Rasa Dhatu & Stanya

In Ayurveda, it is known that the first bodily tissue to be formed after digestion of food is rasa dhatu (plasma). Rasa has a deep connection to stanya (breastmilk). 

The quality of rasa dhatu will directly impact the quality of a mother's stanya. 

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On the third day postpartum, the mother's hormones will drop, and her milk will come. 

If mother is eating dry and raw foods during these first three days postpartum, rasa will carry excess vata (a doshic energy denoted by air and space), leading to a disruption to the coming of her milk, as well as difficulties in milk production and supply throughout her breastfeeding journey. 

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Therefore, for the first three days postpartum, mother is given only warm, liquidy foods and drink. The qualities of such food and drink allow for the pacifying of excess vata dosha, as well as the deep nourishment of rasa dhatu. 

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Building and nourishing rasa dhatu in these first three days postpartum allows for an easeful flow and supply of stanya throughout the mother's breastfeeding journey. 

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For mothers who birthed via caesarian, this disruption to the natural birthing process can lead to breastfeeding difficulties. Offering fennel seeds/ powder and fenugreek consistently within the mother's food and drink can assist in supporting breastmilk production and quality in these circumstances.