Dr. Partha Monda, BAMS, PG (scholar)
The word “ Swarnaprashana “ is derived from two words – “Swarna” and “Prashana”. The term Swarna means metal Gold whereas Prashana refers to the act of eating or consuming . Swarnaprashana hence refers to the act of consuming or ingesting gold in the prescribed dose and quantity in the suggested manner. This activity is also sometimes referred to as Swarna Bindu Prashana or Suvarna prashan . Swarnaprashana sanskar is one of the sixteen essential Sanskarsdescribed for children in classical Ayurveda text.
Advantages of swarna prasan – Medha Vardhana – improvement in intelligence, Agni Vardhana – improvement in digestion strength
Bala Vardhana – improvement in strength and immunity, Ayushya Vardhana – Improvement in life span, Punya – Auspicious, Vrushya – Aphrodisiac, Grahapaha – relieves bad evils.By administering Swarna for a month time, child becomes super-intelligent.
By administering for up to six months, person becomes Shruta Dhara – can remember whatever the child hears. Contents of swarnaprashan –it is a unique combination of swarna bhasma (gold ash) mixed with honey and ghee that is mixed with different medhya(intellect promoting)herbal extracts like vacha, brahmi, shankupushpi, etc.
Mode of action -Swarna Prashana contains gold as the main ingredient. It is made into suvarna bhasma through a special process because gold cannot be consumed in its metallic form. Gold is known to boost immunity as well as enhance memory, Another important ingredient present in Swarna Prashana is the honey. Honey is prepared by collection of pollen grains. Since pollen grains are known to cause allergic reactions, consumption of honey in very low doses is believed to gradually prepare the body to fight against other allergens. Honey is also known to act against inflammation and improve digestion, Ghee or Ghrita which is the third important component of Swarna Prashana acts as an effective medium in which herbal medications can be prepared. Ghee or Ghrita shows unique properties of increasing the medicinal values of herbs added to it.
