Importance of Breastfeeding
In Indian culture, a mother holds a divine status as she endures various hardships, including nurturing a fetus, enduring the stresses of labor, and nourishing the newborn with breast milk. The birth of a baby creates a special bond, and breastfeeding plays a vital role in this connection. The breastfeeding benefits extend beyond mere nourishment; they encompass emotional and physical health advantages for both mother and child. The arrival of a baby requires additional nutrition for the mother, as breast milk is the best nutrition for the newborn and is optimal for human infants. Understanding the breastfeeding benefits highlights how this natural process supports both maternal and infant health in profound ways. These breastfeeding benefits are essential not just for the baby’s growth but also for fostering a healthy relationship between mother and child, making it a cherished practice in Indian culture
Also Read: Breastfeeding: The Heart Of Motherhood
Lactation in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, breastfeeding is seen as a sanskara (a ritual) and is encouraged with
auspicious hymns. Sthanya (breast milk) is derived from the ahara rasa (essence of
food), providing pushti (nourishment) and arogyam (good health) for the baby. Ayurveda
also describes the role of a dhatri (wet nurse) if the mother’s milk is insufficient. The
ancient text Susruta Samhita emphasizes that emotions, including love and concern for
the baby, can stimulate milk ejection, highlighting the psychological factors that play a
role in lactation.
Method of Breastfeeding
Traditional Ayurvedic methods for breastfeeding are outlined as sthanyapana vidhi. In the Charaka Samhita, it’s recommended that the mother should take a bath, wear clean clothes, and apply herbs like aindri, brahmi, and shatavari, which promote milk production and enhance breastfeeding benefits. Before feeding, a small amount of milk is expressed to ensure the baby latches on better, maximizing the breastfeeding benefits. The mother can choose any comfortable position for feeding, ensuring the baby’s body is fully supported. By following these traditional practices, mothers can experience significant breastfeeding benefits, supporting both their health and their baby’s growth
Best Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mother and Baby
Breastfeeding is a gift for both mother and baby, providing numerous health benefits:
● Breast milk delivers essential nutrients like vitamins, proteins, and fats in an
easily digestible form.
● Mother’s milk contains immunoglobulins, offering protection against infections.
● Lactation releases oxytocin, reducing the risk of postpartum depression and
helping the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy state.
● Extended breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and
heart disease.
● The release of oxytocin and prolactin strengthens the bond between mother and
baby, reducing stress and anxiety.
Modes for Healthy Lactation
To ensure optimal quality and quantity of breast milk, Ayurveda suggests various
practices, including the best foods to boost breast milk production:
● Herbs: Stanyajanana (galactagogue) herbs like Shatavari, vidari, musali,
ashwagandha, and durva are used to support lactation.
● Best Foods to Boost Breast Milk Production: Ayurveda encourages
consuming curd, ghee, sugar cane, brown rice, meat soup, wheat, barley,
sesame, garlic, black gram, and coconut. Foods rich in sweet, sour, and salty
tastes, as well as milk processed with galactagogue herbs, can enhance milk
production.
● Lifestyle: Factors like sleep, mental peace, and a balanced lifestyle are essential
for healthy lactation. Avoiding stress and consulting an Ayurvedic physician for
lifestyle adjustments can support milk production.
● Yoga: Yoga and meditation support a mother’s physical and mental well-being.
Postnatal yoga poses like Trikonasana, Ardha Chakrasana, and Shashankasana
aid in strength, vitality, and lactation.
Lactation is influenced by lifestyle and emotional well-being. As per Ayurveda, breast
milk, referred to as Mahabhaishajya (the best medicine), is a priceless gift a mother can
offer. Following Ayurvedic guidelines for healthy lactation can create a fulfilling
breastfeeding experience.
For more information or to book an appointment, please visit our website or contact us
directly. We look forward to welcoming you to Mathruthvam.
FAQ
Why is breastfeeding emphasized in Indian culture and Ayurveda?
In Indian culture, breastfeeding is considered a sacred bond between mother and child, with profound physical and emotional benefits. Ayurveda sees it as a ritual (sanskara) that provides vital nourishment and immunity to the baby, supported by lifestyle practices that enhance lactation and strengthen the mother-baby connection.
What are some Ayurvedic practices to enhance breast milk production?
Ayurveda recommends specific herbs like Shatavari, ashwagandha, and vidari to support milk production. Additionally, foods such as ghee, curd, coconut, and barley are encouraged. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle, adequate rest, and practicing yoga also play a vital role in promoting healthy lactation.
How does breastfeeding benefit both the mother and the baby?
Breastfeeding offers the baby essential nutrients, immunoglobulins for immune support, and helps strengthen the mother-child bond. For the mother, it can reduce the risk of postpartum depression, aid in postpartum recovery, and lower the chances of certain cancers and heart disease.
