A REVIEW ON RAKTAVAHA SROTAS AND ITS CLINICAL DISORDERS IN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Srotas are channels for the transport of body substances, specifically those in the process of metabolic conversion. Srotas have been seen by some researchers as being micro-vascular channels for the substance exchange. This exchange between interstitial fluid and intravascular elements is done through Ayana, which are specialized pores. The number of Srotas depends on various Ayurvedic scholars and each Srotas contains an individual Mulasthana. Raktavaha Srotas is the vessel through which Rakta passes. Its Mulasthana, consists of the Yakrit, Pleeha and Raktavahini Dhamani. Unhealthy food habits like taking Vidahi articles, Snigdha and Ushna Drava and external conditions like sunlight exposure and wind can cause Dusti of the Raktavaha Srotas. Raktavaha Srotas are therefore essential in the formation as well as flow of blood. The diseases that occur due to its failure are Kustha, Visarpa, Pidika, Kamala, Asrigdara and Arbuda, etc. The therapeutic interventions for managing Dusti of the Raktavaha Srotas are Raktamokshana, Virechana and Upavasa.