharmacological actions.
47) Kaumarabhritya (Kaumarabhrtya, Kaumara-bhritya):
Kaumarabhritya is the branch of Ayurveda focused on pediatrics. Prakarayoga falls under this category, addressing the unique immunity needs of children.
48) Sahajabala (Sahaja-bala):
[see source text or glossary: Sahaja-bala]
49) Trayamana:
[see source text or glossary: Trayamana]
50) Punarnava (Punar-nava):
[see source text or glossary: Punarnava]
51) Dhanyaka:
[see source text or glossary: Dhanyaka]
52) Tirupati (Thirupati, Tiruppati):
Tirupati is a city in Andhra Pradesh, India, where the author Asha S. is an assistant professor at the S.V. Ayurvedic College.
53) Medicine:
In Ayurveda, medicine includes natural and herbal formulations such as Prakarayoga, designed to prevent disease and boost immunity, particularly in children.
54) Draksha (Draksa):
[see source text or glossary: Draksha]
55) Citraka:
[see source text or glossary: Citraka]
56) Trikatu (Tri-katu):
[see source text or glossary: Trikatu]
57) Kalinga (Kalimga):
[see source text or glossary: Kalinga]
58) Ambhoda (Ambhas-da):
[see source text or glossary: Ambhoda]
59) Jalada (Jala-da):
[see source text or glossary: Jalada]
60) Sahaja (Saha-ja):
[see source text or glossary: Sahaja]
61) Malati:
[see source text or glossary: Malati]
62) Dhatri (Dhatr):
[see source text or glossary: Dhatri]
63) Brahmi:
[see source text or glossary: Brahmi]
64) Talisha (Talisa):
[see source text or glossary: Talisa]
65) Andhra (Amdhra):
Andhra Pradesh is a state in India where the S.V. Ayurvedic College, where the author Asha S. works, is located.
66) Kutaca:
[see source text or glossary: Kutaca]
67) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]
68) Nagara (Naga-ra):
Nagara is one of the ingredients used in Prakarayoga. It plays a role in enhancing the immunity of children through its medicinal properties.
69) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are the bioenergies in Ayurveda that need to be in balance for good health. Prakarayoga aims to correct dosha vitiation, particularly Kapha, in children.
70) Patra:
Patra refers to leaves of medicinal plants used in Ayurvedic formulations. In Prakarayoga, various leaves like Talisa Patra are included for their therapeutic properties.
71) Hingu (Himgu):
Hingu, or asafetida, is a spice included in Prakarayoga for its digestive and immunity-boosting properties.
72) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the seven tissues in Ayurveda. Prakarayoga aims to enhance the quality of Dhatus by improving digestion and immunity in children.
73) India:
India is the country where Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine that includes Prakarayoga, originated and flourishes.
74) Valka:
[see source text or glossary: Valka]
75) Taru:
[see source text or glossary: Taru]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 156]