Pregnancy is a special time, a time in which expectant parents want to pave the way for a healthy child. In Ayurveda, pregnancy is a time for nourishment. Focusing on foods, herbs, and practices that are mild and nutritious is best during pregnancy. Chyawanprash, a special Ayurvedic jam, is considered safe and supportive. Read on to learn about chyawanprash in pregnancy and other Ayurvedic protocols for optimal wellness during pregnancy.
A Time For Nourishment
Pregnancy is a time for nourishment. During this time, it is best to avoid the extremes, such as extremely hot, spicy, and bitter herbs. Also, perhaps it goes without saying, but one should use extreme caution around purgatives or any strongly purifying herbs during pregnancy. Since the mother needs to nourish her own body as well as that of the child, extra care and nutrition are called for. During pregnancy, Ayurveda suggests rejuvenating, nourishing herbs such as shatavari, ashwagandha, bala, and kapikacchu (1). That said, it is always wise to consult with your doctor about adding herbs and supplements during pregnancy.
What About Chyawanprash In Pregnancy?
Since nutritive herbs are best during pregnancy, you may wonder, “what about chyawanprash in pregnancy?” After all, chyawanprash is full of nourishing rasayanas. Chyawanprash is generally considered safe during pregnancy. In fact, many Ayurvedic practitioners suggest chyawanprash during the prenatal period for its nutritive qualities.
Building Blood With Amalaki
One of the reasons why Ayurveda suggests chyawanprash in pregnancy is that it contains amalaki. Amalaki, or amla berry, is an incredibly rich source of vitamin C. Also, it is a well-respected blood-builder in Ayurveda. For this reason, it is helpful for counteracting the depletion that often comes with pregnancy. In addition, amalaki nourishes the bones and supports healthy liver function (2). Amalaki forms the base of chyawanprash. So, by taking a teaspoon of chyawanprash daily, you are getting a healthy dose of blood-building, iron-rich, vitamin C-rich amalaki (2).
Chyawanprash: A Rich Source of Rasayana
Rasayanas are a special Ayurvedic category of herbs that are deeply rejuvenating. One of the benefits of chyawanprash during pregnancy is that you get a wealth of nutritive herbs in one bite. In addition to amalaki, some of the other herbs contained within chyawanprash are shatavari, ashwagandha, ginger, cinnamon, saffron, holy basil, and bacopa...and the list goes on! Furthermore, PIOR Living’s chyawanprash formula serves up these herbs in a nourishing base of honey, Ghruta (Ayurvedic ghee), and cold-pressed black sesame oil. It is easy to see why chyawanprash in pregnancy is suggested for daily nourishment and rejuvenation. Of course, it is always prudent to be mindful of one’s unique health situation. Seeking the guidance of experts who know your particular health history is always smart, especially during the tender time of pregnancy.
Greta Kent-Stoll is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (NAMA), as well as a writer, editor, and Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher. Her Ayurveda practice is based in Asheville, North Carolina and she is the co-owner of Iyengar Yoga Asheville.
References
(1) Frawley, D. (2000). Ayurvedic Healing: A Comprehensive Guide. Lotus Press. (2) Dass, V. (2013). Ayurvedic Herbology East & West. Lotus Press.