Ayurvedic Prenatal and Postpartum Care

by Kottakkal Support October 25, 2023

Ayurveda is becoming exceedingly popular for both prenatal and postpartum care. Many women are seeking out Ayurveda to support their journey from pregnancy to motherhood. Ayurveda offers a well-developed support plan for both prenatal and postpartum care known as Garbhini Paricharya.

Ayurveda offers specific recommendations from preconception to postpartum. Every step of the way there are foods and lifestyle recommendations to follow. The goal is for both mother and baby to experience the best health possible.

Garbhini Paricharya for Prenatal

Garbhini Paricharya is a nine month dietary program that is unique to Ayurveda. The diet changes along with the growth of the fetus in the womb and at the same time ensures the best health for the mother. There are small pockets where this is still practiced in India by midwives. The comprehensive prenatal program is only practiced by Vaidyas of the classical Ayurvedic tradition.

When the time comes for labor and delivery, the mother’s body undergoes great exhaustion both mentally and physically. This is when Vata dosha becomes even more disturbed and the key toward pacifying it begins the first day after delivery. Mom and baby should feel nourished, safe, and able to rest in a quiet space where they can bond. This supports and rejuvenates the disturbed vata dosha and ensures the healthiest outcome for both mother and baby. 

During postpartum, Ayurveda recommends a specific diet, lifestyle and herbal supplement program that support both mother and baby. To learn more, read our article Ayurvedic Guide to Healthy Postpartum.

Supplements for Prenatal

Mahadhanwantaram Gulika also known as Garbharakshini. The main herb jiraka (cumin) helps balance vata dosha, supports healthy digestion during pregnancy, nourishes the fetus, strengthens muscles, and balances female hormones.

Sukhaprasavada Ghritam balances vata dosha. The main herb upodika supports muscle relaxation during birth and supports the pelvis.

Supplements for Postpartum

Puli Leham balances both vata and pitta dosha. The main herb is garlic which helps support postpartum health by balancing the menstrual cycle.

Lactokot Granule balances vata and pitta dosha. The main herb shatavari is a natural galactagogue that supports healthy breast milk production. It is a powerful supplement that supports postpartum care as it boosts energy and strength by nourishing all seven dhatus (body tissues).

Shatavarigulam balances both pitta and vata dosha. The main herb Shatavari is well-known for supporting the female reproductive system and balancing female hormones.  

Ashoka Arishtam balances both vata and pitta doshas. The main herb Ashoka supports the female menstrual cycles and healthy conception.

Jiraka Arishtam balances both vata and pitta dosha, the main herb jiraka (cumin) helps support healthy digestion and helps increase appetite during postpartum.   

Dashmula Arishtam balances both vata and kapha dosha, the main herb dasamula helps rebuild strength and rejuvenation during postpartum.

Massage Oil for Postpartum

Maha Bala Oil strongly balances vata dosha. The main herb bala nourishes and supports female reproductive health, postpartum care, and nourishes bones, muscles and nerves.

 AYURVEDIC CONSULTATION

Kottakkal is committed to offering the highest quality Ayurvedic Healthcare. We offer two ways to have an Ayurvedic consultation. 1. Free 15-minute Consultation with our Ayurvedic practitioner, Julie Wardwell for when you need a product recommendation for a basic health problem. 2. In-depth Consultation with our Ayurvedic doctor, Vaidya Vishwanath Guddadar for when your condition is chronic with multiple symptoms.

Article Reference:

• Koppikar, Vaidya S. “Garbhini Paricharya (Regimen for the pregnant woman).” Ancient science of life vol. 28,1 (2008): 37-9.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Kottakkal Ayurveda products and information are not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. If you have serious, acute, or chronic health problems, please consult a trained health professional. If you are seeking the advice of a trained Ayurvedic professional, call (800) 215-9934 or email us at contact@kottakkal.shop. We will provide you with information to consult with Ayurvedic professionals. Always check with your doctor before taking herbs when pregnant or nursing.

---

Also in Healing with Kottakkal Ayurveda