ANESTHESIA AND PAIN MANAGEMENT IN AYURVEDA

Abstract

Introduction- Anesthesia and pain management are critical components of modern and traditional medical practices. The ancient Indian medical system known as Ayurveda provides a distinctive viewpoint on how pain is perceived and how to manage it holistically.  In Ayurveda, the imbalance of the Doshas Vata, Pitta, and Kapha with a primary emphasis on Vata is how the idea of pain (Shoola) is interpreted.  Many herbo-mineral formulations, Snehana (oleation), Swedana (sudation), and Marma Chikitsa (vital point therapy) are described in traditional Ayurvedic scriptures as ways to relieve pain.  Analgesic effects are also shown by techniques like Raktamokshana (bloodletting), Ksharakarma (alkaline cauterization), and Agnikarma (therapeutic cauterization). Material and methods- The present study aims to explore and analyze the principles and practices of anesthesia (Sangyaharana) and pain management (Vedana Shamana) as described in Ayurvedic literature. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers various approaches for managing pain and inducing unconsciousness through herbal preparations, therapeutic procedures, and surgical techniques. Result- Combining Ayurvedic methods with traditional systems provides a safer, more individualized, and more sustainable approach in the current healthcare environment, where chronic pain and surgical problems are common. To create true integrated pain management, future developments should concentrate on the standardization, clinical trials, and scientific validation of Ayurvedic analgesic and anesthetic treatments. Discussion- Additionally, several herbal medications, such Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Tagara (Valeriana wallichii), and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), have calming and analgesic qualities that make them useful for chronic or perioperative pain.  Ayurvedic pain therapy is a viable adjunct to contemporary anesthetic and pain management procedures because it places an emphasis on non-invasive techniques, psychosomatic integration, and Tridosha balance.  Its application in modern medical systems can be improved with more clinical validation and integrative research.