Abstract

IMPORTANCE OF PARASURGICAL PROCEDURES IN AYURVEDA

Rutuja Ravindra Chavan* and Madhavi S. Banarase

Abstract

Shalya tantra is a branch of a Ayurveda which deals with the surgical and parasurgical procedures explained in ancient Indian literatures by various Acharaya’s like Maharashi Sushruta, Charaka, Vagbhata etc. Acharya Sushruta described various surgical and parasurgical procedures in their texts. Parasurgical procedures (Anushashastra Karma) is different from all other major AsthavidhaShastrakarmas and minor surgical procedures. Parasurgical procedure are the procedures in which non-surgical items are used where surgical items like knife, etc are difficult to use. Acharya Sushruta scientifically classified those procedures in scientific manner and explained its uses. Parasurgical procedure includes ksharakrma, Ksharsutra, Agnikarma, Raktamokshana, Jalaukavacharana, Viddha karma etc. Acharya Sushruta explained 15 different types of Anushastras. Those are Twaksara (Bamboo Bark), Spatika, Kancha (glass), Kuruvind, Jalauka (Leeches), Agni(flame), Kshara(Alkali), Nakha (Nails), Goji, Shefalika Shaka-patera, Kareera, Bala(Hair), Anguli(finger). Itisindicatedinchildrens, sensitive or fearful persons and in absence of surgical instruments. These Karmas are minimally invasive. Theparasurgical procedures are the marvels of Shalya practice and they can be carried out with minimal discomfort to the patients. It is gaining popularity in modern times because of their effectiveness in treating chronic diseases.

Keywords: Parasurgical Procedure, ksharakrma, Ksharsutra, Agnikarma, Raktamokshana, Jalaukavacharana, Viddha karma.