Abstract

PIPPALI GHRITA: UNLOCKING EPIGENETIC PATHWAYS FOR OPTIMAL FETAL LUNG DEVELOPMENT – AN AYURVEDIC INSIGHT

Dr. Adarsha C. Patil* and Dr. Lavanya S.

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Abstract

Optimizing fetal lung maturation is critical for preventing neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS), a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Surfactant deficiency in preterm neonates necessitates medical interventions such as antenatal corticosteroids and exogenous surfactant therapy. Ayurveda, with its holistic approach, presents novel bioenhancing formulations that may support pulmonary development. Pippali Ghrita, a lipid-based Ayurvedic formulation containing Piper longum (Pippali), is traditionally recognized for its rasayana (rejuvenative) and medhya (nootropic) properties. Emerging pharmacological insights suggest that piperine, the active alkaloid in Pippali, may modulate glucocorticoid receptor pathways, enhance lipid metabolism, and epigenetically regulate surfactant protein gene expression. The lipophilic nature of Ghrita (ghee) further facilitates pulmonary surfactant synthesis by optimizing phospholipid availability, a key component of alveolar stability. This article explores the translational potential of Pippali Ghrita as a novel adjunct in fetal lung maturation, integrating Ayurvedic principles with modern perinatal medicine. A systematic review of molecular mechanisms, preclinical findings, and potential clinical applications is presented, highlighting the need for rigorous trials to establish its efficacy and safety in neonatal care. This research-driven approach could pave the way for evidence-based Ayurvedic interventions in perinatal medicine, bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary neonatology.

Keywords: Pippali Ghrita, fetal lung mat uration, Pi ppali ghrita , epigenetic regulation, integrative neonatology.