Role of stanya shodhak mahakashaya wsr to childand#039;s development
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Role of stanya shodhak mahakashaya wsr to child's development
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Dr. Swatika, Dr. Om Prakash Sharma, Dr. Naresh Kumar Garg, Dr. Nikita Panwar and Dr. Monika
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Role of stanya shodhak mahakashaya wsr to child's development
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202212-25398
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Breast milk is recognized as the optimal source of nutrition for neonates and infants, facilitating their development and transition from the womb to the world. Its unique composition evolves to meet the infant's changing needs, playing a critical role in immune support and growth. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is not only encouraged for optimal nutrition but is also a prime factor in reducing child mortality rates. However, Ayurveda underscores that the quality of breast milk can be compromised by the mother's lifestyle and dietary choices, leading to various health complications in infants.
The Concept of Mahakashaya: A Nutritional Insight
One significant concept outlined in Ayurveda is that of Mahakashaya, as described by Acharya Charak. This refers to a group of 500 herbs classified into 50 groups, each containing ten herbs that can be prepared into decoctions for therapeutic benefits. These decoctions are categorized based on their health effects and therapeutic actions in the body. Specifically, Mahakashayas serve to purify the body, enhance tissue strength, and support both internal and external health. This classification is particularly important for understanding how various herbal remedies can be utilized to cleanse and optimize maternal health, thereby influencing the quality of breast milk.
Understanding Stanya Shodhak: Purification of Breast Milk
The process of Stanya Shodhak is vital in the Ayurveda framework, referring to the purification of breast milk to mitigate the effects of vitiated Doshas (functional regulatory factors in the body). When a mother's lifestyle leads to imbalances in these Doshas, the consequent effect is undesirable changes in breast milk, which can adversely affect the child. The treatment for vitiated breast milk involves a course of herbal decoctions, emesis, and purgation, ensuring the mother regains balance and subsequently produces healthier milk. The approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of maternal health and child growth, highlighting the role of the mother in providing optimal nourishment through her breast milk.
Etiopathogenesis of Breast Milk Disorders
Ayurveda identifies several etiological factors that contribute to the vitiation of breast milk, classifying them into nutritional, physical, and psychological causes. For instance, the consumption of incompatible foods, over-eating, lack of exercise, and emotional distress can negatively affect milk quality. These stressors can lead to various milk disorders, such as Vairasya (delayed growth), Ruksha (loss of energy), and other complications that manifest in the infant. Acknowledging these factors is essential in Ayurvedic practices to address and rectify the implications of poor maternal health on infant nutrition and well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, Ayurveda emphasizes the significance of recognizing and managing the health of the lactating mother to ensure the quality of breast milk, which directly impacts the health and development of her child. The ancient texts underscore that while breast milk is the most complete nutrition for infants, it may become vitiated due to the mother's inappropriate dietary choices and lifestyle. Therefore, systematic purification through Mahakashayas and adherence to Ayurvedic principles can restore the nutritional value of breast milk, safeguarding infant health, promoting growth, and preventing potential developmental issues.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Mahakashaya in Ayurveda and its significance?
Mahakashaya is a concept described by Acharya Charak, consisting of 500 herbs grouped into 50 categories. These decoctions help cleanse and strengthen the body, contributing to overall health and treating morbidities.
How does breast milk impact a child's development?
Breast milk is essential for infants, providing nutrition that supports their growth. However, its quality may be compromised by the mother's lifestyle, leading to various health issues in children based on the predominance of Dosha.
What factors can vitiate breast milk according to Ayurveda?
Factors include improper diet, over-eating, physical and psychological stress, and even environmental aspects. These can lead to various disorders in breast milk, affecting the child's health.
What types of milk disorders are identified in Ayurveda?
Ayurveda identifies eight milk disorders related to vitiated Dosha, including symptoms like delayed growth, anemia, discoloration of the body, and excessive salivation, impacting the child's overall well-being.
What treatments are recommended for vitiated breast milk?
The treatment includes purifying methods like emesis and purgation for the mother, along with the use of specific decoctions to cleanse her milk, ensuring that it is safe for infant consumption.
Why is it crucial to purify breast milk before feeding infants?
Purifying breast milk is essential as vitiated milk can lead to various developmental issues in infants. Ensuring the milk is free from excess Dosha promotes better growth and health for the child.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Role of stanya shodhak mahakashaya wsr to childand#039;s development”. 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) Milk:
The primary source of nutrition for neonates and infants, breast milk is crucial for their growth and development. It contains essential nutrients, antibodies, and growth-promoting properties that help infants transition from the womb to the external environment. The quality of milk directly influences the health and well-being of the child.
