Swarnaprashana (also spelled Suvarna Prashan or Swarna Prashan) is one of the sixteen essential samskars (sacred rituals) recommended for children in Ayurvedic texts. Dating back over 5,000 years, it involves administering a specially prepared formulation of purified gold (Swarna Bhasma), honey, ghee, and potent herbs to children on auspicious days.
What is Swarnaprashana?
The word Swarna means gold, and Prashana means to consume or ingest. The classical Ayurvedic text Kashyapa Samhita — one of the oldest texts on paediatric Ayurveda — describes Swarnaprashana as a practice that:
“Promotes intellect, digestive power, strength, longevity, auspiciousness, and wealth. It protects against evil spirits and disease, and makes the child radiant.”
In modern terms, Swarnaprashana is understood to:
- Boost immunity — enhance the child’s natural defence mechanisms
- Improve cognitive function — support concentration, memory, and learning ability
- Enhance digestion — improve Agni (digestive fire) for better nutrient absorption
- Promote physical development — support healthy growth and strength
- Reduce susceptibility to infections — including recurrent colds, coughs, and allergies
Who is it Suitable For?
Swarnaprashana is recommended for children from birth to 16 years of age. It is especially beneficial for children who experience:
- Frequent infections (colds, coughs, fevers)
- Poor appetite or weak digestion
- Delayed milestones or learning difficulties
- Low concentration or memory issues
- Allergies or skin sensitivities
- General weakness or low stamina
It is completely safe when prepared and administered by a qualified Ayurvedic physician.
When is Swarnaprashana Administered?
According to classical texts, Swarnaprashana should be given on Pushya Nakshatra days — a lunar asterism that occurs roughly once a month (approximately every 27 days). On these auspicious days, the potency of herbs is considered to be at its peak.
At Srushti Ayurvedalaya, Dr. Megha K S organises Swarnaprashana ceremonies on every Pushya Nakshatra. Families bring their children for the administration, which is quick and painless — the child simply consumes the preparation orally.
What Does the Preparation Contain?
The classical formulation includes:
- Swarna Bhasma — purified, nano-particulate gold prepared through an elaborate Ayurvedic process (Shodhana and Marana)
- Vacha (Acorus calamus) — known to enhance speech and cognitive development
- Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) — a well-researched herb for memory and neuroprotection
- Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) — supports learning and concentration
- Honey and Ghee — carriers that enhance absorption and palatability
The preparation is made fresh and administered in carefully measured doses appropriate to the child’s age and weight.
How to Participate
To register your child for Swarnaprashana at Srushti Ayurvedalaya:
- Call Dr. Megha K S at +91 99806 16152 to check the next Pushya Nakshatra date
- Come to the clinic on the designated day with your child
- A brief consultation ensures the correct dosage for your child
No prior appointment is necessary on Pushya Nakshatra days, but we recommend calling ahead to confirm timings.
Srushti Ayurvedalaya is located in Bangalore. Dr. Megha K S is a qualified Ayurvedic physician with expertise in Panchakarma, Swarnaprashana, and classical Ayurvedic treatments.
