The review of garbhini shotha (oedema in pregnancy) in ayurveda
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: The review of garbhini shotha (oedema in pregnancy) in ayurveda
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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Savita Poshatti Gopod*
Research Officer (Ay) Scientist -1, RARISD, Vijayawada
K.Anumol
Research Officer (Ay) Scientist -1, RARISD, Vijayawada
K.Midhuna Mohan
Research Officer (Ay) Scientist -1, RARISD, Vijayawada
C.Murali Krishna
Research Officer (Ay) Scientist -3, RARISD, Vijayawada
G.Babu
Assistant Director-in-Charge, RARISD, Vijayawada
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: The review of garbhini shotha (oedema in pregnancy) in ayurveda
Year: 2019
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Pregnancy, often regarded as a beautiful and fulfilling phase of a woman's life, presents various challenges, including complications like Garbhini Shotha, or oedema during pregnancy. Defined in Ayurveda as a significant complication or Upadrava mentioned in classic texts such as Harit Samhita and Kashyap Samhita, Garbhini Shotha poses risks to both maternal and fetal health. Despite advancements in modern medicine that predominantly offer symptomatic treatments with potential side effects, Ayurvedic practices emphasize a more holistic approach to address the underlying causes of this condition.
Understanding Garbhini Shotha
Garbhini Shotha, although not explicitly outlined in the Charaka Samhita, is acknowledged within the context of Shotha (swelling) due to factors related to pregnancy. The rising incidence of oedema during pregnancy can be attributed to various causes including preeclampsia, anaemia, and hypoproteinemia. In traditional Ayurvedic texts, an understanding of Shotha is essential for effective management. According to Ayurvedic principles, the alteration in a woman’s physiology during pregnancy influences the formation and movement of doshas (body energies), leading to potential complications such as Garbhopadrava, which in turn can exhibit symptoms of swelling and discomfort.
Therapeutic Approaches in Ayurveda
The Ayurvedic approach to managing Garbhini Shotha focuses on preventive and therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring balance within the body. Key strategies include dietary modifications, such as a protein-rich but salt-restricted diet, and the incorporation of herbal remedies with diuretic properties like Punarnava, Gokshura, and Devadaru. These herbs help alleviate symptoms through their Shothaghna properties (reducing swelling) and also support overall health during pregnancy. Additionally, maintaining adequate rest, utilizing sedatives to manage emotional factors, and implementing adjustments in daily activities contribute to improving maternal wellbeing and mitigating oedema symptoms.
Conclusion
In summary, Garbhini Shotha remains a significant concern during pregnancy, requiring a nuanced understanding of both its causes and treatments. The review of classical texts reveals that a combination of lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and the careful use of supportive herbs can effectively manage oedema with minimal risks to the mother and fetus. By adhering to Ayurvedic principles, pregnant women can optimize their health and wellbeing, ensuring a more comfortable pregnancy experience while mitigating complications associated with Garbhini Shotha. The holistic nature of Ayurvedic treatment offers a promising alternative to purely symptomatic approaches prevalent in modern medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Garbhini Shotha and its significance during pregnancy?
Garbhini Shotha refers to edema during pregnancy, considered a complication. It highlights the health impacts on both mother and fetus, necessitating careful monitoring and treatment to prevent further complications during the delicate phase of pregnancy.
How does Ayurveda approach the treatment of Garbhini Shotha?
Ayurveda emphasizes Nidana Parivarjan (avoidance of causes) and treatments like Kwatha prepared from herbs such as Punarnava and Devadaru, which possess Shothaghna (anti-edema) properties. This helps mitigate the edema without harmful side effects.
What are the common causes of Garbhini Shotha during pregnancy?
Common causes include digestive issues leading to imbalances in Doshas. Factors such as high salt intake, irregular sleep, and insufficient physical activity can exacerbate the condition, leading to fluid retention and swelling in pregnant women.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “The review of garbhini shotha (oedema in pregnancy) in ayurveda”. 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) Shotha (Sotha):
Shotha refers to swelling or inflammation, a condition extensively discussed in various Ayurveda texts. In the context of pregnancy, Garbhini Shotha specifically addresses oedema experienced by pregnant women, detailing causes, symptoms, and Ayurvedic treatments to mitigate the condition [see source text or glossary: Shotha].
