Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Paediatric care through ayurveda
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a review study
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Vicky S. Pawar
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Paediatric care through ayurveda
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20236-27797
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The branch of Ayurveda known as "Kaumarabhritya" focuses on pediatric health care, emphasizing the holistic development and treatment of children. This approach integrates ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with contemporary medical understanding to ensure the healthy growth and well-being of infants and young children. This review discusses significant aspects of Ayurvedic pediatric care, including preventive measures, treatment methodologies, and various therapeutic practices highlighted in classical texts like the Kashyapa Samhita.
The Role of Panchakarma in Pediatric Care
Panchakarma, a comprehensive detoxification and rejuvenation therapy, plays a crucial role in Ayurvedic pediatric care. It encompasses several procedures such as Snehana (oleation), Swedana (sudation), Vamana (therapeutic vomiting), Virechana (therapeutic purgation), Basti (enema), and Nasya (nasal administration). According to the Kashyapa Samhita, these techniques, when appropriately modified for children, can effectively treat various ailments and enhance overall health. Benefits of Panchakarma include strengthening the immune system and improving digestive functions, thereby reducing the incidence of illnesses common in childhood.
The Importance of Rasayana Chikitsa
Rasayana, or rejuvenation therapy, holds significant importance in enhancing the vitality and immunity of children. This form of treatment utilizes specific herbal preparations to bolster the physical and mental strength of pediatric patients. Rasayana compositions, such as Suvarna Bhasma and Triphala, are known for their ability to improve digestion, circulation, and overall health, while also minimizing common disorders in children. These formulations encourage healthy growth, boost immunity, and enhance cognitive functions, making them essential in pediatric care.
Understanding Vedana Adhyaya for Diagnosis
The Vedana Adhyaya section of the Kashyapa Samhita provides valuable insights into the symptomatology of various pediatric diseases. This ancient text describes symptoms that correlate closely with modern medical diagnoses, aiding practitioners in recognizing and understanding childhood ailments. Conditions such as fever, gastrointestinal disturbances, and respiratory issues are addressed through a detailed understanding of symptoms. By correlating these descriptions with contemporary medical knowledge, healthcare providers can achieve more accurate early diagnoses and provide appropriate treatments for children.
Conclusion
The integration of Ayurveda into pediatric care offers a holistic framework for preventing and treating childhood diseases. By utilizing practices such as Swarnaprashana for immunity boosting, Rasayana for overall vitality, and detailed symptom analysis from the Vedana Adhyaya, Ayurvedic principles can be effectively applied in modern healthcare settings. Embracing these ancient methodologies not only aids in reducing morbidity and mortality among children but also supports their healthy growth and development in today's competitive environment. Thus, Ayurveda serves as a valuable resource for pediatric health, promoting well-being and nurturing resilience in young patients.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of Kaumarabhritya in Ayurveda?
Kaumarabhritya is a branch of Ayurveda dedicated to pediatric healthcare, addressing healthy upbringing of infants, curing diseases caused by vitiated breast milk, and ensuring maternal health before and after childbirth.
How does Rasayana therapy benefit children in Ayurvedic care?
Rasayana therapy enhances digestion, immunity, circulation, and overall vitality in children. It prevents common ailments and promotes healthy growth by using specific formulations like Suvarna Bhasma and Brahmi Ghrita.
What does Vedana Adhyaya emphasize in pediatric health?
Vedana Adhyaya, as mentioned by Acharya Kashyapa, provides symptomatology relevant to modern diseases, helping practitioners diagnose and treat various pediatric conditions based on detailed observations and symptom descriptions.
What are the benefits of Swarnaprashana for children?
Swarnaprashana improves immunity, intellect, digestion, and overall health. It is especially beneficial during early childhood, when children's immune systems are still developing.
What is Panchakarma and its role in pediatrics?
Panchakarma consists of detoxification therapies like Snehana and Vamana, which can effectively treat many pediatric disorders, restoring balance in children's bodies.
How do Ayurvedic Dhoop formulations contribute to pediatric care?
Dhoop formulations used in Ayurveda help prevent and treat pediatric diseases by fumigating the environment around children, promoting healthy development and protection from ailments.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Paediatric care through 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) Kashyapa (Kasyapa, Kashya-pa):
Kashyapa is a revered sage in Ayurveda, known for his extensive contributions to pediatric medicine. His teachings emphasize the importance of Kaumarbhritya, a branch of Ayurveda, which focuses on child health and growth. The Kashyapa Samhita comprises essential guidelines that are critical for understanding and treating pediatric diseases based on ancient wisdom.
2) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayanas are rejuvenating substances in Ayurveda designed to enhance longevity, vitality, and immunity. These formulations are particularly emphasized in pediatric care for their role in supporting growth and mitigating health issues, representing a blend of nourishment and therapeutic benefits.
3) Disease:
Diseases encompass a wide range of health issues affecting individuals, often resulting from imbalances within the body. In pediatric care, understanding specific diseases is vital for effective diagnosis and treatment. Ayurveda aims to address the root causes of diseases by restoring balance among the body's doshas and enhancing overall health.
4) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes a holistic approach to health and wellness. It encompasses various treatments and preventative measures, focusing on balancing physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of human health. Ayurvedic principles guide practitioners in developing individualized treatment strategies.
5) Samhita:
Samhita refers to a collection of teachings or scriptures in Ayurveda. For instance, the Kashyapa Samhita contains essential insights on pediatric care, detailing diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures. Understanding these texts is crucial for practitioners to apply Ayurvedic principles effectively for child health.
6) Vedana:
Vedana refers to the study of symptoms and diagnosis of diseases in Ayurveda. In the context of pediatric care, the Vedana Adhyaya in Kashyapa Samhita provides critical insights into recognizing symptoms in children, aiding in accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment without complications.
7) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya is an Ayurvedic therapeutic procedure involving the administration of medicated substances through the nostrils. It is particularly beneficial for addressing upper respiratory conditions and is utilized in children for both treatment and prevention of diseases affecting the head and neck region.
8) Kashyapasamhita (Kasyapasamhita, Kashyapa-samhita):
Kashyapa-samhita is a foundational text in Ayurveda that specifically addresses pediatric health care. Authored by Sage Kashyapa, it provides detailed guidance on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of childhood diseases. Its relevance is recognized in both traditional and modern healthcare practices.
9) Milk:
Milk is a significant food in pediatric nutrition, often viewed as a source of nourishment and vigor for infants. In Ayurveda, the quality and purity of milk are emphasized, as it serves as the primary diet for newborns and directly influences their health and development.
10) Drug:
Drugs in Ayurveda consist of natural substances used for therapeutic purposes. Ayurvedic practitioners select specific herbs, minerals, and formulations based on their properties to restore health and maintain balance within the body. The study and application of these drugs are essential for effective treatment.
11) Suvarna:
Suvarna, or gold, is highly valued in Ayurveda for its presumed health benefits. Practices such as Swarnaprashana involve administering gold preparations to children to enhance immunity, intellect, and physical vitality. Its use signifies the intersection of material and spiritual aspects in Ayurvedic healing.
12) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or clarified butter (ghee), plays a critical role in Ayurveda as a nourishing substance. It is often used as a base for herbal preparations and is noted for its therapeutic properties, supporting digestion and enhancing vitality. In pediatric care, Ghrita is crucial for both nourishment and treatment.
13) Vamana:
Vamana is a purificatory therapy in Ayurveda that involves emesis or induced vomiting. It is particularly effective in treating conditions manifested by excessive Kapha dosha, helping to clear toxins and balance the body. In pediatrics, Vamana is administered cautiously under expert guidance.
14) Basti:
Basti refers to an Ayurvedic therapeutic procedure involving the administration of medicated oils or decoctions rectally. Particularly beneficial for child patients, Basti is known for its nourishing and detoxifying effects, enabling the removal of imbalances while supporting the overall health of children.
15) Study (Studying):
In the context of Ayurveda, study refers to the systematic investigation into health practices, herbal formulations, and treatment methods. By studying classical texts and contemporary research, practitioners can enhance their understanding of Ayurvedic principles and improve patient outcomes, particularly in pediatrics.
16) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to calcined metal preparations in Ayurveda, which are believed to possess therapeutic properties. These forms of minerals are used in medications for enhancement of potency and bioavailability, playing a significant role in addressing various pediatric ailments with enhanced efficacy.
17) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha represents the three fundamental energies in Ayurveda—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—responsible for governing physical, mental, and spiritual health. Imbalances among these doshas are believed to lead to disease. Understanding the doshic constitution is vital for tailored treatments in pediatric and adult care.
18) Vidhi:
Vidhi refers to the methodology or guidelines in Ayurveda for performing treatments and therapies. It encompasses instructions on how to prepare and administer remedies, ensuring that practitioners follow established protocols for safety and efficacy, particularly in sensitive populations like children.
