Can Neonatal Jaundice Be Treated Naturally with Ayurveda? - #15112

Thank you for sharing your concerns. I understand how difficult it can be to see your newborn in discomfort, especially when you're trying to balance traditional advice with modern care. It's completely natural to feel unsure, but you're taking the right steps by seeking more information. Neonatal jaundice is common in newborns, especially in the first week of life. It happens because the baby’s liver is still developing and may not yet be able to process bilirubin (the substance causing the yellow color) efficiently. A bilirubin level of 14 mg/dL is considered moderately high, but as your pediatrician mentioned, it’s not dangerously so, and it often resolves on its own. The main treatment is frequent breastfeeding, as this helps with the elimination of bilirubin through the baby’s stools. If your baby is sleepy, try offering small, frequent feeds to help him stay nourished and promote this process. As for your concerns about sun exposure, you’re right to be cautious, especially in winter. Direct sunlight can be helpful in some cases, but it’s not always necessary. Instead, focus on keeping your baby well-fed and hydrated with breast milk. When it comes to Ayurveda, there aren’t any safe oral treatments for jaundice in infants—your pediatrician’s advice to stick with breastfeeding is best. Regarding your delivery, Pitocin use and your O-negative blood type can sometimes contribute to jaundice, but these factors alone are unlikely to cause long-term issues. Just keep monitoring his bilirubin levels, as your pediatrician has advised. Your diet, including turmeric, can be beneficial for you, but there’s no evidence to suggest it would directly impact your baby’s jaundice through breastfeeding. You're doing a great job by seeking the right balance, and I encourage you to continue working closely with your pediatrician. Most cases of neonatal jaundice resolve within a couple of weeks, but if you’re ever concerned, don’t hesitate to reach out for further testing or support. Stay calm, and trust that your baby will improve with time and care.