Abstract

AN AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO PREVENT AND CONTROL CHILDHOOD CONSTIPATION

Jitendra Kumar*, Prem Prakash Vyas, Harish Kumar Singhal and Meeta Jhala

ABSTRACT

Constipation is a common problem in children which is defined as a delay or difficulty in defecation that persists for longer than two weeks. Pediatricians treat it as one of the most frequent pathological and functional conditions. The most common type of constipation is functional constipation among 90 to 95% of all cases while 5 to 10% of children have organic pathology in background.[1] Malavibandha is a symptom, not an illness; according to Ayurveda, Vibandha means Apravrutti, hence it might be defined as Mala Apravrutti. Vibandha is a common clinical condition that usually refers to constipation. It manifests as irregular bowel movements, firm stools, and defecation difficulty. The purpose of the current study is to properly understand the etiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestation of Vibandha (constipation) and how to prevent, manage and treat it using an Ayurvedic perspective.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Bowel Movements, Constipation, Pediatrician, Vibandha.