CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING OF SROTAS SHARIR: A REVIEW OF CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC TEXTS AND MODERN PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

             According to Ayurveda, Ayu is the harmonious combination of Sharira, Mana, Atma and Indriya. Good health is maintained when these four components are in balance. Srotas are the channels or internal transport system of the body through which Dosha, Dhatu, Mala and Agni move and perform their functions. Acharyas described the human body as being made up of innumerable Srotas. Srotas are the channel or structure through which Sravanam karma i.e. flowing, moving, oozing and permeation of different constituents and nutrients of body takes place. There are a many number and types of Srotas mention by different Acharyas. Acharya Charaka had explained Srotas as medicinal view while Acharya Sushrut had explained Srotas according to surgical aspect. These channels help in the nourishment, regulation and continuous replenishment of body tissues and waste products. Among these some Srotas are micro and some are macro in structure and they adopt the same colour of particular Dhathus of the body to which they belong. According to Ayurvedic classics, the proper functioning and integrity of Srotas are essential for maintaining health, while any blockage or disturbance in these channels can lead to disease. Therefore the present article is an attempt to study the fundamental facts of Srotas.