Abstract

A REVIEW OF AYURVEDIC VIEWS ON PEDIATRIC CARE USING LEHANA YOGA

*Dr. Rajesh S. Zagade, Dr. Ravindra Dhanwade, Dr. Kishor Pacharane

Abstract

Lehana Yoga, defined as the administration of medicated substances through licking, is an Ayurvedic therapeutic procedure and traditional birth ritual intended to enhance nutrition, immunity, and cognitive development in infants and young children. This review aims to examine the concept of Lehana Karma as documented in classical Ayurvedic sources. The study employed a narrative review methodology, drawing data from authoritative Ayurvedic texts, previously published research, and relevant journal articles. The literature indicates that infants possess limited defense mechanisms against environmental contaminants and undergo rapid growth and developmental changes. In this context, Ayurveda advocates Lehana as a measure to support physiological development and confer nonspecific immunity against infections. Acharya Sushruta has outlined four Lehana formulations containing Swarna (gold) along with selected herbal ingredients. Acharya Kashyapa provides the most comprehensive account of Lehana Karma, detailing its indications, contraindications, and various Lehana formulations. He particularly emphasizes Swarnaprashana, prepared with Swarna (gold), Madhu (honey), and Ghrita (ghee), which is also recommended by Acharya Sushruta during the Jatakarma (birth ritual). Additional formulations are described by Acharya Charaka, Acharya Vagbhata, and Acharya Harita. Overall, Ayurvedic literature presents Lehana as both a ritualistic and therapeutic intervention with potential benefits in preventing recurrent infections and supporting early childhood nutritional requirements.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Balopachara (pediatric care), Lehana Yoga; Swarna Prashana, Childhood immunity, Early childhood nutrition.