Stanya Kshaya: A review on Ayurvedic Concept of Lactational Deficiency

Abstract

Breast milk is considered the nectar of life for a child, offering numerous benefits to both mother and child. Ayurvedic classics have long extolled the virtues of breast milk, recommending exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding up to one year or more. This recommendation is echoed by the World Health Organization (WHO), which suggests exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by nutritionally adequate complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding up to two years or beyond. Human milk is uniquely superior for infant feeding due to its species-specific composition. While an initial decrease in milk secretion (Stanya pravrutti) is normal during the first 2-3 days postpartum, persistent difficulty in establishing breastfeeding due to reduced milk secretion or lactational insufficiency later after establishment of breast-feeding leads to nutritional deficiencies thereby leading to growth spurts and developmental delays. These reduction in breast feeding is considered as Stanya Kshaya in Ayurveda. Prompt attention and treatment are crucial, as breast milk is essential for infant nutrition. Ayurveda recommend natural remedies and lifestyle modifications to help improve breast milk production and address Stanya Kshaya. This review article provides an overview of Stanya Kshaya, along with its causes, and treatment modalities, as described in the ancient Ayurvedic texts.