CONCEPTUAL STUDY OF UPADHATU STANYA AND ITS ROLE IN INFANTS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/prl.ijayush.v15i06%20(June).2133Keywords:
Stanya, Upadhatu, Rasa Dhatu, Breast Milk, Infant Nutrition, LactationAbstract
Background: Stanya is described in Ayurveda as an important Upadhatu of Rasa Dhatu. It is formed after proper digestion, absorption and transformation of maternal nutrition through the action of Agni and Dhatvagni. In the postnatal period, Stanya acts as the first and most natural food for the infant. It supports growth, immunity, strength, digestion, nourishment, emotional bonding and healthy development of the child. In modern science, breast milk is considered the ideal nutrition for infants because it provides a balanced mix of nutrients, bioactive factors, antibodies, and protection against infections. WHO and UNICEF recommend breastfeeding initiation within the first hour after birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding up to two years or beyond with complementary feeding. Aim: To study the concept of Upadhatu Stanya and its role in infant health. Objectives: To understand the Ayurvedic concept of Stanya as Rasa Dhatu Upadhatu. To explain the process of Stanya Utpatti. To study the role of Stanya in infant nourishment, growth and immunity. To correlate Stanya with modern breast milk physiology. To understand the effect of Stanya Kshaya and Stanya Dushti on infants. Material and Methods: This is a conceptual review article based on classical Ayurvedic texts, available commentaries and modern scientific literature. Classical concepts related to Rasa Dhatu, Upadhatu, Stanya, Stanya Utpatti, Stanya Sampat and infant health were reviewed. Modern literature related to lactation physiology, breast milk composition, immunity and infant nutrition was also analyzed. Observation and Result: Stanya is directly related to maternal nutrition, Rasa Dhatu quality, mental state and proper functioning of Agni. Pure and adequate Stanya supports infant growth, strength, complexion, immunity, digestion and mental development. Modern science also supports that breastfeeding reduces gastrointestinal infections, diarrhea and other childhood infections while supporting optimal physical and cognitive development. Discussion: The Ayurvedic concept of Stanya as Rasa Dhatu Upadhatu shows a close relation between maternal nutrition and infant nourishment. Modern breast milk physiology also confirms that maternal health, hormonal regulation, emotional status and feeding practices influence milk secretion and quality. Conclusion: Stanya is not only food for the infant but also a natural protective, developmental and emotional support system. The concept of Upadhatu Stanya provides a holistic view of infant nutrition, combining maternal health, digestion, mental balance and child development.
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