Ayurveda as a science was born in India, as we have learned in our ancient religious texts, where sages cured the incurable diseases.

But with the advent of science and technology, over a period of time, the scope of Ayurveda, though vast, dimmed among the more ‘evolved’ cosmopolitan population. But now, research into this field by eminent doctors, professors and pharmaceutical companies has once again brought Ayurveda to the forefront as an applied science and effective form of treatment and cure. M&B learns more about Ayurveda and it’s scope in childcare...

Words Poornima Nair IyerIllustrations Ajay Paradkar

Old Wisdom
“Ayurveda can be a very good cure if practised properly. I believe you can benefit immensely if you have a good understanding of Ayurveda,” says Niika Quistgard, founder and director of Rasa Ayurveda, a traditional healing center for women in Kerala.

“Kaumarabritya, one of the many branches of Ayurveda, focuses on pre-natal, post-natal and paediatrics,” she says. “The essence of Ayurveda is to strengthen our relationship with nature. Kaumarabritya is a big branch, using all the five senses and your mind in the process of healing, prevention, and making your baby healthy. What you see, smell, touch and taste has an impact on your physiology as well as the baby inside your womb,” she says.

Traditional care
You’re advised to take care during pregnancy to ensure the good health of the baby. But after childbirth, it is imperative that certain norms are followed for the well-being of both mother and baby. “Post-delivery, is an extremely important time as everything changes in the body and mind. The big space created in the body after childbirth can invite problems and chronic illnesses. According to the Ayurvedic tradition, you must take an oil massage, followed by a hot water bath, eat special foods that are good for digestion and also have adequate nourishment. You must take enough rest and also wrap a material over the tummy to keep it from sagging. Practising these basic principles improves the vitality of women. All this practice in turn will result in an excellent quality and supply of breastmilk which will benefit the baby immensely. A special coconut oil massage which has medicinal properties will make your baby stronger. An excellent unpolluted environment also offers many remedies. A healthy environment can give you a healthy baby,” says Niika with conviction.

During weaning, she advises you to introduce fresh food instead of canned or bottled food. “It’s important to prepare the baby’s food with affection. As the immune system is developing, try easy, natural and gentle remedies to treat his illness. Avoid harsh medicines that can affect his immunity. Ayurvedic treatments are gentle, with no side-effects and are encouraging for the baby. It’s important for you to have the skill and knowledge. If you are strong, your child will also grow to be strong,” she assures.