A LITERARY REVIEW ON RAKTAPITTA NIDAN PANCHAK

Abstract

Acharya Charaka has described Raktapitta as a Mahagada—an acute and dreadful disease—with greater severity and a rapid course of action, comparable to fire. The name itself suggests that Raktapitta is caused by the simultaneous vitiation of two bodily elements, Rakta and Pitta, due to their Ashraya-Ashrayee relationship. The main clinical feature observed is the spontaneous outflow of Rakta Dhatu from the body through any opening, without any evident external cause such as injury. The Bruhatrayi has elaborated on the Nidana Panchaka and Chikitsa of Raktapitta in detail. There is considerable similarity in the Nidana, Rupa, and the Doshas involved, with only minor differences that require careful study for accurate diagnosis. This can be achieved through deep knowledge of Ayurvedic diagnostic tools and critical evaluation of the Nidana Panchaka. Proper classification, differential diagnosis, and understanding of the disease help in enhancing the treatment modalities in Ayurvedic management.