REVIEW OF ASTHI KSHAYA IN RELATION TO ASTHI DHATU, VATA DOSHA AND BONE HEALTH
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/prl.ijayush.v15i06%20(June).2124Keywords:
Asthi Kshaya, Asthi Dhatu, Vata Dosha, Bone Health, Osteoporosis, Bone Mineral DensityAbstract
Background: Asthi Kshaya is an important pathological condition described in Ayurveda, mainly related to depletion of Asthi Dhatu and aggravation of Vata Dosha. In classical view, Asthi Dhatu provides structural support, strength, stability and protection to the body. When Asthi Dhatu becomes depleted due to improper nutrition, disturbed Agni, excessive Vata Vardhaka Ahara Vihara, aging, excessive exercise, trauma or chronic disease, symptoms like bone pain, joint pain, weakness of teeth, hair and nails, dryness, cracking sensation and reduced body strength may appear. In modern view, similar conditions may be correlated with reduced bone mineral density, osteopenia, osteoporosis and poor skeletal health Material and Methods: This review was prepared by studying classical Ayurvedic concepts related to Asthi Dhatu, Dhatu Kshaya, Vata Dosha, Dhatvagni, Srotas and Samprapti. Modern literature related to bone remodelling, osteoporosis, osteopenia, bone mineral density, calcium, vitamin D and hormonal influence was also reviewed. The collected material was analyzed conceptually and presented in a structured review format. Discussion: The relation between Asthi Dhatu and Vata Dosha is very important because Vata is mainly located in Asthi. Due to Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava, aggravation of Vata may disturb Asthi Dhatu, leading to structural weakness, pain and degeneration. Conclusion: Asthi Kshaya can be understood as a condition of reduced bone strength and impaired skeletal nourishment. Early correction of diet, lifestyle, Agni, Vata Dosha and bone-supportive measures may help in maintaining better bone health.
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