E-ISSN:2456-3110

Review Article

Garbhopaghatakara Bhava

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2023 Volume 8 Number 5 May
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

Review of the Ayurvedic concept of Garbhopaghatakara Bhava

Tekam P.1*, Marwaha R.2, Bhalerao N.3, Dutta Panda S.4, Anand S.5
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21760/jaims.8.5.28

1* Pooja Tekam, Post Graduate Scholar, PG. Department of Rachana Sharir, Pt. Khushilal Sharma Govt. Ayurved College & Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

2 Rita Marwaha, Professor & HOD, PG. Department of Rachana Sharir, Pt. Khushilal Sharma Govt. Ayurved College & Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

3 Nisha Bhalerao, Reader, Department of Rachana Sharir, Pt. Khushilal Sharma Govt. Ayurved College & Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

4 Shiba Dutta Panda, Lecturer, PG. Department of Rachana Sharir, Pt. Khushilal Sharma Govt. Ayurved College & Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

5 Sapna Anand, Post Graduate Scholar, PG. Department of Rachana Sharir, Pt. Khushilal Sharma Govt. Ayurved College & Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

Ayurveda is a traditional medical practise that emphasises both preventive and therapeutic care for a person's health. The significance of taking care of the mother before, during, and after pregnancy is heavily emphasised. The reproductive cycle is very significant to a woman's existence. Every woman in the world has the most wonderful dream of being a mother. The most important and difficult time in a woman's life is during pregnancy. Numerous factors, including as eating habits, lifestyle choices, and psychological considerations, might have an impact on pregnancy. Throughout its intrauterine life, the foetus depends on its mother for both nutrition and development. The great Ayurvedic authorities described the Garbhopaghatakara Bhavas, or things to avoid during pregnancy, while describing Garbhini Paricharya. When present during pregnancy, Garbhopaghatakara Bhavas are such variables that have the potential to injure or destroy the foetus or its development. One of the saddest elements of pregnancy is a deformed living foetus. Due to carelessness or ignorance, all women in today's fast-paced society accidentally do some behaviours that are advised against during pregnancy, which can result in miscarriages, abortions, and other obstetrical issues. Here, an attempt has been made to examine the mother and offspring's Garbhopaghatakara Bhavas.

Keywords: Garbhopghatakara Bhavas, Garbhasrava, Garbhavyapad, Douhridya

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Pooja Tekam, Post Graduate Scholar, PG. Department of Rachana Sharir, Pt. Khushilal Sharma Govt. Ayurved College & Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Email: 		Pooja Tekam, Rita Marwaha, Nisha Bhalerao, Shiba Dutta Panda, Sapna Anand, Review of the Ayurvedic concept of Garbhopaghatakara Bhava. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2023;8(5):173-178.
Available From
https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/2479

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2023-03-25 2023-03-27 2023-04-03 2023-04-10 2023-04-17
Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note
Nil Nil Yes 17%

© 2023by Pooja Tekam, Rita Marwaha, Nisha Bhalerao, Shiba Dutta Panda, Sapna Anandand 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

Knowledge of Garbha is the foundation for knowledge of Sharir. The understanding of Garbha aids in the development of circumstances that better handle pregnancy and oversee the production of wholesome new procreation. Ayurvedic literature provides several details regarding abnormalities or congenital problems that develop in the foetus. The characteristics that would hinder the developing Garbha are the subject of Garbhopaghatakara Bhavas. As a result, Garbhopaghatakara Bhavas refers to elements that are harmful for pregnancy.

Many illustrious Ayurvedic gurus have referred to the Garbhopaghatakara factors as the causes of foetal anomalies in terms of appearance and complexion. According to research, significant structural malformations affect about 3% of liveborn infants, and birth defects account for about 25% of baby fatalities, making them a major cause of infant mortality. They are a significant cause of disability and the fifth most common reason for years of potential life lost before the age of 65. Between 40 and 45 percent of those with birth abnormalities have an undetermined cause. A combination of genetic and environmental influences (multifactorial inheritance) results in 20% to 25% of cases, while twinning accounts for 5% to 1% of cases and minor anomalies affect 15% of newborns.[1] Genetic factors, such as chromosome abnormalities and mutant genes, account for about 28% of cases. Environmental factors cause about 3% to 4% of cases. Under the heading of Gharbhopaghatakara Bhavas, all the great Ayurvedic experts have outlined specific practises that should be avoided when pregnant. Due to carelessness or ignorance, all women in today's fast-paced society inadvertently do some things that are advised against doing while pregnant, which can result in miscarriages, abortions, and other obstetrical issues. In order to understand these Gharbhopaghatakara Bhavas, analysis is required.

