Neurocognition in children

Children have specific neurodevelopmental needs in the domains of physical activity, nutrition, and cognitive training. Ayurveda provides a holistic framework for understanding the neurophysiology of cognition based on the concepts of Tridoshas, Trigunas, Shad Rasas, and Prakriti. According to Ayurveda theory, the key domains of cognition include acquisition of sensory information, processing and analysis of data, memory storage and retrieval, communication through expression, attention, and concentration. Higher cognitive abilities such as critical thinking, reasoning, problem solving, language, and decision-making involve the integrated participation of multiple domains. Neurocognitive development from the prenatal period to adolescence is shaped by a complex interplay of genetic, epigenetic, nutritional, psychosocial, and disease-related factors. There are identified single drugs and polyherbal formulations in different dosage forms supporting the neurocognitive development, collectively known as Medhya Rasayana, and many of these are evaluated for their physiological benefits through evidence-based research. This chapter deals with Ayurveda principles of pediatric neurocognition and the growing evidence base for traditional interventions to stimulate cognitive growth during this critical developmental window. An integrative approach combining ancient wisdom and modern medicine can pave the way for evidence-based cognitive enhancement modalities.