19) Glani:
Glani signifies a state of fatigue or weakness often seen in children during illness. Recognizing signs of Glani is essential, as it indicates the need for intervention and support. Treatment aims to restore energy and vitality through dietary and therapeutic measures.
20) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom in children indicating an underlying health issue. In Ayurveda, managing fever involves understanding its root cause and balancing the doshas. Treatments may include herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and therapies aimed at restoring equilibrium and alleviating symptoms.
21) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is an Ayurvedic herbal formulation consisting of three fruits, traditionally known for its detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. It is regarded as a tonic for the digestive system and is frequently used in pediatric treatments for promoting health and preventing disorders.
22) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated refers to the imbalance or disturbance of doshas, leading to health issues. In Ayurveda, understanding the concept of vitiation is crucial for diagnosing and treating diseases, as it provides insight into the underlying causes of ailments that affect both children and adults.
23) Snehana:
Snehana is a therapeutic process involving oleation or the application of oils in Ayurveda. This treatment style helps in detoxifying the body, promoting relaxation, and enhancing skin texture. It is often applied in pediatric care to ensure comfort and well-being.
24) Brahmi:
Brahmi is an important herb in Ayurveda renowned for its cognitive and memory-enhancing properties. Commonly used in pediatric formulations, Brahmi supports mental development while promoting clarity and focus, making it a key component for children’s health.
25) Medhya:
Medhya refers to herbs and formulations associated with enhancing intelligence and cognitive ability. Medhya Rasayanas, such as Brahmi, are utilized in Ayurveda to support memory and learning in children, reflecting a holistic approach to mental health.
26) Aruci:
Aruchi signifies a lack of appetite, a common symptom in various ailments affecting children. Recognizing Aruchi is essential in Ayurveda, as it serves as a diagnostic indicator, allowing practitioners to tailor treatments that stimulate appetite and restore health.
27) Roga:
Rogas represent diseases or disorders in Ayurveda that require diagnosis and treatment. Understanding Rogas and their manifestations is essential for practitioners to effectively address health challenges, particularly in both acute and chronic pediatric conditions.
28) Diet:
Diet plays a crucial role in Ayurveda, influencing overall health and well-being. An appropriate diet tailored to individual needs is fundamental for children’s growth, immunity, and development. Dietary recommendations focus on balancing doshas and enhancing nutritional intake for optimum health.
29) Gold (Golden):
Gold holds significant value in Ayurveda, particularly for its health benefits when formulated into medicines. Swarnaprashana, the administration of gold in children, is associated with cognitive enhancement, improved immunity, and overall vitality, representing the fusion of material and wellness.
30) Shashtikashali (Sastikasali, Shashtika-shali):
Shashtika-shali refers to a specific variety of rice used in Ayurvedic treatments, especially in swedana procedures. Its application provides therapeutic benefits, such as detoxification and nourishment, making it an integral part of pediatric care and treatment.
31) Shankhapushpi (Sankhapuspi, Samkhapuspi):
Shankhapushpi is an Ayurvedic herb recognized for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It is often employed in pediatric formulations to support mental clarity, memory, and focus, contributing to holistic child development and health.
32) Mandukaparni (Manduka-parni, Mamdukaparni):
Mandukaparni is a revered herb in Ayurveda known for its cognitive enhancing and rejuvenating properties. Often used in pediatric care, it supports memory and mental development, reflecting Ayurveda's commitment to nurturing children's health.
33) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yastimadhu, also known as licorice root, is a prominent herb in Ayurveda valued for its soothing and restorative properties. Its inclusion in pediatric formulations aids digestion and enhances overall health, underscoring its role in comprehensive child care.
34) Salivation:
Salivation signifies the secretion of saliva, often influenced by health conditions. In Ayurveda, understanding salivation patterns is essential for diagnosing oral and digestive issues in children, guiding effective therapeutic interventions.
35) Substance:
Substance refers to the foundational elements in Ayurveda, including herbs and minerals used for therapeutic interventions. Identifying and applying the appropriate substances is essential for addressing specific health issues and achieving balanced health.
36) Shashtika (Sastika):
Shashtika signifies a specific variety of rice prominent in Ayurvedic therapies. Its use, particularly in swedana treatments, highlights the importance of dietary components in shaping health outcomes for children.
