Abstract

Breastfeeding is an important component of early-life nutrition and provides energy, nutrients, immunological protection and developmental support to the infant. Perceived or actual low milk production may interfere with successful breastfeeding and can arise from multiple maternal, infant and breastfeeding-related factors. Contemporary lactation physiology identifies prolactin as a major hormone involved in milk synthesis and oxytocin as the principal mediator of milk ejection, while effective and regular removal of milk remains a key determinant of ongoing production [1–6]. In Ayurveda, Stanya is described in relation to Rasa Dhatu, and inadequate lactation is discussed under the concept of Stanya Kshaya. Among the classical therapeutic groups, Stanya Janana Mahakashaya of Charaka Samhita comprises ten drugs traditionally indicated for promotion of breast milk [7,8]. This narrative review examines the classical basis of Stanya and Stanya Kshaya, the ten constituents of Stanya Janana Mahakashaya, their Rasa Panchaka and the possible relationship between Ayurvedic concepts and contemporary lactation physiology. The review also considers reported phytochemical and nutritional characteristics of the constituent drugs. Most members of the group are described as Madhura-dominant and nourishing, with properties that may be interpreted within Ayurveda as supportive of Rasa Dhatu Poshana and Stanya Utpatti. However, direct clinical evidence for the galactagogue efficacy of the complete Mahakashaya or of individual constituents remains limited. Accordingly, the classical rationale should be viewed as a basis for further pharmacological, phytochemical and clinical investigation rather than as proof of clinical efficacy.