AARTAVA'S FORMATION FROM RASADHATU AND THE PHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF UPDHATU

Abstract

Based on research and astute observations, Ayurveda is a science of healing. Ayurveda places emphasis on treating patients' illnesses and preserving the health of a normal human being. Any science's ability to succeed rests on its core ideas. As a result of evolution, humans have become a highly specialized species.For the existence of body, two elementary factors are there, one that form structural configuration and second which control physiological aspects. Ayurveda has explained the physiological functions of human body under three elements viz. Dosha, Dhatu and Mala. Updhatus are important physiological units and are derived from Dhatus and resemble Dhatus in terms of structure, function and nature. Updhatus are sub tissues or secondary tissues in the body which serve as important components and have certain fixed functions to render. Dhatus are closely associated with the Updhatus. Updhatus are derived from the first four Dhatus. Updhatus are finest product of Dhatu metabolism. Dhatavagni plays major role in metabolism of Dhatus and Updhatus. Updhatu is subsidiary tissue arises from Dhatus. They are important physiological units and engaged to design the structural composition of the body. Dhatu form the basic structure of the body, they are not able to execute the functions of body without the support of Upadhatus. Upadhatu act as a bridge between these fundamental entities. Upadhatus are also involved in emergence of diseases and the knowledge is necessary to understand the pathological conditions. Stanya (breast milk) and aartava (menstrual flow) being the Updhatus of Rasa Dhatu; their quality, quantity excellence depends on metabolic and functional status of Rasa Dhatu.