2) Garbhini:
The term Garbhini in Ayurveda is used to refer to a pregnant woman. Throughout texts like Kashyapa Samhita and Charaka Samhita, Garbhini appears often, focusing on prenatal care, complications, and specific treatments tailored for conditions such as Garbhini Shotha [see source text or glossary: Garbhini].
3) Edema (Oedema):
Edema, medically known as swelling due to fluid retention, is termed Garbhini Shotha in Ayurveda when it occurs during pregnancy. It is managed through dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and herbal treatments to ensure maternal and fetal health [see source text or glossary: Edema].
4) Samhita:
Samhita refers to classical compilations of Ayurvedic knowledge, such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Kashyapa Samhita. These texts provide detailed descriptions of diseases, their causes, symptoms, and treatments including those specific to pregnancy-related conditions like Garbhini Shotha [see source text or glossary: Samhita].
5) Disease:
Disease in Ayurveda is often attributed to an imbalance in the body's Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Conditions like Garbhini Shotha are seen as complications (Upadrava) of pregnancy, caused by this imbalance, requiring treatments that restore equilibrium and focus on maintaining overall health of the mother [see source text or glossary: Disease].
6) Garbha:
Garbha in Ayurveda signifies the fetus or pregnancy. Many ailments during pregnancy, including Garbhini Shotha (oedema), are termed Garbhopadrava, or complications of pregnancy. Treatment approaches for these include careful management of diet and lifestyle to ensure both maternal and fetal health [see source text or glossary: Garbha].
7) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes a holistic approach to health, including dietary guidelines, herbal treatments, and lifestyle adjustments. It has extensive protocols for antenatal care and managing pregnancy complications like Garbhini Shotha (oedema) through natural and balanced methods [see source text or glossary: Ayurveda].
8) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa in Ayurveda refers to taste, essence, or the essence of food post-digestion which nourishes the body. Proper formation of Ahara Rasa is crucial during pregnancy for both maternal and fetal health, influencing conditions like Garbhini Shotha where improper Rasa formation can lead to complications [see source text or glossary: Rasa].
9) Vata:
Vata is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, representing air and space elements responsible for movement and flow in the body. Imbalance in Vata is identified as a primary cause of Shotha (swelling) during pregnancy, necessitating treatments that pacify Vata to mitigate conditions like Garbhini Shotha [see source text or glossary: Vata].
10) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are the three fundamental bodily bio-elements in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. An imbalance in these Doshas leads to various diseases. For pregnancy-related issues like Garbhini Shotha (oedema), understanding and balancing the specific Doshas involved is key to effective treatment [see source text or glossary: Dosha].
11) Kleda:
Kleda translates to moisture or fluid accumulation in body tissues. Excess Kleda during pregnancy can lead to conditions such as Garbhini Shotha (oedema). Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance this moistness through dietary changes and medicines to reduce fluid retention and swelling [see source text or glossary: Kleda].
12) Shothaghna (Sothaghna, Shotha-ghna):
Shothaghna are substances with anti-inflammatory properties used in Ayurveda to treat Shotha (swelling). Herbs like Punarnava, Devadaru, and Gokshura possess Shothaghna properties and are crucial in the treatment of conditions like Garbhini Shotha (oedema) during pregnancy [see source text or glossary: Shothaghna].
13) Punarnava (Punar-nava):
Punarnava is an Ayurvedic herb recognized for its Shothaghna (anti-inflammatory) and diuretic properties. It is frequently used in formulations to treat Garbhini Shotha (oedema) during pregnancy, helping reduce swelling and fluid retention without adverse side effects [see source text or glossary: Punarnava].
14) Kashyapa (Kasyapa, Kashya-pa, Kashyapanamdana):
Kashyapa is an ancient Ayurvedic sage, credited with writings in the Kashyapa Samhita that focus on pediatrics and gynecology. He extensively discussed Garbhini Shotha (oedema in pregnancy) and its treatment, underscoring dietary and lifestyle adjustments to manage this condition [see source text or glossary: Kashyapa].
