APPLICATION OF DIFFERENT PARAMETERS FOR SELECTING NORMAL AND ABNORMAL SKIN CHARACTERISTICS IN DETERMINATION OF PRAKRITI IN INFANTS

Abstract

Prakriti (Basic physical constitution) of an individual is decided at the time of conception and subsequently during intra-uterine life, as a result of overall effect of dominant Dosha of Shukra (Sperm), Shonit (Ovum), Ahara (diet) and Vihara (regimen) of Garbhini (pregnant women), Kaalgarbhashaya (in-utero duration and condition of uterus) and Mahabhautic components. Assessment of Prakriti and Vikriti in children is essential and enables the pediatrician to evaluate metabolic imprinting, individual physiology and susceptibility to specific disease, its diagnosis, prevention, treatment as well as the prognosis after illness. There are many subjective criteria to determine the Prakriti in adults, but as far as infants are concerned, no detail description is available in Ayurvedic classics. Individual Prakriti can be determined as per the characteristics specified in Brihattrayi and Laghutrayi, which include the examination of skin, hair, nails, eyes, palm, sole and other physical and psychological features, and may be used in children for Prakriti determination. However, it can be better understood and differentiated each other by considering various methods and modern technology. Out of various characteristics of body parts, skin characteristics such as texture (roughness or smoothness, elasticity and thickness), color and temperature of skin significantly contribute in Prakriti determination. Use of objective parameters such as RGB and HSV method, Fitzpatrick Scale method and derma spectrometer for the skin color differentiation; skin-pH, stratum corneum hydration, TEWL, sebum content, cutometer and ultrasonography for skin texture as well as thermometer, thermister via pulse oxymeter for skin temperature may be very useful tools to differentiate individual Prakriti under controlled conditions. The aim of this conceptual study was to explore importance of various methodologies for differentiating Prakritaskin characteristics from the Vaikrita skin characteristics more precisely and scientifically in infants.