37) Parisheka (Pariseka):
Parisheka refers to a form of Ayurvedic therapy involving pouring medicated liquids over the body. This technique has therapeutic value in detoxifying and soothing ailments, contributing to holistic child care processes for health and recovery.
38) Knowledge:
Knowledge in Ayurveda encompasses understanding medical principles, herbal properties, and patient-specific treatment approaches. Practitioners must continuously expand their knowledge base to deliver effective care, particularly in the nuanced field of pediatric health.
39) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a critical symptom often signaling underlying health issues. In Ayurveda, addressing vomiting involves identifying its cause and applying therapeutic remedies to restore balance and alleviate discomfort, especially in children.
40) Pradeha:
Pradeha is a form of swedana, or sweating treatment, indicated in Ayurveda. This therapeutic approach promotes detoxification and alleviates discomfort, particularly in pediatric patients suffering from pain or distress, emphasizing a nurturing healing process.
41) Nagapura (Naga-pura):
Nagpur is a prominent city in India where Ayurvedic practices are actively researched and implemented. The presence of institutions focusing on traditional medicine in Nagpur fosters a deeper understanding and advancement of Ayurvedic knowledge and its applications in modern health care.
42) Cotton:
Cotton is often used in Ayurvedic therapies for preparing pottalis or boluses in swedana treatments. Its natural properties complement therapeutic practices, emphasizing comfort and hygiene in the administration of Ayurvedic remedies, particularly for children.
43) Dhatu:
Dhatu signifies the essential bodily tissues in Ayurveda, crucial for overall health and vitality. Understanding the quality and balance of Dhatus is fundamental for effective treatment, particularly in addressing pediatric health concerns.
44) Kriya:
Kriya refers to actions or practices in Ayurveda, particularly those that promote balance and enhance health. In pediatric care, specific Kriyas are designed to support the growth and development of children through various therapeutic methods.
45) Kandu (Kamdu):
Kandu denotes itching, a symptom often encountered in various dermatological conditions. In Ayurveda, recognizing Kandu is essential for diagnosis, allowing practitioners to tailor treatments that restore skin health and comfort, especially in children.
46) Shali (Sali):
Shali refers to rice in Ayurveda, particularly valued for its nourishing properties. Its inclusion in dietary practices and treatments underscores its role in promoting health and wellbeing, especially for growing children.
47) Vaca:
Vacha is an Ayurvedic herb recognized for its cognitive and digestive benefits. Often utilized in pediatric formulations, it supports mental clarity and aids digestion, contributing to holistic health and development in children.
48) Agni:
Agni represents the digestive fire in Ayurveda, crucial for metabolism and overall health. Balancing Agni is vital for children, as a well-functioning digestive fire supports proper nutrition absorption and promotes growth and development.
49) Nadi (Nadin):
Nadi refers to channels through which energy and consciousness flow in the body according to Ayurvedic principles. Understanding NADIs helps practitioners assess health, enabling tailored interventions that foster healing and balance in pediatric care.
50) Shri (Sr, Sri):
Shri is a term denoting respect and auspiciousness in Ayurvedic and Indian contexts. It reflects the reverence towards the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda and the holistic approach it embodies in promoting health and wellbeing.
51) Rice (Rce):
Rice is a staple food in many cultures and holds significant dietary value in Ayurveda. It is often recommended for children due to its nourishing properties, aiding in growth and providing vital energy for overall health.
52) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological studies evaluate the effects of Ayurvedic substances and treatments through scientific methods. This investigation enhances understanding of how herbal formulas work, supporting traditional practices with evidence-based approaches, particularly crucial in treating pediatric patients.
53) Brahmighrita (Brahmighrta, Brahmi-ghrita):
Brahmi-ghrita is a formulation combining Brahmi (a cognitive enhancing herb) with ghee. This preparation is especially important in pediatric care, offering benefits for brain health, memory enhancement, and overall vitality, demonstrating the integration of nutritional and medicinal approaches in Ayurveda.
54) Annaprashana (Annaprasana, Anna-prashana):
Annaprashana is a crucial ritual in Ayurveda, marking the introduction of solid foods to infants. This practice is symbolically and nutritionally significant, emphasizing the importance of diet in establishing healthy eating habits and promoting growth in young children.
55) Lauhabhasma (Lauha-bhasma):
Lauha-bhasma is an Ayurvedic preparation from iron used for its therapeutic properties. It is commonly recommended for children to support iron supplementation and enhance vitality, exemplifying the application of traditional medicine in addressing nutritional deficiencies.
