SUTIKA PARICHARYA AND STANYAJANANA DRAVYAS: POSTNATAL CARE AND AYURVEDIC GALACTAGOGUES — A NARRATIVE REVIEW
Background: The postnatal period is a time of physical recovery, establishment of breastfeeding and heightened vulnerability to depression for the mother. Ayurveda describes a structured postnatal regimen, Sutika paricharya, and a group of lactation-promoting drugs, Stanyajanana dravyas. Perceived insufficient milk is one of the commonest reasons for early cessation of breastfeeding, and herbal galactagogues are widely used in India and elsewhere. Objective: To review the classical principles of Sutika paricharya and Stanyajanana dravyas, to examine their correspondence with current postnatal care, and to evaluate the clinical evidence for Ayurvedic and related herbal galactagogues. Methods: Classical texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Kashyapa Samhita) were reviewed. PubMed was searched for systematic reviews, randomised controlled trials and observational and experimental studies on postnatal care, traditional postpartum practices, galactagogues, Shatavari, fenugreek, ginger and Ayurvedic formulations. Findings were synthesised narratively. Results: Sutika paricharya emphasises rest, oleation, warm and easily digestible food, gradual restoration of strength and protection from cold and emotional stress, aims that broadly match modern postnatal care, although some traditional food and fluid restrictions may compromise nutrition. A Cochrane review of 41 trials found very low-certainty evidence that natural galactagogues may increase milk volume. Three randomised placebo-controlled trials from India, two of Shatavari preparations and one of a multi-herb Ayurvedic granule, reported increased early milk volume or higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding, without serious adverse events. Ginger may increase milk volume after vaginal birth. A trial of lactation cookies containing fenugreek showed no benefit. Conclusion: Sutika paricharya offers a coherent framework for postnatal recovery, and Shatavari is the best-supported Ayurvedic galactagogue. Galactagogues should support, not replace, skilled breastfeeding support, and larger independent trials with infant safety outcomes are needed.