Changes

In the previous chapter ([[Khuddika Garbhavakranti Sharira]]), the six factors or ''bhavas'' which are responsible for formation of ''garbha'' are mentioned along with genetic inheritance in brief. The present chapter deals with complete concepts of Ayurvedic embryology, hence the name ''mahati''; meaning big or detailed. In the beginning Lord Atreya briefs about the contents of the chapter regarding embryo in the form of its definition, its formation and various factors responsible for its sequential development in the womb, factors responsible for growth and development, factors causing morbidity in fetus, different causes for destruction and anomalies in fetus.

In the previous chapter ([[Khuddika Garbhavakranti Sharira]]), the six factors or ''bhavas'' which are responsible for formation of ''garbha'' are mentioned along with genetic inheritance in brief. The present chapter deals with complete concepts of Ayurvedic embryology, hence the name ''mahati''; meaning big or detailed. In the beginning Lord Atreya briefs about the contents of the chapter regarding embryo in the form of its definition, its formation and various factors responsible for its sequential development in the womb, factors responsible for growth and development, factors causing morbidity in fetus, different causes for destruction and anomalies in fetus.

Six factors responsible for the formation of embryo and sources of respective organs have been described in detail. The embryo is produced by five ''mahabhutas'' in association with consciousness (''chetana''). During the first month, the embryo is mucoid. Thereafter, in second month, it attains round shape. Subsequently, in third month, it develops all the sensory and motor organs, becomes stabilized and gains weight in fourth month, increases blood and muscle in fifth month, while increase in strength and complexion of fetus develops in sixth month. The fetus attains over-all maturity during the seventh month; and in eight month, due to instability of the ojas, delivery of the fetus is prone to danger.

Six factors responsible for the formation of embryo and sources of respective organs have been described in detail. The embryo is produced by five ''mahabhutas'' in association with consciousness (''chetana''). During the first month, the embryo is mucoid. Thereafter, in second month, it attains round shape. Subsequently, in third month, it develops all the sensory and motor organs, becomes stabilized and gains weight in fourth month, increases blood and muscle in fifth month, while increase in strength and complexion of fetus develops in sixth month. The fetus attains over-all maturity during the seventh month; and in eight month, due to instability of the ''ojas'', delivery of the fetus is prone to danger.

If the fetus remains in the womb after the period of parturition, which has been defined as the period between 9 to 10 months, it is considered abnormal or vaikarika prasavakala. Normalcy of six factors is responsible for the growth and development of fetus; and growing fetus obtains nourishment through the upasneha (perfusion, osmosis, active & passive transport) and upasweda (warmth). Abnormality in these factors leads to destruction of fetus or still birth.

If the fetus remains in the womb after the period of parturition, which has been defined as the period between 9 to 10 months, it is considered abnormal or ''vaikarika prasavakala''. Normalcy of six factors is responsible for the growth and development of fetus; and growing fetus obtains nourishment through the ''upasneha'' (perfusion, osmosis, active and passive transport) and ''upasweda'' (warmth). Abnormality in these factors leads to destruction of fetus or still birth.

   

   

The diet consumed by the woman and her psychological state during pregnancy also affects the fetus. Wishes of the fetus are expressed through the mother and these should be fulfilled. Suppression of acute desires causes death of the fetus whereas mild ones cause abnormalities due to vitiation of vata.  

The diet consumed by the woman and her psychological state during pregnancy also affects the fetus. Wishes of the fetus are expressed through the mother and these should be fulfilled. Suppression of acute desires causes death of the fetus whereas mild ones cause abnormalities due to vitiation of ''vata''.  

The factors responsible for genetic disorder of fetus due to abnormalities in male and female chromosomes and genes are described. By obtaining the knowledge of factors responsible for the proper growth or retardation of the fetus, one should avoid or modify those factors which come in the way of its proper development.

The factors responsible for genetic disorder of fetus due to abnormalities in male and female chromosomes and genes are described. By obtaining the knowledge of factors responsible for the proper growth or retardation of the fetus, one should avoid or modify those factors which come in the way of its proper development.