Abstract

Prof. Dr. Priyanka Mehra*, Prof. Dr. Keerti Verma, Prof. Dr. Reena Dixit

ABSTRACT

Undernutrition is a major public health concern in many developing countries. It is estimated that about 21% of all global health impairments and 35% of deaths among children under five are linked to childhood undernutrition. A child’s nutritional status serves as a key indicator of the overall health and well-being of a community. In Ayurveda, the condition of being underweight due to malnutrition is referred to as “Karshya.” Individuals suffering from malnutrition often have weakened immunity, making them more vulnerable to infections and diseases. Ayurveda emphasizes prevention rather than merely treating symptoms. Karshya is classified as an Aptarapanajanya Vyadhi in Ayurvedic texts. Two primary contributing factors to its development are Alpasana (insufficient food intake) and Vishamasana (irregular or improper eating habits). These factors lead to disturbances in Vata and Agni, resulting in inadequate nourishment of the body. Classical Ayurvedic literature recommends managing Karshya through approaches such as Nidana Parivarjana (eliminating causative factors), Mridu Samshodhana (gentle purification), Shamana therapy (palliative treatment), and Laghu Santarpana (light nourishing diet), along with the use of medications rich in Madhura Rasa (sweet taste). Among these, Kushmanda Avleha has been selected as a therapeutic preparation for managing Karshya.