A Review Study on Ashta Ksheera their Nutritional and Therapeutic Values in Children

Abstract

Introduction: Milk is a natural food source for mammals. Animals, including human,  produce milk to feed their young until they are ready for solid food. Ayurveda  identified eight different sources of animal milk under the name of Ashta Ksheera, of  which human milk (Nari Dugdha) is also one; the other seven sources of milk are  Avika (Sheep), Aja (Goat), Go (Cow), Mahishi (Buffallo), Ustra (Camel), Hasthini (Elephant), and Ashwi (Mare) milk.  Objective: To review nutritional value of Ashta Ksheera in comparison to human  milk supported with evidence-based research studies.  Methods: Literature research of Ayurveda text and relevant studies depicting  nutritional value and therapeutic value of Ashta Ksheera were searched, comprised  an electronic database of Google scholar, PubMed, Ayush research portal and  DHARA database.  Results: Data from previous studies on Ashta Ksheera were extracted and compared  its nutritional values with human milk (Nari Dugdha) and their properties described  in Ayurveda.  Discussion: Goat milk or sheep milk can be given to children allergic to cow milk.  Cow milk acts as Rasayana (rejuvinating), Oja Vardhak (increasing immunity), it is  best among the Jivaniya Padarthas (food enhancing life). Aja Dugha (Goat milk) is  similar to Go dugdha (Cow milk) and can be use in Rajayakshma (emaciation like  condition).