A REVIEW ON LEHANA IN BALROGA: CLASSICAL INSIGHTS AND CONTEMPORARY RELEVANCE

Lehana is a classical Ayurvedic pediatric intervention described in Kashyapa Saṃhita and other texts, referring to the administration of specific medicated preparations to infants and children for promoting health, immunity, and intellectual development. It includes substances such as Suvarna, Ghṛta, Madhu, and Medhya dravyas administered in small quantities to enhance strength, complexion, digestive capacity, and resistance against diseases. The practice of Lehana is recommended particularly in children with low birth weight, poor immunity, delayed milestones, and recurrent infections. The principle behind Lehana is not merely nutritional supplementation but comprehensive bio-enhancement, targeting physical growth, mental development, and immune modulation. It functions through Rasāyana and Medhya properties, thereby supporting both body and mind. Classical texts describe various formulations like Suvarnaprāśana, Ghṛta preparations, and herbal pastes as effective Lehana yogas. Preventive as well as promotive aspects of child health are emphasized, making it an integral part of Bālrog chikitsā. Modern scientific perspectives correlate Lehana with immunomodulation, neuroprotection, and growth promotion. Such practices, when validated through clinical research, may provide safe, cost-effective, and holistic pediatric health solutions.