Development of a Standard Operating Procedure for Swarnaprashana in Nepal.

Abstract

Swarnaprashana, also known as Suvarnaprashana or Swarna Bindu Prashan , is a gold-based polyherbal Ayurvedic practice deeply rooted in traditional Ayurveda medicine, with historical references in texts like the Kashyap Samhita. There was need of the development of common guidelines for implementing the Swarnaprashana program for children in Nepal extended to Ayurveda health institutions, focusing on Ayurvedic principles and safety standards.

Ministry of Health and Population, pursuant to the authority conferred by Section 64 of the Public Health Service Act, 2075, determine the Swarna Bindu Prashan Program Implementation Guidelines, 2082.

The Ministry of Health and Population defines the program, its objectives to enhance physical and mental development and disease prevention and specifies the target group of children aged 1 years to 5 years along with contraindicated conditions. The guidelines detail the preparation process of Swarna Bindu, including material specifications, mixing ratios, and hygiene protocols, and establish dosage, administration methods, and post-consumption care. Furthermore, the document addresses monitoring, evaluation, and organizational responsibilities, including the formation of a technical working group and resource management for the program's sustainability and effective operation across various health institutions. This directive envisions the extension of this pilot program in near future. This directives in meantime reopens the quality research and innovation in terms of public health needs.