2) Stanya:
In Ayurveda, 'Stanya' refers to breast milk. It is recognized as a vital component for the nourishment of infants. Stanya's quality is essential, and any vitiation of this substance can lead to health issues in children. Understanding its properties helps in addressing potential morbidities arising from its consumption.
3) Vitiation (Vitiated):
'Vitiation' refers to the alteration or impairment of a substance, leading to its degraded state. In the context of breast milk, vitiation occurs due to the mother's improper diet or lifestyle, leading to adverse health effects on the child, necessitating purification through Ayurvedic methods.
4) Dosha (Dosa):
An essential concept in Ayurveda, 'Dosha' represents the three fundamental bodily energies: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each Dosha governs various physiological and psychological functions. The balance or imbalance of these Doshas directly affects health, and their vitiation can significantly influence the quality of breast milk.
5) Mahakashaya (Mahakasaya, Maha-kashaya):
'Mahakashayas' is the plural form of Mahakashaya, referring to groups of medicinal herbs used in Ayurvedic practice. These herbal formulations can help in the cleansing and healing of the vitiated qualities of breast milk, thus promoting better health outcomes for nursing infants.
6) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
'Dravyaguna' is the branch of Ayurveda that studies the properties and effects of medicinal substances (Dravyas). It plays a crucial role in understanding how various herbs and compounds can be utilized to purify and enhance the qualities of breast milk and treat associated disorders in children.
7) Science (Scientific):
'Science' embodies the pursuit of knowledge through observation, experimentation, and analysis. Within Ayurveda, scientific methods can validate traditional practices, especially in assessing the efficacy of herbal treatments and the nutritional value of breast milk, advancing the understanding of child health.
8) Dhatri (Dhatr):
In Ayurveda, 'Dhatri' refers to the wet nurse or mother who lactates. The health and lifestyle of the Dhatri directly influence the quality of breast milk. Proper care and dietary choices by the Dhatri are critical for the nourishment and development of the child.
9) Drug:
'Drugs' refer to natural or synthetic substances that bring about physiological or therapeutic effects when introduced into the body. In the context of this article, drugs derived from Ayurvedic principles are significant for treating disorders arising from vitiated breast milk and ensuring child health.
10) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is the ancient system of medicine from India, emphasizing a holistic approach to health through balance in body, mind, and spirit. It provides insights into nutrition, lifestyle, and herbal remedies necessary for maintaining the quality of breast milk and promoting child development.
11) Kapha:
'Kapha' is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities such as heaviness, stability, and moisture. It governs structures and fluids in the body. An excess or imbalance of Kapha may lead to vitiation of breast milk, affecting a child's health adversely.
12) Blood:
In Ayurveda, 'blood' plays a vital role in health as it nourishes tissues and carries nutrients throughout the body. The quality of blood, influenced by the Dhatri's diet and lifestyle, can directly affect the composition of breast milk and subsequently impact the child’s growth.
13) Purification:
'Purification' in Ayurveda involves cleansing substances of impurities or vitiations. This process is critical in enhancing the quality of breast milk by ensuring that it is free from harmful Doshas, thereby safeguarding the child's nutritional intake and preventing associated health issues.
14) Bitter:
The term 'bitter' describes one of the six tastes recognized in Ayurveda. Bitter herbs or substances have detoxifying and cleansing properties, which can help purify vitiated breast milk. Including bitter-tasting medicines can influence the quality of Stanya positively for infant health.
15) Pitta:
'Pitta' is another of the three Doshas in Ayurveda associated with metabolism, digestion, and transformation within the body. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to excess heat and inflammation, affecting the quality of breast milk and potentially causing health issues for the infant.
16) Vata:
'Vata' is the Dosha responsible for movement and communication in the body. It governs bodily functions like breathing, circulation, and nerve impulses. An imbalance of Vata may lead to disturbances in both the Dhatri's milk quality and the child's overall health.
17) Kiratatikta (Kirata-tikta):
Kiratatikta, also known as Swertia chirata, is a bitter herb used in Ayurveda for its beneficial properties. It is part of the Stanya Shodhana Mahakashaya, supporting the purification and enhancement of breast milk, which aids in the child's proper nutrition and health.
18) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
The term 'anti-biotic' denotes substances that inhibit the growth of or destroy bacteria. In Ayurveda, certain herbs considered to have antibiotic properties can assist in addressing infections and maintaining the purity of breast milk, thereby enhancing the nutritional safety for infants.
