Abstract

DHATRI- AN UPDATED REVIEW

Dr. Ganesh Kumar*

.

Abstract

In ancient science of ayurveda the concept of dhatri(a wet nurse)is mentioned by many Acharyas like Charaka, Sushruta and Kashyapa. In deficiency of breast milk, the concept of dhatri- a wet nurse – to feed the baby gains its importance. This is due to the fact that baby should not be supplemented with food but also be provided with an affectionate, experienced and nurturing support. The best food for baby who cannot be breastfed should be feeded by milk expressed from the mother’s breast or from any other healthy mother. Mother’s milk is considered to be mandatory for a newly born. Mothers milk helps in giving immense immunity and prevent the child from various diseases. Breast milk is considered economical for the family, society and nation. In Ayurveda acharyas has described some characteristic features which are needed to be considered for selecting the dhatri. These features are of grave importance for the child. So the purpose of the this study is to review the concept of ancient dhatri and the scientific importance of it various characteristic features.

Keywords: Dhatri, Wet nurse, breast milk.