OA03.10. Public health initiative on swarnamrita prashana: A multicentric trial

PURPOSE: Ayurvedic preventive measure to increase immunity (Vyadhikshamatwa) among children of age group 016 years. METHOD: Swarnamrita Prashana (herbomineral formulation) a traditional recipe for child growth, memory enhancement and also to promote longevity and immunity were administered to children between 016 years once a month on Pushyanakshatra day. The study started on 29th May 2009 and still going on at 15 centers. Till date 51 cycles of Swarnamrita Prashana have been administered. Anthropometric measurements and complete medical and social history were recorded. RESULT: Overall 3,76,903 doses of Swarnamrita Prashana have been administered to children in this public health initiative. Public response was assessed through questionnaire after the completion of 21 (monthly) doses. Parents reported improvement of mental and physical health among 94.73% children, 56.14% children were free from recurrent respiratory tract infections in past 6 months, 79.82% improvement in gastro intestinal tract complaints with 92.10% parents volunteered to spread to their neighbours about Swarnamrita Prashana and its benefits. CONCLUSION: Comprehensive controlled clinical trials with immunological profile determination can only be opened for wide use in National Health Programme for the benefit of children suffering from immune deficiencies and malnutrition. Ultimately, Ayurveda could improve the quality of life through health promotional strategies by developing integrated and multi sectorial approach for population based prevention interventions.