15) Medicine:
Medicine in Ayurveda includes a broad range of natural treatments such as herbal formulations, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. For pregnancy-related conditions like Garbhini Shotha, specific herbs like Punarnava and Devadaru are used for their anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects [see source text or glossary: Medicine].
16) Nidana:
Nidana refers to the diagnostic aspect of Ayurveda, focusing on cause (etiology) and diagnosis of diseases. In the context of Garbhini Shotha, Nidana involves identifying dietary and lifestyle factors that could cause this pregnancy complication and applying appropriate treatments [see source text or glossary: Nidana].
17) Dhatu:
Dhatu are the fundamental building blocks or tissues of the body in Ayurveda. Imbalances in Dhatus caused by pregnancy can lead to Garbhini Shotha (oedema). Treatment involves using herbs and dietary adjustments to restore balance and ensure healthy function of these tissues [see source text or glossary: Dhatu].
18) Hetu:
Hetu in Ayurveda refers to the cause or contributory factors of a disease. For Garbhini Shotha (oedema in pregnancy), identifying Hetu such as dietary habits, lifestyle factors, and Dosha imbalance is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment [see source text or glossary: Hetu].
19) Katu:
Katu refers to the pungent taste in Ayurveda, which is said to stimulate digestion and metabolism. Herbs like Punarnava with Katu properties are used in treating Garbhini Shotha to reduce Kleda (fluid accumulation) and balance Doshas responsible for the swelling [see source text or glossary: Katu].
20) Diet:
Diet or Ahara plays a significant role in Ayurveda for maintaining health and treating diseases. For Garbhini Shotha, a specific diet that includes moderate protein and restricted salt intake is recommended to manage oedema along with Ayurvedic herbs and treatments [see source text or glossary: Diet].
21) Upadrava:
Upadrava refers to complications in Ayurveda. Garbhini Shotha is considered an Upadrava of pregnancy, meaning a secondary complication that arises due to the primary condition of pregnancy, necessitating careful management to ensure maternal and fetal health [see source text or glossary: Upadrava].
22) Anartava:
Anartava signifies the absence of menstruation, the first sign of pregnancy in Ayurveda. This condition leads to increased Kleda (moisture), which if unbalanced, can result in Garbhini Shotha, necessitating specific treatments to ensure the health of both mother and fetus [see source text or glossary: Anartava].
23) Dhamani:
Dhamani refers to vessels or channels in the body that carry vital substances like blood. In the context of Garbhini Shotha, the pathology involves the narrowing and obstruction of Dhamanis due to accumulated Kleda, leading to swelling and high blood pressure [see source text or glossary: Dhamani].
24) Tikta:
Tikta is the bitter taste in Ayurveda, beneficial for reducing Kapha and Pitta doshas. Herbs with Tikta rasa, such as Punarnava, are incorporated into treatments for Garbhini Shotha to reduce swelling by eliminating excess fluid and balancing the bodily humors [see source text or glossary: Tikta].
25) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna signifies heat or warmth in Ayurveda, often used to describe the potency (Virya) of a substance. Herbs with Ushna Virya, like Devadaru, are prescribed to treat conditions like Garbhini Shotha where warmth helps reduce fluid retention and swelling [see source text or glossary: Ushna].
26) Virya:
Virya refers to the potency or energy of a medicinal substance in Ayurveda. Herbs with Ushna Virya (hot potency) like Punarnava and Devadaru are used in treating Garbhini Shotha as they help reduce coldness and moisture, which contribute to swelling [see source text or glossary: Virya].
27) Drug:
A drug in Ayurveda is typically a natural herb or mineral substance used for treatment. For Garbhini Shotha, drugs like Punarnava, Devadaru, and Murva are recommended due to their anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and balance-restoring properties [see source text or glossary: Drug].
28) Kashyapasamhita (Kasyapasamhita, Kashyapa-samhita):
Kashyapa-Samhita is an ancient Ayurvedic text attributed to Sage Kashyapa, focusing on pediatrics and gynecology. It includes detailed discussions on pregnancy-related conditions such as Garbhini Shotha and their management through dietary and herbal treatments [see source text or glossary: Kashyapa-samhita].