Garbhopaghatakara Bhava

Ayurvedic texts have outlined specific practises that are not advised during pregnancy. The Garbhopaghatakara Bhavas are as follows in order to comprehend the complexity of this concept as it was articulated by the many Acharyas.


Charak Samhita: In the Charak Samhita, Acharya Charak advises against using Tikshan Aushadha (pungent medicine), Vyavaya (excessive coitus), and Vyayama (excessive exercise) while pregnant.[2] The following factors, as listed by Acharya Charak in Sharir Sthan, are harmful for the foetus, including excessive usage of ushna and tikshan (hot, pungent substances), daruna cheshta (activities much above one's own capabilities), and other variables as prescribed by Acharyas. She shouldn't wear Raktavarna Vastra (cloth of red in colour) to ward off the influence of gods, demons, and their followers. She shouldn't consume excessive amounts of Mansa (meat), Madya (wine), Yana Avrohana (ride over potholes in the road), or other harmful items. She should also give up anything contrary to Indriyas and other harmful items, as advised by her family.[3]

Again, Acharya Charak has described various types of Garbhopaghatakara Bhava which led to disease in foetus.[4]

SN Pregnant women consuming constantly Effect of progeny
1. Woman sleeping is open place and moving out in night Insane (Unamtta)
2. Indulges in quarrels and fights Epileptic (Apsmara)
3. Indulged in sexual intercourse Ill-physique, shameless and devoted to women,
4. Always under grief Timid, undeveloped or short-lived
5. Thinking of others to harmful Envious or devoted to woman
6. Always think to thieve Exerting, wrathful or inactive
7. Always remain intolerant Fierce, deceitful and jealous
8. Sleeps constantly Drowsy, unwise and deficient in digestion power
9. Wine Thirsty, poor in memory and unstable in mind
10. Iguana Gravels, stone or Shanermeha
11. Pork Red eyes, obstructed, respiration and very rough body hair
12. Fish Delayed closure of eye or stiff eyes
13. Madhur Rasa Diabetes (Prameha), Dumb (Mook), or over-obese (Atishoulya)
14. Amla Rasa Internal haemorrhage (Raktapitta), eye disorder (Akshiroga) and skin disorder (Twakroga)
15. Lawan Rasa Wrinkles and grey haris (Valita Palita) and Baldness (Khaliyta)
16. Katu Rasa Weakness (Durbal), deficient in semen (Alpashukra) and infertile (Anapatya)
17. Tikta Rasa Consumptive (Shosh), weak (Abala), under developed (Anupchita)
18. Kashaya Rasa Blackish colour (Shyav Varna), Anaha and Udavarta.

Sushruta Samhita: According to Acharya Sushruta, women should completely


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abstain from Vyavay (coitus), Vyayam (exercise), and Atitarpan (excessive drinking) starting on the day of conception. Sanitation, Atikarshan's extreme emaciation, Diwaswapna's daytime slumber, Ratrijagran's night-time awakening) Avoid using Senhana, Raktamokshana, and Vega Dharana improperly. Shok (grief), Yanavrohan (riding on a vehicle), Bhaya (fear), Utkatukasana (squatting), and avoid using Senhana, Raktamokshana, and Vega Dharana inappropriately.[5] She must refrain from touching Malin. In addition to avoiding eating Shushka (dried up), Paryushit (stale), Kuthita (putrid), and Klinna (wet food), Hina Vikrat Gatra (a filthy or disfigured person possessing fewer bodily parts) should also refrain from using Drudarsha (terrible looking) substances and Durgandha (foul-smelling) items. She should avoid Bahinishkraman (outing), visit of Shunyagara (lonely place), Chaitya (haunted tree), Shamshan (cremation ground) or Vriksha Ashraya (shade of a tree), acts likely to promote Krodha (anger) and Asanshaya (disgrace), Uchha Bhashana (talking in high pitch) etc. all the things likely to harm the foetus. Taila Abhayanga shouldn't be overly massaged (using excessive amounts of oil and lubricants) or exhausted.[6]

