Cerebral palsy is a complex neuro developmental disorder that affects movement, posture and
muscle coordination, leading to lifelong disabilities. Despite significant advances in medical
research, the etiology of cerebral palsy remains multifactorial and largely elusive. In recent
years, there has been growing interest in exploring complementary and alternative medicine
approaches, such as Ayurveda, to address the prevention and management of cerebral palsy.
This paper aims to investigate the Ayurvedic preventive paradigm for cerebral palsy by
reviewing relevant literature and empirical evidence. Ayurveda, a traditional system of
medicine originating from ancient India, is based on a holistic approach that considers the
individual’s physical, mental and spiritual well-being. The Ayurvedic perspective on cerebralpalsy posits that imbalance in the three doshas- vata, pitta, and kapha- are fundamental in its
pathogenesis.
The study critically evaluates Ayurvedic preventive measures that encompass age of the
couple, preconception care, prenatal care and postnatal interventions. Preconception care
emphasizes parental health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of balanced diet,
lifestyle modifications and detoxification to ensure healthy progeny. Prenatal care involves
nurturing the expectant mother with specific dietary regimens, herbs and therapies to promote
proper fetal development and prevent complications.
Furthermore, the paper delves into postnatal interventions aimed at providing
comprehensive care to the newborn. Ayurvedic therapies, including abhyanga (oil massage),
swedhana (sudation), and specific herbal formulations, are used to support neurodevelopmental
milestones and enhance neuromuscular functions. Additionally, dietary recommendations
incorporating herbs and nutritional suppliments, play a significant role in bolstering the child’s
physical and cognitive development.
Integrating Ayurvedic principles with conventional medical approaches may offer a
holistic and personalized approach to mitigate the risk of cerebral palsy and potentially improve
the quality of life for affected individuals. However, further collaborative research efforts are
necessary to validate and integrate Ayurveda into mainstream healthcare practices for cerebral
palsy prevention.
Keywords: cerebral palsy, Ayurvedic measures, prevention, Ayurvedic classics, Healthy progeny
Publication date: 01/04/2025
https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2025/April/MS_IJBPAS_2025_8897.pdf
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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2025/14.4.8897
