E-ISSN:2456-3110

Review Article

Garbhini Paricharya

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2023 Volume 8 Number 2 February
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

Role of Garbhini Paricharya in preventing complications of ANC

Rajpurohit D.1*, Rajpurohit S.2, Choudhary M.3
DOI:

1* Divya Rajpurohit, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Prasuti Tantra evam Stri Roga, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.

2 Sushmita Rajpurohit, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Prasuti Tantra evam Stri Roga, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.

3 Malika Choudhary, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Prasuti Tantra evam Stri Roga, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.

Ayurveda, the most ancient science of healthcare has laid colossal significance on safe parenthood, Woman, being the precious creation of the world is the only source for new creation and the esteem wish of a woman is to procreate a healthy progeny. To assure a safe motherhood as well as a healthy progeny in her womb, special care of a pregnant woman is required which is elucidated as antenatal care. The Ayurvedic Classics have given lot of emphasis on both Pre-conceptional (Garbhadhan Sanskara) and Prenatal Care (Garbhini Paricharya). The diet of pregnant woman after proper digestion, eventually leads to nourishment of women’s body, formation of breast milk, nutrition to the fetus. Though common food and medications have been recommended depending on Desh, Kala, Ritu. Life Style of mother has a pivotal role in the growth and development of fetus. Hence appropriate Vihar in a pregnant mother should be incorporates as per the principles of Ayurveda. Prenatal Yoga can be very helpful in maintaining normal healthy pregnancy and preparing for labour as it teaches the mother to take cues from her body and maximize its natural potential. Ayurveda will give new avenue in obstetrics care through proper care with wholesome approach.

Keywords: Supraja, Garbhadhan, Prenatal, Mortality, Upsnehana

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Divya Rajpurohit, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Prasuti Tantra evam Stri Roga, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Email: 		Divya Rajpurohit, Sushmita Rajpurohit, Malika Choudhary, Role of Garbhini Paricharya in preventing complications of ANC. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2023;8(2):62-67.
Available From
https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/2216

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2022-12-26 2022-12-28 2023-01-05 2023-01-12 2023-01-19
Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note
Nil Nil Yes 18%

© 2023by Divya Rajpurohit, Sushmita Rajpurohit, Malika Choudharyand Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

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Introduction

In the context of the high health burden due to Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) and Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), there is a focus on preventing such a burden. India has 2.6 billion births annually, and the MMR was 113 per lakh live births in 2016–18.[10] Maternity mortality is mostly preventable provided enough care is taken in managing pregnant women that can be had by providing effective Antenatal care.

Ayurveda approaches for this can enhance the quality of prenatal care.[11] Ayurveda classics mentioned Garbhini Paricharya which is divided into three categories such as Masanumasik Pathya Ahara and Vihara (monthly dietary regimen and lifestyle), Garbhasthapak Karma (diet and activities for maintenance of pregnancy and better progeny) and avoidance of Garbhopaghatakar Bhavas (diet and activities which are harmful to fetus). Wealways say “you are what you eat” it may also be true that “you are what your mother ate”. Additionally, according to contemporary medical knowledge, a pregnant woman's nutrition and lifestyle choices affect her fetal growth. Organogenesis is the time when a fetus's vital organs are growing. It lasts 6 to 10 weeks inside the womb. The foetus is most susceptible to birth abnormalities brought on by outside influences at this time. Prenatal exposure to hormone disrupting substances is thought to be associated to a number of diseases and foetal developmental abnormalities (EDC). The physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being during pregnancy and practice of a wholesome regimen, play a prime role in achieving a healthy progeny.[7]

Aim and Objective

To present an in-depth analysis of what is known about Ayurvedic pregnancy care. A contrast of classical literature and current systems.

Methodology

An integrated approach which uses multidimensional care like Healthy diet, Medication, Lifestyle Yogasana and Meditation during pregnancy trimester wise and child Birth to bring about profound benefits for the mother and the new creation.


Pregnancy related symptoms mentioned in Ayurveda classics

Sadyagruhita Garbha: Nisthivika (Salivation), Gaurav (heaviness), Angasada (malaise), Tandra (sleepiness), Praharsha (horripilation), Hrida-Vyatha (discomfort in chest region), Tripti (contentment), Shrama (Fatigue), Glani (languor), Pipasa (excessive thirst), Sakthisadan (lassitutde of thigh), Yoni Sphuran (quivering in vagina), Praseka (excessive salivation), Hridaya-spandanam (Palpitation)[12-15]

