Background: Swarnaprashana, an age-old Ayurvedic practice involving the administration of medicated
gold preparations to children, is traditionally believed to enhance immunity, cognitive ability, and overall
well-being. While deeply rooted in cultural narratives, its acceptance and practice in contemporary times
are often shaped by parental beliefs, awareness, and socio-cultural contexts.
Methodology: The present study, conducted in the Koppal region, aimed to evaluate parental
understanding of Swarnaprashana and examine perceived effects on children’s health and development.
Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected through structured questionnaires, in-depth
interviews, and observational records from a stratified sample of parents across rural and semi-urban
communities.
Results & Discussion: Findings reveal a duality: while a significant proportion of parents endorsed
Swarnaprashana based on ancestral wisdom, others expressed skepticism due to limited scientific
validation and lack of standardized clinical guidelines. Reported outcomes included perceivedimprovements in immunity, attentiveness, and physical vigor, though these claims largely lacked
measurable biomedical corroboration. Notably, parental decisions were strongly influenced by local health
practitioners, community norms, and intergenerational transmission of knowledge. This study highlights
the intersection of cultural tradition and modern health perspectives, emphasizing the need to balance
evidence-based research with respect for indigenous knowledge systems. The findings call for systematic
clinical evaluations of Swarnaprashana, alongside sensitization programs to bridge gaps in parental
understanding. By contextualizing traditional practices within modern scientific discourse, this work
contributes to informed health choices for children and opens pathways for integrative pediatric care.
Keywords: Ayurveda, parental perception, traditional practices, physical vigor, pediatric care
Publication date: 01/07/2026
https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/July/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10347.pdf
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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.7.10347
