Synergising?Prasuti?Tantra?and?Bal?Roga?for Maternal– Infant?Microbiome?Balance?During?the First?1000?Days

Abstract

Abstract: The first 1000?days—from conception to a child’s second birthday—shape lifelong metabolic, immune, and neuro behavioural trajectories. Classical Ayurvedic obstetrics (Prasuti?Tantra) emphasises Garbhini?Paricharya (antenatal regimen) and Sootika?Paricharya (post partum care), while Bal?Roga focuses on neonatal and paediatric wellbeing. Contemporary microbiome science corroborates many of these ancient prescriptions, linking maternal gut, vaginal, and breast milk flora to infant colonisation patterns that guard against allergies, obesity, and neuro developmental disorders. This narrative review triangulates textual evidence from Charaka?Samhita, Sushruta?Samhita, and Kashyapa?Samhita with 72 modern trials on diet, probiotics, and early life microbial exposures. Key Ayurvedic interventions— such as Satmya taila Abhyanga, Shatavari Ghrita supplementation, and Panchkola based Agni deepana soups—are analysed for their prebiotic phytochemical profiles and immunomodulatory actions. We propose an integrative protocol encompassing trimester wise Ahara Vihara guidelines, Dhoopan fumigation to modulate home aerobiome, and neonatal Jatakarma rites adapted to urban hygiene standards. Potential biomarkers (? diversit indices, short chain fatty acid levels, maternal cortisol) are outlined for future mixed method studies. Ethical considerations, including informed consent for ritual practices and the preservation of cultural identity, are discussed to ensure culturally safe implementation in diverse populations.

Keywords: Maternal–Infant?Health, Ayurveda Microbiome Bal?Roga, Prasuti?Tantra