Vyakta Garbha: Artavaadarshan (Amenorrhoea), Asyasansravan (excessive salivation), Ananabhilasha (dislike for food), Chhardi (vomiting), Arochaka (anorexia), Amlakamata (craving for sour substances), Shraddha Pranayama Uchavachesubhaveshu (alternate desire for high and low articles), Gurugatrata (heaviness in body), Chakshuglani (languor of eyes), Stanasthanoustha Stanamandala Karshnyam (milk secretion in breast, darkening of lips and areola), Shwayathupadayoh (slight edema of feet), Lomaraji -Udgama (development of linea nigra), Yonya-Chatalatwam (dilatation of vagina), Gandhatu-Dvijataeshubhat (Aversion from good smells), Angasadan (malaise), Kshyam-Netratwa (Depression in eyes), Kukshi-Gaurav (heaviness in abdomen), Nidra (sleepiness), Jrumbha (yawning), Balakshya (weakness), Vidaha (hyperacidity)[12-15]

First month of pregnancy

Development: In first month, Garbha is in Kalal form and it gets nutrition by Upsnehana. So Garbhini should take proper diet to make balance of Rasa and Rakta Dhatu.[1]

Diet: Non medicated milk[2], Madhur, Sheet, Liquid Diet[3] Madhuyashti, Madhukapuspa with butter, honey and sweetened milk[4]

Medicine: Jeshthamadhu with white sandalwood power, red sandalwood powder in cow's milk, Jeshthamadha, Saagbee, Ksheerkakoli, Devdaru (Cedrus deodara) milk[5], Shatavari, Bala, Drakshadi Leha, Kushmanda Rasayana, Phala Ghrita, Jeevaniya/Brimhniya Gana[6]

Second month of pregnancy

Development: In second month, Garbha starts to take compact form with limb and head. Madhur Rasa Dravyas provide nutrition to Garbha.[1]



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Diet: Milk medicated with Madhura Rasa (sweet taste) drugs[2], Same as first month[3], Sweetened milk treated with Kakoli[4]

Medicine: Ashmantaka (Apta) Tila, Pippali (Piper longum), Manjishtha (Rubia cardifolia) Shatavari (Asparagus recemosus). These are taken in same quantity and a Kashay (decoction) is prepared and taken with milk and sugar. Lotus stem, Nagakeshar Milk, or butter-milk, lotus, bel fruit, Camphor and Goat milk[5] and also like first month.

Third month of pregnancy

Development: In third month, different body parts start to differentiate, heartbeat initiate with sensory and motor reaction. In this period Garbha express its desire through mother's craving. Fulfilling this craving is helpful for proper growth. If one neglects Vata get vitiated and deform Garbha.[1]

Diet: Milk with honey and Ghrita[2], Same as first month[3], Krisara[4]

Medicine: Vrikshadani, Ksheerkakolki, Priyangu, Sariva, Sugar, Nagkeshar Milk, Sandalwoood powder, Khus, lotus, cold water with milk[5] and also like first month.

Fourth month of pregnancy

Development: In the fourth month Garbha stablised and Chetna Dhatu get manifested.

Diet: Milk with butter[2], Cooked Sasti rice with curd, dainty and pleasant food mixed with milk & butter and Jangal Mansa[3], Medicated cooked rice[4]

Medicine: Sariva, Rasna, Bharangi or Jeshthamadhu decoction, Shunthi, Mustha, Sandal wood Powder (For Thirst)[5], Phala Ghrita, Dadimadi / Shatawari Siddha Ghrit, Mulethi / Vidari Churna, Punarnava Mandura, Dhatri Lauha, Praval /Muktashukti Pishti, Kukkutanda Twak Bhasma[6]

Fifth month of pregnancy

Development: In the fifth month Rakta [blood] and Mamsa [muscle] are formed. Mind becomes clearly manifest. Mamsa Dhatu gets nourished in Garbha, so Garbhini is advised to eat Jangal Mamsa.[1]

Diet: Ghrita prepared with butter extracted from milk[2], Cooked Shastika rice with milk, Jangalmansa along with dainty food mixed with milk and Ghrita , Payasa[4]

Medicine: Ground pomegranate leaves, sandal wood paste should be mixed with curd and honey, Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum) Laghu Kantakari (Gmelina arborea) leaves of Ksheeri trees (like Pipal - Ficus religiosa) banyan, Udumbar (Ficus glomerata), Plaksha (Ficus lactor) powder with milk, Ground blue lotus, Renukbeej, Nagkeshar, pumpkin with water[5] , Amrita (Tinospora Cordifolia) / Mulethi Kshira Paka, Kushmanda (Benincasa Hispida) Paka , Kasis Bhasma, Swamridu Abhyanga with Bala / Tila Taila.[6]

Sixth month of pregnancy

Development: In the sixth month, Meda Dhatu is formed. Fatty tissues of Garbha is formed.[1] Bala, Varna, Buddhi is developed.

