A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY OF DHAMANI SHARIR WITH ITS STRUCTURAL CORRELATION TO THE MODERN ARTERIAL SYSTEM

Abstract

Background: The concept of Dhamani Sharir holds significant importance in Ayurvedic anatomy (Sharir Rachana), referring to pulsating channels that distribute Rakta (blood) and vital nutrients throughout the body. Although described extensively in classical texts like the Charaka Saṃhitā, Sushruta Saṃhitā, and Ashtanga Sangraha, its anatomical correlation with the modern arterial system remains underexplored in contemporary scholarship. Aim:
To descriptively study Dhamani Sharir and establish its structural and functional correlation with the modern arterial system. Objectives: To explore classical Ayurvedic literature on Dhamani Sharir. To analyze the anatomical and physiological features of Dhamanis. To compare Dhamani Sharir with the modern arterial system. To identify structural and functional similarities between Dhamanis and arteries. To highlight the clinical relevance of Dhamani knowledge in contemporary practice. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive literary study based on classical references from Charaka Saṃhitā, Sushruta Saṃhitā, Ashtanga Hridaya, and commentaries like Dalhana and Arunadatta. Comparative analysis was conducted with modern anatomical literature, particularly focusing on arterial classification, origin, distribution, and physiological roles. Diagrammatic representations and tabular comparisons were employed for conceptual clarity. Results: The study revealed that Dhamani—originating from the heart—are pulsatile vessels that carry Rakta and Prana throughout the body. The classification into Urdhwagami, Tiryakgami, and Adhogami Dhamanis finds structural and functional similarity with ascending aorta and its branches, systemic arteries, and descending aorta, respectively. The number of Dhamanis described (24 in Sushruta, 10 in Charaka) appears to represent major arterial trunks rather than individual vessels. The correlation supports a physiological and anatomical resemblance to modern arteries in terms of directionality, pulsatility, and distribution. Conclusion: The Dhamani Sharir described in Ayurvedic literature, though conceptual in its presentation, shares notable structural and functional parallels with the modern arterial system. Bridging traditional and modern anatomical knowledge may contribute to a more integrative understanding of circulatory physiology in Ayurvedic education and practice.