A LITERATURE REVIEW OF GARBHINI CHHARDI (EMESIS GRAVIDARUM)

Monika Yadav*, Dr. Pravesh Tomar and Dr. Hem Prakash

ABSTRACT

Motherhood is a deeply cherished aspiration for every woman. The joy of a mother begins the moment new life stirs within her. Pregnancy is a unique experience that brings a profound sense of vitality and fulfillment, embodying the essence of womanhood while also presenting its own challenges. Pregnancy is a delicate phase characterized by numerous physiological, anatomical, hormonal and biochemical changes that extend beyond the reproductive organs to affect all body systems. These changes occur in response to the growing fetus and manifest in various ways, such as amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), morning sickness, breast discomfort, and fatigue. The body undergoes significant adaptations to support the developing life, making this period both a challenging and transformative experience for a woman. Nausea and vomiting affect 70-80% of pregnant women, usually in the early weeks. Proper management with suitable diet and care is essential to prevent complications like hyperemesis gravidarum, which can negatively impact both mother and baby. Ayurveda, the science of life, focuses on both prevention and cure. Chhardi (vomiting) can occur as a disease, symptom, or complication. However, direct references to Garbhini Chhardi (vomiting in pregnancy) are not explicitly found in Ayurvedic classics. Acharya Harita has mentioned it as one of eight Garbhopdrava.[1] Ayurvedic classics recognize Garbhini Chhardi as one of the Vyakta Garbha Lakshana, indicating it as a clear sign of pregnancy.[2,3] According to Acharya Charaka, pregnant women should be treated with the utmost care, like a pot filled with oil—where even a slight disturbance can cause the oil to spill.[4] While treating pregnant lady the medication is very gentle, potent, easily palatable and also they can be used for long term treatment without any harm to the foetus.

Keywords: Garbhini Chhardi, Emesis Gravidarum, Ayurveda, Vyakta Garbha Lakshana, Pathophysiology of Garbhini Chhardi, Management of Garbhini Chhardi.