Diet: Ghrita prepared from milk medicated with Madhura (sweet) drugs[2], Ghrita or rice gruel medicated with Gokshura[3], sweetened curd[4]

Medicine: Prishniparni (Uraria picta), Bala, Gokharu, Drum stick, Jeshthamadhu decoction.

Balya (Strengthening): Endri, Gorakshakarkati (Papaya), Vidarikanda, Shatavari, Ashwagandha, Mashparni, Bala, Atibala, Swamridu Abhyanga with Bala/Tila Taila[6]

Varnya (for complexion): Sandalwood power, lotus, Ushir, Sariva, Jeshthamadha, Manjishtha, White Durva, Vidarikanda.

Medhya: Shankhapushpi / Brahmi Churna[6]

Seventh month of pregnancy

Development: In the seventh month, around the seventh month fetal growth is practically complete after which only refining work remains. Most of Garbhini suffers from oedema of feet. This may be due to increase pressure on lower limb and water retention. To get relief from this Gokshur is advised as it is good diuretic. In seventh month, Madhura Ksheer and Ghrit is advised which help in proper development of foetus.[1]

Diet: Same as in sixth month[2], Ghrita medicated with Prithakaparnyadi Group of drugs, Asthapana Basti with decoction of Badara mixed with Bala, Atibala, Satapuspa, Patala etc., honey and Ghrita. Asthapan is followed by Anuvasan Basti of oil medicated with milk, Madhura drugs[3], Ghritakhanda (a sweet dish)[4]



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Medicine: Bala, Gokharu, Musta, Lajjalu, Nagkeshar powder, Water Chestnut (Trapa Bispinosa) lotus, grapes[5] Musta, Dadimadi / Balamooladi / Sukumar / Prithkaparnyadi / Vidaryadi Ghrita, Praval Pishti, Punarnava Mandur, Swamridu Abyanaga with Bala / Tila Taila.[6]

Eighth month of pregnancy

Development: In the eight month, Ojas becomes unstable; if Garbha born in this month does not survive firstly because of the absence of ‘Ojas’ and secondly because of the Nirritih (demons)

Diet: Kshira Yawagu mixed with Ghrita[2] same as seventh month[3], Ghritapuraka[4]

Medicine: Anuvasan Basti with Madhura Aushadh Siddha Taila, Punarnava Mandur, Swamridu Abyanaga with Bala/Tila Taila[6]

Nine-month of pregnancy

Development: nine-month mentioned as Prasava Kala.

Diet: Unctuous gruels and Jangal Mansa Rasa upto the period of delivery[3], Different varieties of cereals.[4]

Medicine: Anuvasan Basti with Madhura Aushadh Siddha Taila, Punarnava Mandur, Swa-Mridu Abyanaga with Bala / Tila Taila, Yoni Pichu with Madhura Aushadh Siddha Taila.[6]

Yogasana & Pranayama, Dhyana

  • First to ninth month - Katichakrasana, Tadasan, Tiryak-Tadasan, Vajrasana, Ardhatitliyasan, Shawasana, Bhramari, Sheetali, Sheetkari, Anuloma-Viloma, Om Meditation & Mantra
  • Third to ninth month - Vakrasana

Garbhopaghathakara Bhavas (Activities and substances which are harmful to fetus)

Garbhini should avoid use of Teekshna, Rooksha, Ushna Dravyas.[8] Should give up foul smelling articles and should not eat dried up, stale, putrefied or wet food, Vistambhi (hard to digest), Vidahi food as these are harmful for the foetus. She should avoid heavy exercises, coitus, harsh or violent activities, ride over vehicles[9], excess satiation, Ati-Langhan (excess emaciation), sleeping in day and awakening in night, Ati-Vyayama (physical activities or exercise in excess), Vegavidharana

(suppression of natural urges) and not fulfilment Dauhrida desires, sitting in uneven places and should avoid fasting, grief, anger, visiting lonely places, cremation ground, prolonged stay near fire or hot sun etc. Her sleeping and sitting place should be covered with soft cushion/mattress.[9] All these psychological and physical strains like carrying heavy weight or vehicle riding may precipitate abortion due to sudden increase in intra-abdominal pressure.

