Pumsavana Karma. All might still be wondering are we living in a world of myth or science. For understanding that you have to imagine what really was it like to be in a system of ancient Indian cultures and health practices.
Ancient Indian cultures and scientific scriptures like dharma shastras and Ayurveda was just an exemplary illustration surpassing even the cartesian dualism of the metaphysical and psychological realms. The contemporary means of approach to measure and validate such theories often seems futile. One such theory that has been invariably interpreted was the Pumsavana karma. Pumsavana karma, the rite of quickening the fetus or begetting a healthy progeny, is one among the 16 sacraments which was well popular and followed as part of ancient Indian culture. The theories and scientific validations on Pumsavana karma roots back to Vedic period, wherein it commemorates the importance of body cleansing and nourishing procedures of either parents’ prior getting conceived. It was then followed by Vedic chants near yajna fire and a predefined set of Ayurvedic procedures like internal medications & Nasya karma (nasal instillation). The ritual was individually formulated with special reference to the necessities of mother, like whether it is to be done in order to conceive a healthy progeny or to prevent miscarriages or even for begetting a male or female progeny. Rather than doing it for desired sex of a child, the concept of Pumsavana is mainly propagated for begetting a healthy and intelligent progeny with strength and longevity.
Pregnancy and motherhood are always considered precious and divine. Having a healthy pregnancy is one of the optimal means to promote a healthy birth. Ayurveda has given prime importance to women’s health during every phase of her life. The antenatal and postnatal life of women is a period of happiness and contentment wherein utmost care is also necessary for managing her physical and mental agonies through proper nutritional requirements, medicaments, psychological support, do’s and don’ts and certain lifestyle practices including individualized Ayurveda formulations and yoga practices which are well described in our Ayurveda classics. Hence it is necessary to take care of a women throughout her lifecycle especially during the reproductive phase. The concept of Ritucharya (Regimens during menstrual phase), Garbha Sanskara (Preconception care), Garbhini Paricharya (Ante-Natal Care), Sootika Paricharya (Postnatal/ Puerperal Care), etc are of atmost importance for treasuring to the richness of a progeny.
For a positive pregnancy and wonderful motherhood experience, contact the AVP Research Foundation Ayurveda Speciality clinics: GOTRA – Gynecology and obstetrics.
Author:
Dr Santhi Krishna A S
Research Associate
AVP Research Foundation
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