Significance of Shashtika Shali as a Weaning Food in Bala

Abstract

In the world, every infant and child has the right to good nutrition according to the “convention on the rights of the child.” Exclusive breast feeding is recommended until the baby is 6 months. Then weaning can be adopted for attaining the nutritional requirement in the baby. Ayurveda also suggests Stanyapanayana from the 6th month onwards. As per WHO, Undernutrition is estimated to be associated with 2.7 million child deaths annually or 45% of all child deaths. The first 2 years of child’s life are particularly important, as optimal nutrition during this period lowers morbidity and mortality. Shashtika Shali is a variety of rice well known for its medicinal properties. It is harvested in 60 days. Shashtika means the number 60 and the word Shali means rice. Many Ayurveda Acharyas including Kashyapa has mentioned about Shashtika Shali. Hence an attempt will be made to study significance of Shashtika Shali as a weaning food in Bala.