Discussion

Garbhini should consume a sweet, liquid, nutrient-rich diet that includes plenty of milk, recently cooked rice, meat and meat soup, milk cooked with Madhura group of drugs and other congenial diet, butter, and other agreeable foods. The first trimester of pregnancy is a time of development for the fetus. During the first three months fetal growth organ are only in stage of formation and maternal Rasa and Rakta Dhatu are used for nourishing the uterine bed. During this stage, the embryo is nourished by a process called Upasnehan. Therefore, more Jaleeya [liquid] substances is advised. The advice to use milk constantly 9 months and particularly first 3 months indicates the emphasis laid on supplementing the essential nutrients. Milk is considered as the best Jeevaneeya Dravya. To treat common conditions like constipation and heartburn that occur during the first trimester, milk has the antacid and mild laxative properties. It contains a lot of fat, lactose, and calcium. Constipation, a common complaint during pregnancy, is eased by milk. Because lipids are necessary for the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and other nutrients, the use of butter and ghee is also justifiable. Ghee increases the intellectual capacity of the child and also with its antitoxin property helps in eliminating any form of toxins produced in the body. It even helps in controlling convulsions (Murcha), and prevents unconsciousness (Apasmara. Use of cold and liquid diet along with milk prevents dehydration during first trimester as most of the women experience nausea & vomiting hampering the intake. Madhura indicates the substances rich in glucose content which helps to reduce vomiting. Meat consumption aids in achieving pregnancy and gives nourishment to fetus, suppresses Vata of pregnant women and is also one of the best sources of folic acid. In Second trimester, the formation of fetal Dhatu


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starts and thus Ayurved suggested diet to boost this Dhatu formation which is the origin of the next chain of Dhatu, the majority of pregnant women experience foot edema and other complications of water accumulation by the end of the second trimester. Use of Gokshur a good diuretic in sixth month will prevent retention of water. The drugs of Vidarigandhadi group are diuretic, anabolic, relieve emaciation and suppress Pitta and Kapha, their regular use in seventh month might help in maintaining health of mother and fetus. Most women experience constipation in late pregnancy due to pressure of gravid uterus over bowels and effect of progesterone. Use of enema in eighth month43 will relieve this constipation, besides this may also affect the autonomous nervous system governing myometrium and help in regulating their function during labour.[5] Garbhini Paricharya aims at excellence in the formation of the fetus, its development without anomalies, a secure full term normal delivery and maintenance of the health of the fetus.

Yogasana increases flexibility and strength of pelvic muscles, relieves pain & physical strain. it increases blood circulation in pelvic region, improves digestion & relieves constipation and also improve blood pressure. Pranayama Alleviates mental strain and anxiety and improves heart and lung working capacity it also improves bearing down capacity during labour. Mantras bring calmness in body and helps in easy parturition. Yogasana and Pranayama is very effective in high-risk cases of pregnancy also such as hypertension, asthma, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, cardiac diseases diabetes and thyroid disorders.[7]

Conclusion

In Ayurvedic Garbhini Paricharya, diet, exercise and mental status are very important because due to development of fetus many changes occur in the mother’s body with increase of Kapha Dosha which further results into Agnimandya (indigestion) which is a major causative factor in number of diseases. Hence, in order to maintain a healthy gestation and conduct a pleasant parturition dietary changes and life style modifications should be inculcated keeping both sciences in mind.

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Garbhini Paricharya. International ayurvedic Medical journal. ISSN-2320 5091 August - September 2020.

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3. Yadavji Trikamji, editor, Commentary: Ayurveda Tatva Sandipika Hindi Commentary of Acharya Ambika Datta Shastri on Sushruta Samhita of Sushruta, Sharira Sthana, chapter 10, verse no.3, 13th edition, Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2002 p.73.

4. Harita, Commentary, Nirmala Hindi Commentary of Acharya Ramavalamba Shastri on Harita Samhita, Tritiya Sthana chapter 49, verse no.3, 1stedition, Varanasi: Prachya Prakashana; 1985; p.86.

5. Vaidya Mrs. S Koppikar, Garbhini Paricharya (Regimen for the pregnant woman). Anc Sci Life. 2008 Jul;28(1):37-9 PMC3336346

6. Department of Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga, All India Institute of Ayurveda, Standard Operating Procedures in Pre conceptional and Prenatal Care Through Ayurveda.

7. Bharadwaj Pooja, Effect of Garbhini Ahara-Vihara (Diet & Lifestyle in Pregnancy) On Garbhastha Sishu (Fetus) and Offspring Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, June 2020, Vol. 11, No. 6

8. Kashinatha Shastri, Charaka Samhitha, Chakrapani Datta Virachitha Ayurveda Deepika Vyakya, Chaukambha Orientalia,Varanasi, 1970, Sharira Sthana 4

9. Kaviraj Ambika Datta Sastry, Susruta Samhita, Hindi Vyakya- Vaignanika Vimarsha - Tippani Sahitha, Chaukambha Samskritha Samsthan, Varanasi. 1970, Sharira Sthana 10.

10. Census of India (The Registrar General of India (2018), Special Bulletin on Maternal Mortality. India 2016-18

11. Aligireddy N, Composite Framework for Antenatal Care, Ann Ayurvedic Med. 2021; 10(4) 414-426 DOI:10.5455/AAM. 28866

12. Charak, Charak Samhita, Commentary by Kasinatha Sastry & Gorakh Nath Chaturvedi,


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(2009), Reprint). Chaukhamba Bharati Academy, Varanasi.

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