Pediatrics in Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a very vast science and it is divided into eight different branches namely Kaaya chikitsa, Baala chikitsa or Kaumarabhritya, Graha Chikitsa, Shaalakya tantra, Shalya tantra, Agada tantra, Rasayana chikitsa, and Vajeekarana chikitsa.

         Kaumarbhritya is one of the eight specialized branches of Ashtanga Ayurveda that mainly focuses on the pediatrics issues. It covers all aspects of child growth and development from neonatal phase to adolescence including treatment for problems at every stage. This branch mainly deals with prenatal, natal and postnatal care in addition to gynecology and obstetrics.

         This specialized branch recognized direct links between the physical and mental health of an expecting mother and that of her progeny. Apart from gynecology and pediatrics, this branch also meticulously deals with the problem of infertility. In Kaumarabhritya, there are detailed descriptions of mother and child care. This branch of Ayurveda also consists of recommendations of particular diet, regimen, nutrition, and conduct for women during and after delivery.

According to Kaumarabhritya, it is important for the mother to attain perfect health so that she can feed her child. So, advanced is this science that thousands of years back the description regarding the growth and development of the fetus is explained in minute detail.

Acharya Charaka even mentioned about a technique called Pumsanvana vidhi for having a child of one's desired gender, intelligence, and constitution. This branch of Ayurveda is beneficial for every mother and her child. 

       'Kaumarabhritya', one among the eight branches of Ayurveda, is especially dedicated to the good health of children. Since ages, Ayurvedic preparations have been used in order to build a healthy body and sharp intellect, right from infancy to adulthood.

With special emphasis on baby care, Ayurveda emphasizes on the use of certain tonics and medications that can develop immunity power, intelligence in the children and shield them from various kinds of diseases.

Dr. Niveditha Hebbar.Y.R., MD(Pediatrics Ayu),

Assistant Professor, MIAMS serving as a pediatrician, treated general as well as neurological challenging cases. Also presented numerous scientific papers in various national, international seminars and published the article in the international scientific journal. In addition, given live health program in TV Channel.