Concept of Shishu Paricharya
The term ‘Shishu’ translates to ‘Neonate,’ and ‘Paricharya’ refers to ‘Care.’ Shishu Paricharya at Utpala Ayurdhama encompasses a holistic approach to the nursing and healthy upbringing of newborns, infants, and children to ensure their optimal physical and mental development. It also provides comprehensive guidance on nurturing practices, the purification of breast milk, and treating conditions that may arise from improper feeding or vitiated breast milk.
Our Ayurvedic neonatal care involves a series of time-tested practices, including the cleaning of vernix caseosa (Ulva Parimarjana), cutting the umbilical cord (Naal Chedana), administering resuscitative measures (Prana Pratyagaman), bathing the newborn (Snana), and applying external oleation (Pichu Dharana). Further steps include clearing the stomach through emesis (Garbhodaka Vamana), administering gold bhasma with Medhya herbs (Swarnaprashana), and initiating feeding (Jatakarma).
Immediately after birth, the newborn’s vernix is gently removed using ghee and rock salt. These measures stimulate breathing and help prevent hypothermia while ensuring the baby’s warmth and comfort.
Why is My Baby in Neonatal Care?
At Utpala Ayurdhama, babies may be admitted to neonatal care for several reasons, including:
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Specific medical conditions requiring special attention
Methods Used in Ayurvedic Neonatal Care
Our Ayurvedic approach to neonatal care is based on ancient wisdom. The following methods are employed at Utpala Ayurdhama as part of Shishu Paricharya:
- Ulva Parimarjan (Cleaning Vernix Caseosa)
Ulva Parimarjan involves gently removing the vernix (caseosa and amniotic fluid) using a combination of ghee and rock salt. This practice ensures stimulation, promoting the newborn’s effective breathing. The baby’s head is covered with cotton soaked in ghee to protect against heat loss and injury. - Prana Pratyagaman (Resuscitation Measures)
Resuscitation is vital in newborn care. At Utpala Ayurdhama, ancient Ayurvedic practices such as creating sounds near the baby’s ears to stimulate the respiratory center and sprinkling warm water on the face are employed to restore breath and vitality to the newborn. Artificial ventilation is also provided using a traditional winnowing basket. - Mukhavishodhana (Cleaning the Mouth)
The oral cavity, including the palate, lips, and tongue, is carefully cleaned using a cotton-wrapped forefinger. This ensures that the baby does not aspirate any amniotic fluid or vernix into the respiratory tract. - Naal Chedana (Umbilical Cord Cutting)
The umbilical cord is carefully cut and tied using a traditional method, ensuring that the cord is kept hygienically away from contamination. This prevents any risk of infection. - Snana (Bathing)
After birth, the baby is massaged with herbal oils like Bala oil, which provides warmth and nourishment. The bath is then given using decoctions of herbs like Kshirivriksha, promoting overall health and healing of the umbilical cord stump. - Jatakarma (First Feeding)
Honey and ghee are administered as the baby’s first feed to promote digestion and immunity. Swarnaprashana, a gold bhasma preparation, is also given to the newborn to boost immunity and cognitive functions. - Raksha Karma (Protection Measures)
To prevent infection, Ayurvedic herbs are placed around the newborn to maintain a sterile environment. Special attention is given to bedding and clothing, and a sacred fire is lit in the room to maintain warmth and hygiene.
Common Conditions Due to Improper Cord Cutting
Issues that may arise due to improper handling of the umbilical cord include:
- Vertically enlarged cord stump (Ayama Uttundita)
- Horizontally enlarged cord stump (Vyayama Uttundita)
- Formation of a round mass around the umbilicus (Pindalika)
Conclusion
At Utpala Ayurdhama, we combine ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern neonatal care practices. Our approach to Shishu Paricharya ensures comprehensive care for newborns, focusing on their resuscitation, nourishment, and overall well-being. Through traditional practices like Swarnaprashana and early initiation of breastfeeding, we provide a holistic approach that aligns with modern neonatal care. Embrace the ancient care methods at Utpala Ayurdhama to ensure the best start for your newborn’s life.