Abstract

PHOTOTHERAPY: A MODERN EXTENSION OF SWEDANA CHIKITSA FOR NEONATAL JAUNDICE

Srivastava Mayank*

Abstract

During the first week of life of a neonate, jaundice is an important cause of concern due to an associated risk of Kernicterus. Not much is said directly in ancient Indian medical literatures about neonatal jaundice or its management. Rise in Ama Rupa of bilrubin (the unconjugated bilirubin), its spread by Vata and the Kapha (the biological functional entities) dominant phase of life are three core issues which need to be addressed for its management on Ayurvedic lines. Atapa Sweda (of rising sun) being a mild and effective way of Vata Kapha Shamana (pacification) and Amapachana can be used in its management, reinforced by the fact that Atharveda itself had recommended the use of Gorohita (reddish) coloured sunrays for curing Kamala (Jaundice). Modern phototherapy can be considered as a refined method of Atapa Swedana for processing the Ama form of bilirubin and phototherapy lights seem to be a judicious mix of nine properties of Swedana Dravyas (drugs causing perspiration). Newer phototherapy lights prepared by satisfying both Ayurveda and modern criteria may prove to be more safe and efficacious. This paper also demonstrates the importance of harmonious cross system learning and vice versa validation of concepts for devising safer and effective methods of treatment, apart from exploring the inner scientific logic of Ayurveda.

Keywords: Atapa Swedana, Ayurveda, Neonatal jaundice, Phototherapy, Unconjugated bilirubin.