Prakara Yogas as an Immunomodulator during Infancy - A Critical Evaluation

Abstract

Infancy is a crucial phase where the child comes across many mild to life threatening infections. The immunodeficiency of this period is compensated to some extend by the vertically transmitted antibodies from mother, exclusive breast feeding and through proper vaccination. But the protection offered by the maternal antibodies is transient and wanes off within 1 year. Concept of exclusive breastfeeding cannot be met in all circumstances especially in working mothers. Vaccinations provide protection against specific infections. In the present setting of pandemic, where the difficulties faced in tackling the spread of infections are witnessed, vaccinations become chaotic due to the unpredictable mutations of microbes. At this juncture arises the need for a well-built generalized immunity that will protect against a number of infections irrespective of the causative organism. Prakara Yogas are various immunomodulatory formulations elaborated in the textbook Arogyaraksha Kalpadruma that are scheduled to be administered during childhood in order to prevent diseases. The drug combinations in Prakara Yogas counteract the expected Dosha Vaishamya at specific ages, stabilize Agni and enhances immunity thereby preventing the onset of diseases. For protecting our future generations, usage of these formulations should be promoted for boosting their innate immunity, rather than attaining disease specific immunity against diseases through vaccination. This paper elaborates Prakara Yogas advised during infancy and also an attempt is made to critically analyse the formulations in aiding immunomodulation.