56) Purification:
Purification is a fundamental aspect of Ayurveda, involving detoxifying the body and restoring balance. Various practices, including Panchakarma, emphasize cleansing to promote health and prevent illness, particularly important in pediatric applications where immune systems must be nurtured.
57) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulated refers to a buildup of doshas, toxins, or imbalances within the body. Detecting accumulated substances is essential in Ayurvedic diagnosis, as it informs the treatment plan to restore health and harmony, especially in children.
58) Inflammation:
Inflammation indicates the body’s response to injury or infection. In Ayurveda, recognizing and addressing inflammation is key to effective treatment, with various herbal remedies designed to reduce inflammation and promote healing in children’s health.
59) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with structure and stability. Imbalances in Kapha can lead to various health issues. Understanding this dosha is crucial in pediatric care, guiding approaches to restore balance and treat related ailments.
60) Rakshoghna (Raksoghna, Rakshas-ghna):
Rakshoghna formulations are used for protective fumigation in Ayurveda, particularly beneficial in pediatric wards to safeguard children from environmental threats. This practice highlights Ayurveda's holistic approach to prevention and health promotion.
61) Mukharoga (Mukha-roga):
Mukharoga specifically refers to disorders affecting the oral cavity in Ayurveda. Understanding Mukharoga symptoms enables practitioners to formulate effective treatments, ensuring that children's oral health problems are addressed promptly and comprehensively.
62) Swallowing:
Swallowing is a fundamental action necessary for nutrition and wellbeing. In Ayurveda, issues related to swallowing can indicate health problems, necessitating an accurate diagnosis to provide effective interventions, especially in children.
63) Kushmanda (Kusmanda, Kushmamda):
Kushmanda is an Ayurvedic herb recognized for its nutritional benefits. It is often included in formulations aimed at improving health and vitality, emphasizing the importance of natural resources in treating pediatric ailments.
64) Cleansing:
Cleansing in Ayurveda involves detoxifying the body and removing accumulated impurities. This practice is vital in pediatrics, promoting health and preventing disease by maintaining bodily harmony and balance, particularly crucial during early development stages.
65) Suffering:
Suffering relates to the experience of pain or distress due to health issues. In Ayurveda, addressing suffering involves identifying root causes and applying therapeutic interventions that restore balance and alleviate discomfort, especially significant in pediatric care.
66) Medicine:
Medicine in Ayurveda refers to any natural therapeutic substance used for treatment. Ayurvedic medicine emphasizes the importance of holistic and preventative approaches, focusing on restoring balance and health through natural means, especially in pediatric care.
67) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Ashtanga underlines the eight fundamental aspects of Ayurvedic practice. Understanding these components aids practitioners in structuring comprehensive treatment protocols, addressing physical, mental, and spiritual health holistically.
68) Sanghati (Samghati):
Sanghati denotes the cloth or material used in Ayurvedic treatments, particularly in creating pottalis for therapies like swedana. The choice of materials emphasizes the natural and nurturing aspects of Ayurvedic practices, especially in pediatric applications.
69) Prastara:
Prastara refers to a specific type of swedana treatment involving localized sweating applications. This technique aims to promote detoxification and comfort in children, aligning with Ayurveda's principles of individualized care.
70) Toxicity:
Toxicity in the context of Ayurveda refers to the presence of harmful substances in the body that may lead to disease. Recognizing and mitigating toxicity is crucial for maintaining health, particularly in sensitive populations like children.
71) Debility:
Debility refers to a state of physical weakness often observed in children due to various health conditions. Addressing debility through Ayurvedic principles aims to restore strength and vitality, ensuring children achieve optimal health.
72) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy represents a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. In Ayurveda, understanding the root causes and individualizing treatments are crucial for managing epilepsy, providing supportive strategies for both prevention and care in affected children.
73) Nostril:
Nostril indicates the external openings of the nasal passages. In Ayurvedic contexts, nostrils are significant for therapies that promote respiratory health, underscoring the interconnectedness of bodily functions in maintaining wellness, especially in children.
74) Mineral:
Mineral refers to essential inorganic compounds utilized in Ayurvedic formulations for their health benefits. Their inclusion in treatments underscores Ayurveda's principles of nutrition, supporting various physiological functions and overall wellness.
75) Alasaka:
Alasaka refers to conditions resembling intestinal obstruction in Ayurveda. Recognizing Alasaka symptoms is critical for timely intervention, ensuring that treatments are applied to prevent complications, especially in pediatric cases.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 122]
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