Abstract

CONCEPTUAL REVIEW OF THE ANNAVAHA SROTAS WITH RESPECT TO ITS MOOLSTHANA

Dr. Shyam D. Khobragade*, Dr. M. Yusuf M. Shareef Sheikh and Dr. Gopal B. Sharma

Abstract

Introduction: Srotas are the various channels, present throughout the body. These are structural and functional unit of the body through which substantial, flow from one part to other occur. Each srotas is attached to a specific anatomical structure called Moolasthana. Srotomoola is the most vital part of the Srotas just like the root of the tree. The normal functioning of the particular group of channels depends upon its Moolasthana. In ayurved classics different acharyas have stated diverse description about Srotomoola and, as to which particular organ should be considered as the Srotomoola for any particular srotas. The Srotas or channels which carry ‘Anna’ are called Annavaha Srotas. A slight difference in the description of Moolasthana is observed in the samhitas. Material and Methodology: The above study is a conceptual study which reviews the literature of Srotas with special emphasis on Annavaha Srotas in Ayurveda and a possible modern correlation. Result: Determination of the Annavaha srotas and its moolasthana anatomically and physiologically when done reveals that, Annavaha Srotas can be considered as upper part of GIT from mouth to small intestine where digestion and absorption occurs. The Amashaya is Moola Sthan of Annavaha Srotas which looks like distended on Vama Parshva when it is filled with food. It is also site for storage of food and its primary function is digestion so Amashaya can be considered as stomach. Conclusion: The assessment of Moolasthan in the preview of anatomical angle, controlling inputs of the functions of the Srotas and the physiological angles together contribute in determining the Annavaha Srotas with respect to its Moolasthana.

Keywords: Amashaya, Annavaha Srotas, Moolasthana, Srotas, Vamparshva.