Child Healthcare in Ayurveda: No. 16 (Indian Medical Science, No. 16)

• Book Title: History of Ayurveda and Child Health Care

• Author: Abhimanyu Kumar

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 1999

• ISBN: 9788170303893

• Pages: 338

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 23 cm x 15 cm

• Weight: 580 gm

Book Description

Preface
The history of medicine is an ancient yet evolving field, integral for both historians and medical professionals. The study of the history of Indian medicine offers insights into where the medical practices originated and where they stand today. Particularly intriguing is the ancient medical system of India, with the discovery of Indus Valley cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, dating back to 3000 B.C. Though no direct texts from that era are available, it is believed that early medicine included elements of religion, magic, and empirical practices. The Vedas, the oldest scriptures of India, hold knowledge related to medicine and health care, especially in Atharvaveda, which is closely linked to Ayurveda—the science of life.

Ayurveda is the traditional Indian system of medicine aimed at maintaining health, preventing diseases, and promoting well-being. The system is comprehensive, encompassing eight clinical branches, including Kaumarabhrtya (Child Health Care). This book delves into the ancient roots of Kaumarabhrtya, explaining the development and scope of child health care in Ayurveda, its relation to other branches, and how ancient scholars described childhood development, diseases, and treatments.

Scope of Kaumarabhrtya

The specialty of Kaumarabhrtya (or Child Health Care) has been a significant area of Ayurveda. Various terms such as Kaumārabhrtya, Kaumaratantra, and Bala Roga have been used throughout ancient texts to refer to the study and care of children. The word "Kumara" refers to a child or youth and has symbolic significance in Sanskrit literature, connecting childhood with an incomplete development of sex organs, drawing parallels with modern medical understanding.

The book explains the philosophical and clinical aspects of Kaumarabhrtya, drawing connections between ancient Ayurvedic texts and contemporary pediatric care. It explores how ancient Ayurvedic scholars like Charaka and Sushruta contributed to child health care, offering insights into the medical knowledge that remains relevant today.

Major Areas Covered

• Nursing and Upbringing: Ancient practices for nurturing infants and children, focusing on healthy growth and proper upbringing.

• Breast Milk Quality: The purification and improvement of breast milk, especially if deficient in quality or quantity.

• Diseases of Childhood: The book covers diseases caused by vitiated breast milk, as well as conditions unique to infancy and childhood.

• Spiritual and Supernatural Factors: The influence of grahas (planets or deities) on children's health and the related treatments.

This book provides an in-depth look into ancient Ayurvedic concepts, offering valuable perspectives on child health care that have stood the test of time, while also making connections to modern pediatric practices. It aims to bridge the ancient wisdom with contemporary medical knowledge, offering both academic and practical value for those interested in the field of child health care.