The Role of Rasaja Bhava (Nourishing Factors) in Development of Garbha (Embryo/Foetus)

Archaic scholars of Ayurveda lay great emphasize on intake of Ahara (food) as best source for nourishment and has a prime role in growth and development of foetus during pregnancy. In order to achieve a healthy progeny, Ayurveda classics have elucidated wholesome regimen to be followed by the parents before and after conception. There are specific procreating factors which help for the growth of embryo known as Matrujadi shad bhava (maternal and other 5 factors). Shadbhava (six factors) consist of Matruja, pitruja, Atmaja, Rasaja, Satmyaja and Satwaja in which Rasaja bhava plays an important role in providing nutrition to the foetus. The concept of Upasneha, Upasweda, Ambu, Apara and Nabhinadi are involved in nourishment of embryo/foetus at different stages of development. Acharya have drawn attention to certain food habits, to be avoided by the pregnant woman to refrain from abnormalities in the offspring. The concept of nutrition in Garbhini (Gravid Women) explained in classics has similarity with contemporary science.

An Observational Study Of Anencephalous Fetuses Mounted As Museum Specimen

Neural tube defects (NTDs) constitute the most frequently encountered congenital anomalies of the centralnervous system. Neural tube defects result from the defective closure of the neural tube during embryogenesis.Most defects of the brain and spinal cord result from abnormal closure of the neural folds in the third and fifthweeks of development. Anencephaly and Spina bifida are two most common types of neural tube defects.Anencephaly also known as exencephaly results due to failure of the anterior neuropore to close. Spina bifidaresults from defective neural tube closure along some or the entire length of the vertebral column. Antenataldiagnosis of the condition can be made by ultrasonography in later part of pregnancy, since the vault of the skullis absent and estimation of á fetoprotein level of the amniotic fluid. It is advisable to terminate the pregnancywhen anomalous condition is diagnosed. Better knowledge of unexpected foetal loss is the promise for betterparental counselling and for prevention of recurrences. .To prevents NTD, dietary supplements should be providedto low socioeconomic pregnant females. Periconceptional and 1st trimester folic acid supplementation is ofprime importance.