The Connection Between Breast Milk Health and Infant Health

Breast milk, referred to as Stanya in Ayurveda, holds unparalleled significance in the nourishment and development of an infant. One of the key principles of Ayurveda pediatric care is the maintenance of healthy breast milk of the mother. It is not merely a source of nutrition but a dynamic, living tissue imbued with Prana (life force), reflecting the mother’s physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The intricate relationship between the health of Stanya and the infant’s overall health has been extensively elaborated in Ayurveda texts, weaving together elements of Dosha (bio-energetic principles), Rasa (taste), and Guna (qualities).

According to Ayurveda, Stanya is an Upadhatu (secondary tissue) of Rasa Dhatu (plasma and lymph), which is the primary essence derived from digested food. When the food consumed by a lactating mother is adequately digested, the essence is transformed into Stanya. The texts emphasise the purity of Stanya for it to fulfil its role as the infant’s sole source of nutrition in the initial months of life.
Ayurveda textbooks mention that the sweetness (Madhura Rasa) and unctuousness (Snigdha Guna) of Stanya are responsible for optimal infant growth. Proper lactation occurs when the channels (Srotas) are clear and the mother’s physical and mental states are balanced.

The Ayurveda classics provide detailed characteristics of healthy Stanya:

1. Colour: White like a conch shell (Shankha Shubhra).
2. Taste: Naturally sweet (Madhura Rasa).
3. Smell: Pleasant and natural (Sugandha).
4. Consistency: Uniform and thin, without frothing or streaking.
5. Water Test: Pure Stanya dissolves evenly in water (Jala Pariksha).
   These qualities ensure the infant’s nourishment, strength (Bala), longevity (Ayushya), and immunity (Vyadhi Kshamatva).

The vitiation of Stanya, termed Stanya Dushti, occurs due to the imbalance of the three Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Factors leading to Dushti include:

1. Diet (Ahara): Consumption of incompatible foods (Viruddha Ahara), overly spicy, sour, or salty foods, and processed or stale foods.
2. Lifestyle (Vihara): Erratic sleep patterns, lack of physical activity, and excessive stress.
3. Psychological State: Anxiety, anger, and grief are considered significant disruptors of Stanya Sampat (purity of milk).
4. Illnesses: Maternal diseases, such as mastitis or systemic imbalances, directly impact milk quality.
5. Environmental Factors: Exposure to pollutants, chemicals, and toxins can also vitiate Stanya.

The Ayurveda Samhitas classify Stanya Dushti based on the vitiation of specific Doshas. Each type exhibits distinct characteristics and impacts the infant differently:

1. Vataja Dushti (Vitiated by Vata): The milk becomes frothy (Phena), tasteless (Vairasya), and dry (Ruksha). Infants may experience flatulence, abdominal pain, and stunted growth.
2. Pittaja Dushti (Vitiated by Pitta): The milk appears discoloured (Vaivarnya), often yellowish or greenish, with a putrid smell (Durgandha). Infants may develop diarrhoea, skin rashes, and fever.
3. Kaphaja Dushti (Vitiated by Kapha): The milk becomes excessively thick (Guru), slimy (Picchila), and unctuous (Atisnigdha). Infants may suffer from respiratory congestion, excessive salivation, and lethargy.
4. Tridoshaja Dushti (Vitiation by all three Doshas): This condition results in severe disorders, including marasmus (Phakka) and chronic diarrhoea (Kshiralasaka).

Ayurveda emphasizes a holistic approach to restore the balance of Doshas and purify Stanya:
Dietary Recommendations for Lactating Mothers:

1. Vata-pacifying Foods: Warm, moist, and nourishing foods such as milk, ghee, and sweet fruits.
2. Pitta-pacifying Foods: Cooling and soothing foods like coconut water, cucumber, and milk with cardamom.
3. Kapha-pacifying Foods: Light, easily digestible foods like barley, green vegetables, and honey.

Ayurveda enlists a lot of herbs that can help to purify breast milk that has been vitiated. It also mentions several medicinal formulations that contain breast milk-purifying herbs. Two of the most noticeable herbs are as follows:

1. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): Known for its galactagogue(stanyajanana) properties, it enhances milk production and balances Pitta and Vata.
2. Vidarikand (Pueraria tuberosa): Improves milk quality by nourishing Rasa Dhatu.
   In addition, the Ayurveda textbooks mention a group of 10 drugs each for enhancing and purifying breast milk. Consult with our expert doctors to get proper and effective care through authentic Ayurveda treatments.

1. Meditation and Yoga: Practices like Nadi Shodhana Pranayama (alternate nostril breathing) help calm the mind and balance Doshas. Ayurveda procedures like Talam can also help
2. Restful Sleep: Adequate sleep ensures the proper functioning of Rasa Dhatu and uninterrupted milk secretion.
3. Positive Environment: Unconditional affection and a peaceful environment are vital for Stanya Prasruti (milk ejection).

The act of breastfeeding is considered sacred, akin to offering Amrita (nectar) to the infant. Acharya Kashyapa states that an affectionate bond between mother and child facilitates proper milk flow. Ayurveda texts also provide guidelines on breastfeeding:

1. Timing: Feed on demand but avoid overfeeding, which may vitiate Kapha.
2. Positioning: Ensure comfort for both mother and child to prevent physical strain and maintain milk flow.
3. Duration: Allow the infant to suckle adequately from one breast before switching to the other.

Modern science corroborates several Ayurveda insights. For instance, the importance of maternal nutrition and emotional well-being aligns with findings that stress and poor diet can alter milk composition. The microbiota of breast milk, akin to the concept of Prakriti (individual constitution), varies and influences the infant’s immunity and gut health.
Furthermore, the concept of Stanya Dushti resonates with studies on environmental toxins, maternal infections, and dietary imbalances affecting milk quality and infant health.

The Ayurveda perspective on the deep connection between breast milk and infant health emphasizes the intricate and holistic interdependence of a mother’s physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. According to this ancient wisdom, a mother who prioritizes the purity and vitality of her breast milk, or Stanya, fosters not just nourishment, but also the harmonious growth, robust immunity, and overall vitality of her child. 
The timeless principles of Ayurveda, which advocate for balance, natural living, and an attuned lifestyle, provide invaluable insights for nurturing the next generation with care and intention. As Ayurveda wisely stated, “Pure milk is the essence of life, and its nurturing touch forms the foundation of health and longevity,” highlighting the profound role that a mother’s milk plays in establishing a healthy future for her child.