Abstract

In the present era where we are facing a new threat every day in the form of fresh emerging diseases, contaminated food and adverse environmental conditions etc, our children are suffering more in such unfavourable conditions. Because of their less developed immune system, they are more vulnerable to vicious cycles of disease and infections. Immunization in modern practice confers only disease specific immunity and has several adverse effects. To improve bala (immunity and strength), medha (intelligence), agni (digestion), ayu (life span) and to prevent child from various diseases and disorders, Acharya Kashyapa has mentioned important role of swarnaprashan. It is a lehan karm which is a unique traditional method of immunization. In this pure gold is given to the child orally along with honey, ghrit (ghee) and other herbs. It helps in boosting up the intellectual power, physical strength and produces generalized immunity in the body without causing any adverse effect. It is the need of the hour to conduct more and more researches on alternatives as swarnaprashana and main stream them. As they will not only help in creating a strong and healthy generation in future but will also serve as an important contribution of Ayurveda to the world.

Keywords: Bala, Medha, Agni, Ayu, Lehan karm, Swarnaprashan