A CRITICAL REVIEW OF KRIMI ROGA IN KAUMARBHRITYA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO WORM INFESTATION IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Background Krimi Roga is an important disease entity described in Ayurveda, especially relevant in Kaumarbhritya, because children are more prone to intestinal infections due to immature digestion, poor hygiene habits, frequent soil contact, and developing immunity. In classical texts, Krimi are described as living organisms developing in the body due to improper diet, poor digestive fire, accumulation of Ama, vitiation of Dosha, and contamination of internal channels. In modern science, worm infestation in children is commonly understood under helminthic infections such as ascariasis, hookworm infestation, trichuriasis, and enterobiasis. Both systems accept that poor sanitation, improper food habits, contaminated surroundings, and weak host resistance play a major role in disease development. Aim To critically review Krimi Roga in Kaumarbhritya with special reference to worm infestation in children. Objectives To study the classical concept of Krimi Roga in Ayurveda. To understand the importance of Krimi Roga in Kaumarbhritya. To correlate Ayurvedic descriptions with modern worm infestation in children. To review the etiological factors, clinical features, Samprapti, pathogenesis, prevention, and management principles. To highlight the relevance of diet, hygiene, Agni, and immunity in prevention of recurrence. Materials and Methods Classical Ayurvedic texts related to Krimi Roga, Kaumarbhritya, Agni, Ama, and Ahara-Vihara were reviewed. Modern literature on worm infestation, soil-transmitted helminths, pediatric parasitic infections, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment was studied. A conceptual and comparative analysis was done to understand the relevance of Krimi Roga in present pediatric practice. Discussion The clinical presentation of Krimi Roga shows strong similarity with worm infestation, including abdominal pain, anorexia, nausea, itching, loose stool, anemia, malnutrition, irritability, and disturbed sleep. The Ayurvedic approach focuses on correction of Nidana, improvement of Agni, removal of Krimi, and prevention of recurrence. Conclusion Krimi Roga in Kaumarbhritya can be understood as a broad clinical entity comparable with worm infestation and other parasitic conditions in children. A combined approach of hygiene, diet correction, deworming, strengthening of digestion, and health education is useful for prevention and control.