Abstract

MODERN RELEVANCE OF GARBHINI PARICHARYA: AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO HOLISTIC PRENATAL HEALTH

^*Dr. Monika Baghel and Dr. Nayana Ram M.

Abstract

Garbhini Paricharya, the month-wise antenatal care regimen described in classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, offers a holistic framework for maternal and fetal health. Rooted in the Tridosha Siddhanta, it emphasizes the balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha during pregnancy, each playing a crucial role in foetal growth, nourishment, and parturition. The regimen includes specific recommendations regarding Ahara (diet), Vihara (lifestyle), Aushadha (herbs), and Achara (code of conduct), tailored to the physiological changes of each gestational month and aimed at maintaining the equilibrium of Doshas, Dhatus, and Agni. In the modern context, antenatal complications such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, anaemia, anxiety, preterm labour, and intrauterine growth restriction are increasing due to poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyle, and elevated psychosocial stress. Contemporary antenatal care, though advanced, often focuses more on curative rather than preventive aspects. Garbhini Paricharya, with its foundation in Swasthya Rakshanam (health preservation) and Roga Pratibandhak Chikitsa (disease prevention), offers a time-tested, individualized approach that supports Garbha Vriddhi (fetal development), stabilizes maternal health, and ensures a smooth Prasava (delivery). This review revisits the classical concepts of Garbhini Paricharya, its effect on Dosha homeostasis and foetal tissue formation (Dhatu Pushti), and explores its clinical relevance in today’s obstetric practice. Scientific validation of Ayurvedic principles is also highlighted, establishing Garbhini Paricharya as a valuable integrative model for holistic antenatal care.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Garbhini Paricharya, Antenatal care, maternal health.