Paediatrics and Ayurveda
Nomenclature, Etymology and Definition
Kaumārabhṛtya, one of the eight branches of Ayurveda, encompasses pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology. It covers a wide range of subjects, starting from prenatal care and continuing until the child reaches the stage of adolescence (kumāravasthā). The scope of Kaumārabhṛtya also extends to the treatment of women from the early stages of pregnancy until the cessation of breastfeeding. This is because any disruptions in the mother's physiology can impact the child, and the child can only be treated through breastfeeding. Hence, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology are all included within the domain of Kaumārabhṛtya.
Kaumārabhṛtya is a Sanskrit compound consisting of the terms kaumāra {meaning tender}, and bhṛtya (भृत्य) {meaning to nourish, support or maintain}.
कौमारभृत्यानाम् कुमारभरणं धात्रीक्षीरदोषसंशोधनार्थम् !
दुष्टस्तन्यसमुत्थानञच व्याधीनामुपशमनार्थम्!!
reference Sushrutha Samhitha
From the mentioned shloka sutra, it can be understood that Koumarabhritya primarily focuses on various aspects such as newborn care, addressing concerns related to wet nurses, ensuring proper care of colostrum and breast milk to prevent disorders, treating ailments caused by breastfeeding from mothers with health issues, and managing a wide range of disorders in newborns, including infections.
Kashyapa
Rishi Kashyapa is a revered figure in Hindu mythology and is considered one of the Saptarishis (seven great sages) in the Vedic tradition. He is believed to have lived in ancient India and was renowned for his knowledge of the Vedas and the scriptures.
According to Hindu mythology, Rishi Kashyapa was married to Aditi, the mother of the Adityas, who are a group of deities in Hinduism. He also had several other wives, including Diti, who gave birth to the Daityas, a group of demons. Kashyapa is also credited with creating various beings, including the Nagas (serpents), Gandharvas (celestial musicians), and the Garudas (mythical bird-like creatures).
Rishi Kashyapa is considered one of the most important sages in Hindu mythology and is revered for his knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual practices. His teachings have had a significant impact on Hindu philosophy, and his legacy continues to be celebrated in various Hindu festivals and traditions.
Rishi Kashyapa, who composed a hymn praising Soma in the Rig Veda, acquired the knowledge of Ayurveda from Indra, the King of Gods. His specialization primarily lay in Kaumarbhritya, which encompasses pediatrics, including obstetrics and gynecology. According to many scriptures, Rishi Kashyapa was born to Marichi and Kala.
Kashyapa and legend of Kashmir
During a pilgrimage to the northern borders of India, Sage Kashyapa encountered a picturesque region filled with captivating mountains, scenic valleys, and serene lakes. The resident Nagas approached him, seeking his help in liberating them from a demon named 'Jalodhbhava,' who tormented the inhabitants of the mountain slopes and dwelled beneath the lake's waters. To invoke divine intervention, the sage embarked on intense austerities and meditated upon Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu responded by penetrating the mountains, rupturing the lake, and draining its waters, ultimately slaying the demon. With the demon vanquished, a magnificent valley emerged, christened 'Kashyap Mar,' which became the dwelling place of Kashyapa. Over time, this valley came to be recognized as 'Kashmir.' In Sanskrit, 'Kashmir' signifies being 'desiccated from water' ("ka" - water and "shimeera" - desiccate).
Kashyapa and Jeevaka
Despite the presence of uncertainty, according to the opinions of several scholars, there is a belief that Jeevaka, the renowned physician from the time of Lord Buddha, was the son of Kashyapa. It is said that at the tender age of five, Jeevaka authored a comprehensive text on pediatrics. However, due to skepticism regarding his age, the text was not accepted. According to legend, Jeevaka performed a bath ritual in the presence of numerous sages in the sacred river Ganga at 'Kanakha.' Remarkably, he emerged from the river as an elderly man, hence earning the name "Vriddha Jeevaka" (old Jeevaka).
Kashyapa Samhitha
The ancient Ayurvedic text known as Kashyap Samhitā, alternatively referred to as Vriddha Jivakiya Tantra, is attributed to the sage Kashyap.
Regarded as one of the earliest treatises on Indian medicine, it holds a significant place alongside other renowned works such as the Sushruta Samhita, Charaka Samhita, Bhela Samhita, and Harita Samhita. The Kashyap Samhita draws heavily from the teachings of the Ayurvedic practitioner Charaka.
In contemporary Ayurvedic practice, the Kashyap Samhita serves as a valuable resource in the fields of Ayurvedic pediatrics, gynecology, and obstetrics. It is also included in the Ayurveda curriculum, particularly within the specialization of Kaumarabhritya Balaroga (pediatrics). During the Middle Ages, the treatise was translated into Chinese.
The Kashyapa Samhitha consists of 200 chapters, which are categorized into nine sections: Sutra Sthana, Nidana Sthana, Vimana Sthana, Shaareera Sthana, Indriya Sthana, Chikitsa Sthana, Siddhi Sthana, Kalpa Sthana, and Khila Sthana.
Conclusion
Kaumārabhṛtya is a branch of Ayurveda that encompasses pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology. It covers a wide range of subjects, from prenatal care to adolescent health.
Rishi Kashyapa is a revered figure in Hindu mythology and is associated with Ayurveda. He composed hymns, acquired knowledge from Indra, and specialized in Kaumarbhritya.
The legend of Kashmir traces its origin to Sage Kashyapa, who liberated the region from a demon. The valley that emerged came to be known as Kashmir, meaning "desiccated from water."
Jeevaka, believed to be the son of Kashyapa, was a renowned physician. He wrote a text on pediatrics at a young age and gained the name "Vriddha Jeevaka" after a transformative bath.
Kashyap Samhitā, attributed to Sage Kashyapa, is an ancient Ayurvedic text. It is considered one of the earliest treatises on Indian medicine and covers various specialties.
The Kashyapa Samhita consists of 200 chapters divided into nine sections, covering different aspects of Ayurveda.
Trisutra Ayushyalaya
Trisutra Ayushyalaya, situated in Mysore, Karnataka, is an Ayurvedic clinic that aims to create a nurturing atmosphere and incorporate the incredible practices of Ayurveda into contemporary lifestyles. To delve deeper into this ancient science, we encourage you to explore our blog and embark on a transformative journey towards improved health and well-being.
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