19) Mahaushadha (Maha-aushadha, Mahausadha):
Mahausadha refers to potent medicinal herbs with strong therapeutic efficacy. These herbs contribute to the treatment of various ailments and are used in formulations that can purify and nourish breast milk, thus ensuring the health of the child who consumes it.
20) Cleansing:
'Cleansing' involves the removal of impurities or harmful elements from a substance. In the context of Ayurveda, cleansing is vital for ensuring that breast milk remains wholesome and free from vitiation, promoting optimal health and development in infants.
21) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata was an ancient Ayurvedic scholar whose texts contributed significantly to the understanding of medicinal herbs and treatments. His observations on the purification of breast milk through dietary adjustments and herbal remedies have influenced practices aimed at improving child health.
22) Suradaru (Sura-daru):
Suradaru, also known as Cedrus deodara, is an Ayurvedic herb recognized for its anti-inflammatory and stabilizing properties. This herb is valued in formulations for Stanya Shodhana, aiding in the purification of breast milk and enhancing the overall health of infants.
23) Medicine:
Medicines in Ayurveda are derived from natural sources, formulated to address specific health issues. Here, medicines target the purification of breast milk and tackle the imbalances affecting both the Dhatri and the nursing infant's health.
24) Kashyapa (Kasyapa, Kashya-pa):
Kashyapa refers to an ancient sage in Ayurveda, known for his teachings on medicine and maternal health. His insights on the importance of Purification for breast milk and the role of the Dhatri have guided practices involving nourishment and treatment for infants.
25) Snehana:
Snehana indicates a process of oleation in Ayurveda, often involving the application of medicated oils. This practice is important in the context of purifying the Dhatri’s milk through promoting healthy digestion and nourishment for the child, enhancing the quality of breast milk.
26) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or clarified butter, is an essential substance in Ayurveda, known for its nourishing and healing properties. It is often used in various preparations aimed at purifying breast milk and supporting the health of mothers and infants in Ayurvedic practices.
27) Sariva (Shariva):
Sariva, commonly known as Hemidesmus indicus, is an herb used in Ayurveda for its blood-purifying and cooling properties. It is beneficial in the context of Stanya Shodhana, promoting the cleansing of breast milk and assisting in the healthy development of infants.
28) Indian:
The term 'Indian' relates to the rich cultural and historical context from which Ayurveda originates. Indian traditional medicine provides valuable insights into nutrition, maternal care, and child development, emphasizing the importance of wholesome practices for the well-being of mothers and their children.
29) Karma (Karman):
In Ayurveda, 'Karma' refers to an action or treatment process aimed at achieving specific health outcomes. Within the context of maternal care, karmic practices include herbal decoctions and diet adjustments to purify the breast milk and enhance child health.
30) Murva:
Murva, or Clematis triloba, is an Ayurvedic herb recognized for its therapeutic effects, particularly concerning fevers and digestive health. It features in formulations that support the purification of breast milk, ensuring that infants receive the necessary nutrients without adverse effects.
31) Musta (Mushta):
Musta, or Cyperus rotundus, is an herb used in Ayurveda for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps purify breast milk, thus contributing to the overall health of infants by ensuring proper nutrition and reducing possible gastrointestinal disturbances.
32) Patha:
Patha refers to the herb Cissampelos pareira, utilized in Ayurvedic practices for its medicinal properties. Important in Stanya Shodhana, Patha aids in cleansing and improving the nutritive qualities of breast milk, facilitating better health outcomes for infants.
33) Food:
In Ayurveda, 'food' encompasses not just nourishment but also the quality and compatibility of consumed items. A mother’s diet is crucial for producing wholesome breast milk. Understanding the impact of food choices on milk quality can help mitigate health issues in infants.
34) Diet:
The term 'diet' refers to the overall food and beverage intake of an individual. In Ayurvedic philosophy, a balanced diet is essential for lactating mothers to ensure that they produce high-quality breast milk that supports the optimal growth and development of their children.
35) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, commonly known as Guduchi, is an Ayurvedic herb recognized for its immunomodulatory and rejuvenating properties. It plays a significant role in formulations targeting the purification of breast milk, significantly contributing to improving overall health in infants.
36) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale, known as ginger, is an important herb in Ayurveda with digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It contributes to the quality of breast milk by enhancing digestion in the mother, thus ensuring that the milk provides optimal nutrition for infants.
37) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, or Musta, is a significant herb in Ayurveda recognized for its effectiveness in digestive health. Its use in Stanya Shodhana aids in purifying breast milk, positively impacting the nutrition and health of nursing infants.
