Suvarnaprashan - What To Expect

Suvarnaprashan, also called as Swarnabindu prashan or Swarnaprashan is a treatment modality used in the Ayurvedic sciences for the enhancement of the immune system, boosting concentration and improving the intelligence of children. ‘Suvarna’ means gold and ‘Prashan’ means administration, which literally means administration of gold. Colloidal gold in the form of fine particles of metallic gold or the ‘swarna bhasma’ is administered to children, usually in the age groups of 0-15 years, as advised in the Ayurvedic literature. It is considered to be an ancient health tonic having multiple benefits in children. Its primary actions are the improvement of the functions of the brain, immune system and skin. It protects children from recurring infections.

Suvarnaprashan Sanskar is the technique which is considered to be immune-modulatory and is an ancient ritual undertaken in the Hindu families for children. At a specific period, is given to the children at the sunrise on every Pushya Nakshatra for at least a period of one year. However, some experienced ‘vaidyas’ or the Ayurvedic doctors are of the opinion that a low dose of Suvarnaprashan (less than 0.2mg per dose) for a period of 3 months should be given. Suvarnaprashan can also be given for 10 to 12 days per month and such 6‐12 cycles should be repeated to get maximum health benefits. The main ingredients in a dose of Suvarnaprashan are – Nano particles of pure gold, pure cow Ghee, unfiltered honey and water. Dosage of the swarna bhasma is calculated according to the body wight of the child. An amount of 0.25 to 0.50 mg per Kg body weight in a single dose of Suvarnaprashan is the ideal dose for infants and children up to age of 15 years.

Also, the total dosage should not exceed 30 mg per day if child is overweight. Ratio for the addition of ghee and honey is 1:3, where 1 part of cow ghee and 3 parts honey are added in the mixture. The benefits of using this technique has been described widely across Hindu scriptures on Ayurvedic medicines. The immune system of the children has been observed with evidences to become stronger. Its action of strengthening the immune system protects children from seasonal infections. Also on contraction of diseases, recovery is quicker. It acts in increasing the physical strength and rate of growth of the infant. Cognitive functions of the brain, intelligence and memory power also improve. Digestive power of the stomach of the child increases and digestion related complaints of the child reduce.  It also acts on the appetite of the child. It affects the overall health of the children across all ages after administration in a positive manner. Quick absorption in the body of the infants and children is the basis of its beneficial effects.

The gold ash used in Suvarnaprashan has been observed to act on the macrophages present in peritoneum, phagocytes, catecholamines in the brain, 5 HT and the plasma cortisone levels. Apart from its immunomodulatory function, it has a free radical scavenging activity. It is also an analgesic and anti-stress medication. Standardizing of the preparation, dose and administration protocol is a necessity to propagate its use as a highly recommended medication for a better health of the children. It should be brought in use on a community level, to combat diseases of the young age and also to curb the spread of epidemics. It can be promoted as a preventive treatment in the society.

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