Review of Ayurveda and Modern Perspectives on Congenital Anomalies or Anatomical Abnormalities

Ayurveda is the fundamental science of medicine that covers all aspects of human life. It describes many diseases and classifies them into different categories based on their symptoms and origin. In this regard, Adibala Pravritta and Janmabala Pravritta are categorized under Garbhajanya vikriti, mainly arising from maternal or paternal problems and defects in progeny. The faulty diet and lifestyle of the mother are also considered responsible for congenital birth defects. Defects in Beeja & Beejabhaga play an important role in the pathogenesis of such diseases. Similar to Ayurveda, modern science also mentions structural anomalies and developmental issues like heart defects, spina bifida and club foot as common anatomical abnormalities. Ayurveda scholars mention various factors – Matrija, Pitrija, Aatmaja, Rasaja, Satmyaja and Sattvaja – as Shad Garbhkarabhavas that play a vital role in healthy progeny. Factors such as awful conduct, abnormalities in Shad Garbhkarabhavas and genetic predisposition trigger the pathogenesis of Garbhajanya vikriti.