29) Ashtangahridaya (Astangahrdaya, Ashtanga-hridaya):
Ashtanga Hridaya is a classical Ayurvedic text by Vagbhata, which compiles essential knowledge on Ayurveda. It discusses complications like Garbhini Shotha (oedema) during pregnancy and general treatments for balancing Doshas and maintaining maternal health [see source text or glossary: Ashtanga-hridaya].
30) Madhavanidana (Madhava-nidana):
Madhava Nidana is an ancient Ayurvedic text focusing on diagnosis and pathology of diseases. Although it doesn't directly reference Garbhini Shotha, it provides foundational knowledge on Shotha and its causes, useful in understanding and managing pregnancy swelling [see source text or glossary: Madhava-nidana].
31) Abhishyandi (Abhisyandi):
Abhishyandi foods or substances are those that cause blockages and increase Kapha, leading to conditions like Shotha (swelling). Avoiding Abhishyandi foods is crucial in managing Garbhini Shotha to prevent further fluid retention and complications [see source text or glossary: Abhishyandi].
32) Vijayawada (Vijayavada, Vijaya-vada):
Vijayawada is a city in India where the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute for Skin Disorders (RARISD) is located. Researchers in Vijayawada, like Savita Poshatti Gopod, contribute to studies on Ayurvedic treatments for conditions like Garbhini Shotha [see source text or glossary: Vijayawada].
33) Purvarupa (Purva-rupa):
Purvarupa are the preliminary signs or symptoms of a disease. Identifying Purvarupa for Garbhini Shotha early, such as heaviness or burning sensations, allows for timely intervention to prevent the progression to more severe stages [see source text or glossary: Purvarupa].
34) Kaphaghna (Kapha-ghna):
Kaphaghna refers to substances that reduce Kapha Dosha in Ayurveda. For Garbhini Shotha, herbs like Devadaru and Punarnava with Kaphaghna properties are used to manage the excess fluid retention and swelling characteristic of this condition [see source text or glossary: Kaphaghna].
35) Devadaru (Deva-daru):
Devadaru is an Ayurvedic herb known for its anti-inflammatory (Shothaghna) properties and its ability to purify breast milk (Stanyashodhak). It is used in formulations to treat Garbhini Shotha by reducing fluid retention and balancing Doshas [see source text or glossary: Devadaru].
36) Upadhatu:
Upadhatu in Ayurveda refers to secondary tissues or by-products of Dhatus. For example, Stanya (breast milk) is an Upadhatu of Rasa Dhatu. Ensuring proper Upadhatu function is essential in managing pregnancy complications like Garbhini Shotha [see source text or glossary: Upadhatu].
37) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Ashtanga refers to the eight branches of Ayurveda, encompassing various aspects like internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and gynecology. Texts like Ashtanga Hridaya provide insights into managing conditions like Garbhini Shotha through comprehensive Ayurvedic approaches [see source text or glossary: Ashtanga].
38) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
Hridaya usually refers to the heart in Sanskrit. Ashtanga Hridaya is also a seminal Ayurvedic text by Vagbhata that offers details on numerous health conditions, including pregnancy-related complications like Garbhini Shotha, mentioning different treatment methodologies [see source text or glossary: Hridaya].
39) Madhava:
Madhava is associated with the classical Ayurvedic text Madhava Nidana, which details diagnostic approaches and pathology. This text is critical for understanding conditions like Shotha, although it does not directly discuss Garbhini Shotha [see source text or glossary: Madhava].
40) Tikshna (Tiksna):
Tikshna refers to sharpness or intensity, often used to describe the properties of certain foods and herbs. Excessive intake of Tikshna substances can lead to imbalances causing conditions like Garbhini Shotha and must be moderated during pregnancy [see source text or glossary: Tikshna].
41) Sadhya:
Sadhya indicates a condition that is curable or manageable in Ayurveda. Garbhini Shotha is considered Sadhya if it is detected early, has few and mild symptoms, and responds well to treatment aimed at restoring Dosha balance and overall health during pregnancy [see source text or glossary: Sadhya].
