Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems which was developed 3,000 years ago in India. It’s based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. While natural medicine tends to continue to be a controversial topic, it’s still an important part of Indian culture and treatment.
Ayurveda has recommendations for all age groups, including infants. And one common practice among Indian families is to feed their babies ‘Somva’ or ‘Somva 34’.
What is Somva?
Somva is a combination of 34 different Ayurvedic ingredients. Even though there is no scientific evidence to prove its benefits, it is believed to have healing properties for common infant troubles like diarrhea, sleeplessness, crying at night, indigestion, stomach pain and weakness. It is usually offered to babies as young as a few months old.
The 34 ingredients in Somva are:
- Kankach
- Ajmoda
- Harr
- Pipper
- Atis
- Suwa
- Jeera
- Pipperimool
- Nagarmotha
- Sunth
- Kalimirch
- Waiding
- Giloy
- Wapunba
- Pittapapad
- Kalajira
- Kanchur
- Chirayatu
- Kutaki
- Hingu
- Alawa
- Indrajawa
- Kadachhal
- Balwach
- Ajwain
- Awala
- Behada Chhal
- Mulhathi
- Hardi
- Kakada shingi
- Mardasing
- Jawantri
- Sonageru
- Sanchal
According to Ayurveda, Somva Helps to balance Vata, Pita and Kapha – the three Ayurvedic physiological principles – and keeps the baby healthy.
Can I give my Baby Somva?
Although no harmful effects have been reported from feeding babies Somva, no health benefits have been found either. In such a scenario, it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to infants under one year of age.
It is better not to use any advertised or over the counter preparations for your baby without getting the advice of your baby’s pediatrician. If your pediatrician gives you the green signal, you can feed Somva to babies over six months.
Please avoid feeding babies Somva without medical advice, since the large number of ingredients may have an adverse effect on some babies. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for babies under six months.
Important Note: My Little Moppet does not recommend any product without the advice of a Certified Ayurvedic Doctor or Pediatrician.
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