Negligence of 4th month: Due to the creation of the heart's viscus, the embryo's limbs and organs all become more powerful in the fourth month, and the foetus is given consciousness. when the heart is the seat of awareness, when the heart grows strong, it acquires consciousness and, as a result, conveys its craving for flavours, aromas, and other sensory experiences (through the longings of its mother). At that time, the Garbhini is known as Dauhridya, and when her wishes and desires are not fulfilled, the result is the birth of a paralysed, has a humpback, crooked arms, is lame, is undersized, has defect eyes, and is blind.[7] The concepts which are mentioned by different great authorities of Ayurveda has its scientific base.

Ashtang Sangraha: Acharya Vagbhatta mentioned Acharya Charak's point of view, but like Acharya Sushruta, he also listed the list of contraindications as Vyavaya, Vyayama, Karshana, Abhighata, Atisankshobha Yana, Ratrijagrana, Diwaswapna, Vega Dharana, Ajirna, Atapa Sevana or Agni Sevana, Krodha, Shoka, Bhaya, Trasa, Upvasa, Utakatasana or Vishama Asana, Kupa Prapata, Apriya Lokan and Shravana etc. Parents, especially women, need to get better if they want to have children of the highest calibre.

When you massage with oils and lubricants in the first month through the fifth month, avoid utilizing anything that is prone to aggravating Doshas.[8]

Ashtang Hridaya: In Astang Hridaya, Acharya Laghu Vagbhatta has also forbidden Ativyavaya and Atiayasa, carrying Bhara, Guru Pravaranm, and other activities. Akala Swapna, Utakatasana or abnormal sitting, Shoka, Krodha, Bhaya, Udvega, Vega Dharana, Upvasa, Ati Adhva, use of Tikshna, Ushna Guru and Vistambhi food, use of Raktavastra, peeping in a pit or well, use of Madya or Mansa, Uttanshayan etc. Raktamokshana, Basti up to eighth month should not be used.[9]

Kashyap Samhita: The contraindications provided by Acharya Kashyap are completely different. She shouldn't gaze at the rising Sun, setting Sun, or both Rahus, or the descending Moon, Shashi. She should enter the centre of her house, perform religious rites, and present an offering to release the planets from the grasp of the Grahas if she knows there will be a solar or lunar eclipse. She must not show Dvesha (hostility) towards Atithi (guests), give alms to beggars instead of throwing them out, perform Ghrita oblation in a burning fire for pacification, oppose the use of a full ewer, a Ghrita garland, a pot filled with Ghrita or curd, tie anything with thin thread or rope, loosen all of her ties, or dress in very loose clothing. She should avoid trembling, Atihasya (excessive laughing), and Abhighata (trauma), among other things, and should not hold a heavy load for an extended period of time. Garlic and using cold water are also not advised.[10]

Harita Samhita: According to Acharya Harita, it is not recommended to consume any Vidala Anna (pulses), Vidahi Anna (an edible that causes burning), Guru (heavy), Amla (sour), Ushna Kshira (hot milk), Mratika (clay), Surana, Rasona (garlic), or Palandu (onion) without their juices. She needs to stay away from Vyavaya (coitus), Vyyama (exercise), Krodha (angriness), Rosha (grief), and Chakramana (walking), among other things. The woman is happy if she avoids all of these measures.[11]

Bhavprakash Samhita: The concept of Acharya Sushruta was continued by Acharya Bhavmihsra, who added the list of contraindications to include sitting or sleeping in a very soft and lofty location, visiting a river bank, temple, or garden, drinking rainwater, consuming meat, associating with women whose children have died, etc.[10]


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Again, Acharya Charak has described various types of Garbhopaghatakara Bhava which led to disease in foetus.[12]

View of modern science: The above-mentioned things should be avoided throughout or even after pregnancy, according to modern science. For instance, coitus is typically not prohibited during pregnancy. Release of prostaglandins and oxytocin in with coitus may cause uterine contractions. Women with increased risk of miscarriage or preterm labor should avoid coitus if they feel such increased uterine activity.[13] The foetus is at serious risk (6%), especially for heavy drinkers (3 oz). The Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is characterised by the occurrence of at least one symptom from each of the following the three categories that follow. The first is prenatal or postnatal growth limitation. The second category is facial anomalies, which includes small palpebral fissures, an indistinct or nonexistent philtrum, epicanthic folds, a nasal bridge that is flattened, a nose that is short in length, an upper lip that is thin, unparallel and low-set ears, and a delayed midfacial development.

