ROLE OF SUVARNAPRASHAN IN DELEYED DEVELOPMENT: AYURVEDIC REVIEW

Delayed developmental milestones in children, often manifesting as motor, cognitive, or speech delays, pose significant challenges to overall growth and future quality of life. Early interventions that enhance neurodevelopmental functions are crucial in such conditions. Suvarnaprashan, a time-honored Ayurvedic pediatric practice described by Acharya Kashyapa, involves administering processed gold along with herbal formulations, ghee, and honey. It is traditionally acclaimed for promoting medhā (intellect), bala (strength), varṇa (complexion), and overall immunity. The unique combination of Swarna bhasma with ghrita and madhu is believed to act as a potent rasayana, nourishing the dhatus, enhancing neuronal connectivity, and supporting ojas formation, thereby aiding both physical and mental development. Modern studies indicate that gold nanoparticles and certain herbal components may exert neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, and cognition-enhancing effects, providing a scientific rationale for its classical claims. In cases of delayed development, suvarnaprashan may play a supportive role in improving speech, memory, concentration, psychomotor activity, and general immunity when integrated with standard therapeutic and rehabilitative measures. Thus, it holds promise as a safe, natural, and holistic intervention for augmenting neurodevelopment in children with delayed milestones, though further clinical research is required for evidence-based validation.