42) Harita:
Harita refers to the ancient Ayurvedic text, Harita Samhita, which includes discussions on different diseases and their treatments. It mentions Garbhini Shotha as a Garbhopadrava and provides guidelines for its management during pregnancy [see source text or glossary: Harita].
43) Stanya:
Stanya refers to breast milk, considered an Upadhatu of Rasa Dhatu in Ayurveda. Proper management of Stanya is essential for overall maternal and fetal health, especially in conditions like Garbhini Shotha, where fluid balance and nourishment are crucial [see source text or glossary: Stanya].
44) Daruna:
Daruna embodies the severe or acute stage of a disease in Ayurveda. Garbhini Shotha should be treated early to prevent it from reaching the Daruna stage, where it becomes more challenging to manage and may lead to serious complications [see source text or glossary: Daruna].
45) Vipaka:
Vipaka is the post-digestive effect of a substance, influencing the doshic balance in the body. Herbs like Punarnava have Katu Vipaka, aiding in the treatment of Garbhini Shotha by balancing Vata and Kapha and thus reducing fluid retention [see source text or glossary: Vipaka].
46) Chardi:
Chardi refers to vomiting in Ayurveda, often a symptom or cause of various ailments. Suppression of natural urges like Chardi can contribute to the development of conditions like Garbhini Shotha by disturbing the body's natural balance [see source text or glossary: Chardi].
47) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, representing fire and water elements. Its imbalance can contribute to conditions like Garbhini Shotha (oedema in pregnancy). Treatments focus on balancing Pitta alongside other Doshas to manage swelling effectively [see source text or glossary: Pitta].
48) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three primary Doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of earth and water. Imbalances in Kapha are significant contributors to conditions like Garbhini Shotha (oedema), and treatments often involve herbs and dietary changes to reduce excess Kapha [see source text or glossary: Kapha].
49) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi is the term for bone tissue in Ayurveda, one of the seven primary Dhatus. Imbalance or issues in Dhatus, including Asthi, can indirectly contribute to broader health issues such as Garbhini Shotha, though not directly mentioned in this context [see source text or glossary: Asthi].
50) Murva:
Murva is an herb with Shothaghna (anti-inflammatory) properties used in Ayurvedic treatments. It's especially recommended for Garbhini Shotha, helping to reduce swelling caused by fluid retention while also supporting overall maternal health during pregnancy [see source text or glossary: Murva].
51) Rakta:
Rakta refers to blood, one of the primary Dhatus in Ayurveda. Imbalances in Rakta can contribute to conditions like Garbhini Shotha. Ayurvedic treatments often aim to purify and balance Rakta to manage swelling and improve overall health [see source text or glossary: Rakta].
52) Ahara:
Ahara is the term for diet or food in Ayurveda, crucial for maintaining health. In pregnancy, Ahara plays a vital role in managing conditions like Garbhini Shotha. Dietary recommendations include reducing salt intake and incorporating protein-rich foods to manage oedema [see source text or glossary: Ahara].
53) Pandu (Pamdu, Pamde):
Pandu is a condition akin to anemia in Ayurveda, characterized by pale complexion and weakness. It can be a contributing factor to Garbhini Shotha (oedema). Managing Pandu often involves dietary changes and herbal treatments to improve blood health and reduce swelling [see source text or glossary: Pandu].
54) India:
India is the origin of Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine still widely practiced today. In India, conditions like Garbhini Shotha are managed using classical texts and treatments, with researchers in places like Vijayawada contributing to expanding this knowledge [see source text or glossary: India].
55) Guru:
Guru refers to heavy or difficult-to-digest foods in Ayurveda. Excessive intake of Guru foods during pregnancy can lead to conditions like Garbhini Shotha by increasing Kapha and causing fluid retention. Moderation is recommended to manage swelling [see source text or glossary: Guru].
56) Gati:
Gati refers to the pace or progression of a disease in Ayurveda. In the case of Garbhini Shotha, monitoring the Gati of disease symptoms helps in evaluating the efficacy of treatments and preventing the condition from reaching severe stages [see source text or glossary: Gati].
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 119]
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