Third is CNS dysfunction, which includes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), mental retardation, and microcephaly.[14] It is advisable to stop smoking, not just during pregnancy but also afterward, given that it is harmful to your health. Additionally, there is a higher likelihood of abortion among women who smoke a lot. Alcohol use should also be severely reduced or avoided during pregnancy in order to avoid growth restriction or maldevelopment of the foetus.[15] Utilising a vehicle Jerks are preferable to avoid, especially in the first trimester and the last six weeks. The long journey is preferably to be limited to the second trimester. Bus routes should be replaced with rail ones. Up to 36 weeks can be safely travelled in pressurised planes. In cases of placenta previa, preeclampsia, severe anaemia, and sickle cell disease, air travel is not advised. Due to the possibility of venous stasis and thrombosis, prolonged sitting in a car or aeroplane should be avoided. Seat belt should be under the abdomen.[16]

Prevention of Garbha Vikriti: If these substances are recognised and avoided, the Garbha Vikriti caused by maternal exposure to numerous exogenous agents during pregnancy can be avoided.

Acharya has discussed the precautions that must be taken in order to safeguard the foetus from any abnormalities.

Acharya has significantly mentioned the Ritumatiparicharya and Garbhani Paricharya and Sutikaparicharya. Before conception what measure is to be taken is mentioned in Ritumati Paricharya, during pregnancy measure are given in Garbhani Paricharya. After the birth of baby pregnant lady is termed as Sutika. Acharyas has mentioned rules for Sutika to avoid various types of infection to mother and baby. These Paricharya take a direct, scientific approach to ensuring that a healthy foetus develops without any birth defects inside the womb of the expectant woman. It contributes significantly to the stabilisation of Garbha and provides the critical nutrients and energy needed throughout pregnancy.

Discussion

There are several references in the Ayurvedic classics that give the impression that the Acharyas possessed in-depth understanding of embryogenesis, teratogens and the resulting congenital deformities, and problems for both the mother and the foetus. Under Garbhopaghatakara, they have listed Aharaj Nidana, Viharaj Nidana, and Mansik Nidana. Abortion may be triggered by psychological or physical reasons like Shoka (grief), Bhaya (fear), Krodha (rage), etc. and strenuous activity. Due to a rapid increase in abdominal pressure from being overweight or lifting a lot of weight, chronic aberrant postures that can affect the uterine blood flow can result in abortion or intrauterine death of the foetus. Most of the previously mentioned causes impede the healthy growth and development of the foetus by impairing Dosha and Agni's regular functions. Indulging in one or more of the Garbhopaghatakara Bhavas and failing to abide by the Garbhini Paricharya may be the cause of the rise in incidences of intrauterine growth retardation, miscarriage, abortions, abnormal delivery presentation, foetal distress, cord around neck, etc. According to Acharya Charak, a Garbhini requires the same level of care as a Tailapurna Patra. The Taila could spill with even the smallest disturbance. Similar full attention should be paid to Garbhini from the Tailapurna Patra in order to stop Upaghata from the developing foetus.[17] To ensure the health of the foetus, an ayurvedic physician should evaluate these risks and advise the patient to avoid them while pregnant.


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Conclusion

Congenital abnormalities come in many different forms and can be caused by a number of different things, including genetic, environmental, and other influences. Lack of attention, education, supervision, and prevention through diet, way of life, and mental health are linked to congenital malformations or diseases. There should be genetic counselling, population screening, social education on prevention, and the use of prenatal diagnostic methods. Following the different Ayurvedic principles, such as adhering to the Garbhini Paricharya diet plan and avoiding foods that aggravate the triads (Garbhopghatkar Bhava and Tridosha) when pregnant, can help women avoid a variety of birth defects and illnesses. In order to secure the birth of a robust, active, healthy, and long-lived child, the Garbhini's desires should be satisfied.

Reference

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4. Khemraj Krishnadas. Bhavprakash Samhita. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Vishwa Bharti, 2002, page.66, B.p. purva khand 2/375-38.

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