38) Stanyashodhana (Stanyasodhana, Stanya-shodhana):
Stanya-shodhana is the Ayurvedic process of purifying breast milk. This practice involves dietary adjustments and the use of specific herbs aimed at removing vitiations, thus ensuring that infants receive wholesome and nutritious milk necessary for proper growth and development.
39) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response occurring due to harmful stimuli, such as infections or injuries. In Ayurveda, inflammation can affect both the quality of breast milk and the health of the child. Addressing underlying inflammatory conditions is vital for ensuring the wellbeing of infants.
40) Shatapushpa (Satapuspa, Shata-pushpa):
Shatapushpa refers to the herb Anethum sowa, valued in Ayurveda for its digestive and carminative properties. This herb can be included in preparations aimed at enhancing breast milk quality, thus benefiting the nutritional intake of breastfeeding infants.
41) Sutrasthana (Sutra-sthana):
Sutrasthana is a division within classical Ayurvedic texts primarily focused on foundational principles of treatment and health. The teachings here inform practices concerning maternal health and child nutrition, particularly the implications of breast milk quality and its restoration.
42) Daurgandhya:
Daurgandhya refers to a condition of foul-smelling milk due to its vitiated qualities. This adversely affects infants’ health, leading to various disorders. Recognizing this condition is critical in Ayurvedic practice to ensure that proper purification methods can be employed.
43) Abhishyandi (Abhisyandi):
Abhishyandi are substances in Ayurveda that are heavy and cause a clogging effect; they may hinder digestion and assimilation. Avoiding such foods can help prevent vitiation of breast milk, ensuring that it remains nutritious for the child.
44) Katurohini (Katu-rohini):
Katurohini, or Picrorhiza kurroa, is an Ayurvedic herb noted for its purifying and restorative properties. It has applications in Stanya Shodhana to enhance the quality of breast milk and thereby support infant health and development.
45) Salivation:
Salivation pertains to the secretion of saliva, which can be influenced by various factors, including the taste properties of breast milk. Imbalances in the mother's diet can result in abnormal salivation patterns in both the mother and the infant, necessitating attention.
46) Suffering:
Suffering denotes the distress experienced by infants due to health complications arising from poor-quality breast milk. Addressing the root causes of suffering, such as dietary issues in the mother, is crucial for restoring health and well-being in the child.
47) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari, or Asparagus racemosus, is an important herb in Ayurveda known for its supportive role in female health, particularly in enhancing breast milk quality. Its use is beneficial in creating nourishing breast milk that fosters the growth and wellbeing of infants.
48) Knowledge:
In Ayurveda, 'knowledge' encompasses the understanding of health principles, treatment methods, and the dynamics between diet, lifestyle, and well-being. It is crucial for healthcare practitioners to apply this knowledge in addressing the challenges connected to breastfeeding and enhancing the quality of Stanya.
49) Observing:
Observing refers to the practice of monitoring and assessing health conditions, particularly in infants affected by vitiated breast milk. Through careful observation, Ayurvedic practitioners can identify imbalances and tailor treatments to restore health and proper development.
50) Vaivarnya:
Vaivarnya signifies a discoloration syndrome associated with vitiated breast milk, often linked with Pitta imbalance. Children suffering from this condition may exhibit aberrations in skin color and other symptoms, highlighting the importance of managing maternal health for optimal child development.
51) Picchila:
Picchila refers to a condition of milk characterized by its excessively viscous and sticky texture, which can pose difficulties in digestion for infants. This owes to the imbalanced Kapha Dosha associated with the mother's dietary habits, requiring corrective measures.
52) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana involves the process of purification, especially within Ayurvedic practice. In the context of breast milk, Shodhana aims to cleanse and restore balance in Stanya, crucial for ensuring that infants receive safe and nutritious milk necessary for their healthy development.
53) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a well-known Ayurvedic formulation composed of three fruits, recognized for its potent detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. It plays a significant role in Shodhana processes to restore the purity of breast milk and support the overall health of nursing mothers.
54) Vairasya:
Vairasya denotes a condition associated with vitiated breast milk linked to Vata imbalance, observed in infants as growth delays and energy loss. It necessitates attention to maternal practices and dietary choices to enhance the quality of nursing.
55) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweating refers to the body's mechanism of temperature regulation and detoxification. Excessive sweating can be a side effect of vitiated breast milk, linked with Pitta imbalances, indicating the need for dietary adjustments in the Dhatri to ensure healthy milk quality.
