REEVALUATING MARMA IN THE CONTEXT OF CONTEMPORARY ANATOMICAL AND SURGICAL PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

The Atharva Veda is where the word "Marma" first appears. Anatomically speaking, a Marma is a location where five structures converge including Asthi, Sandhi, Snayu, Sira and Mamsa. According to Ayurvedic literature, Marmas are considered essential spots or important bodily parts whose damage can cause serious malfunction, deformity, or death. They are thought to make up half of Ayurvedic surgical knowledge. Marmas are categorized in a methodical manner according to their dimensions, damage effects and anatomical makeup. Damage to these critical locations can mean life threatening injury, unintentional traumas and even death during surgeries. The Samhitas stress the need to safeguard these locations and warn against harming them. Marma points are characterizes as crucial sites where trauma can cause symptoms that range from minor discomfort to grave consequences. Since Marmas are thought to be the seats of Prana, therefore Marma Chikitsa helps to balances Tridosha. This article reviewed concept of Marma in the context of contemporary anatomical and surgical perspectives.