56) Vatsaka:
Vatsaka, or Holarrhena antidysenterica, is an Ayurvedic herb used for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating gastrointestinal disorders. Its benefits extend to purifying breast milk, making it suitable for infant consumption and promoting better health outcomes.
57) Madhava:
Madhava refers to an ancient Ayurvedic scholar whose contributions have significantly influenced the medical understanding of maternal and infant health. His teachings inform contemporary practices regarding the effects of diet and lifestyle on breast milk quality.
58) Pittaja (Pitta-ja):
Pittaja denotes issues caused by Pitta imbalances, particularly concerning breast milk. Its association with inflammation and excess heat can lead to numerous health complications in infants, highlighting the need for careful management of the mother’s dietary intake.
59) Quality:
Quality in the context of breast milk refers to its nutritional value and suitability for infant consumption. Ensuring high-quality Stanya is vital for preventing health problems in infants and promoting their overall growth and development.
60) Disease:
Disease refers to any abnormal condition negatively impacting health. In Ayurveda, various diseases arising from faulty breast milk highlight the necessity for proper nourishment and care during lactation to mitigate potential health issues in infants.
61) Species:
Species refers to a group of organisms sharing common characteristics. In Ayurvedic perspectives, understanding the specific properties of various medicinal plants from different species is essential for formulating effective treatments, especially for purifying breast milk.
62) Account:
An 'account' in this context relates to the detailed descriptions and explanations provided in Ayurvedic texts about the qualities and effects of various herbs and treatments. It forms the basis for informed practices in maternal care and child health.
63) Jaggery:
Jaggery is a traditional sweetener made from sugarcane or palm sap, often used in Ayurveda. It is noted for its nourishing properties, but its consumption in inappropriate quantities can lead to the vitiation of breast milk, affecting the health of infants.
64) Anxiety:
Anxiety refers to a mental state characterized by worry or apprehension, which can negatively impact maternal health. In Ayurveda, high levels of anxiety are believed to vitiate breast milk, thereby affecting the infant's well-being and growth.
65) Animal:
Animals, when referenced here, highlight the dietary components that can affect breast milk quality. Certain meats may cause imbalances in the Dhatri, impacting the nutritional status of the milk and subsequently the infant's health.
66) Ruksha (Ruksa):
'Ruksha' signifies a dry quality associated with Vata imbalance. Milk characterized by Ruksha may indicate nutritional deficiencies, leading to adverse effects on the child. Addressing this quality is crucial for promoting adequate nourishment and development.
67) Kshira (Ksira):
Kshira refers to milk in a broader sense within Ayurveda. Its quality is paramount, as it impacts the health of infants. Recognizing and managing the qualities of Kshira can lead to enhanced health outcomes for those consuming it.
68) Pinasa:
Pinasa refers to nasal disorders or congestion commonly associated with vitiated milk quality. Understanding these symptoms enables practitioners to address underlying dietary or lifestyle factors affecting the Dhatri, thus promoting better health in infants.
69) Shunthi (Shumthi, Sumthi, Sunthi):
Sunthi, or Zingiber officinale, is ginger known for its medicinal properties. It supports digestion and enhances breast milk quality, reflecting the importance of ingredient selection in formulating beneficial diets for lactating mothers.
70) Edema (Oedema):
Oedema refers to swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid in body tissues. In infants, it may arise from consuming vitiated breast milk due to excess Kapha, necessitating treatment for both the mother to normalize the milk's balance and support child health.
71) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is typically a surname in Indian culture but doesn't have a specific relation to Ayurvedic context in this document. However, practitioners or scholars named Sharma may contribute to the discourse on maternal and child health.
72) Desire:
Desire indicates a wish or appetite for something. In terms of breastfeeding, a lack of desire in infants to suckle may signal issues with the quality of breast milk, necessitating a review of the mother's health and lifestyle.
73) Mudga:
Mudga, or Vigna radiata, is a mung bean commonly used in Ayurvedic remedies. Its nourishing properties can beneficially influence the lactation process, improving the quality of breast milk when included in a Dhatri's diet.
74) Tikta:
Tikta signifies the bitter taste in Ayurveda, associated with specific health benefits such as detoxification. Incorporating Tikta herbs into the diet of lactating mothers can enhance the purification of their breast milk, ensuring better health for infants.
75) Kumar:
Kumar typically refers to a boy or young child in Sanskrit. In this document, it signifies a focus on child health and nutrition, emphasizing the effects of breast milk quality on youthful development.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 96]
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