Abstract

SIRAVYADHA – AN AYURVEDIC VIEW /PERSPECTIVE OF PHLEBOTOMY

Dr. Niveditha S.* B.A.M.S., Dr. Rajneesh V. Giri M. S. (Ayu), Phd

Abstract

Shodhana and Shamana Chikitsa are two fundamental principles of Ayurvedic medicine. Rakta is considered the vital force of the body, and its careful preservation is essential, as blood is synonymous with life itself. Pitta Dosha and Rakta Dhatu share an Ashraya-Ashrayi bhava with each other. Disorders related to Rakta (Rakta Pradoshaja Vikara) are primarily caused by Pitta Dosha imbalance. Among the various Shodhana therapies, Raktamokshana is regarded as the most effective treatment for diseases caused by Pitta and Rakta vitiation. Acharya Sushruta has regarded Siravyadha as one of the most significant therapeutic procedures in Shalya-tantra, comparable to Basti Karma in Kaya-chikitsa. Siravyadha involves the surgical technique of puncturing a vein (phlebotomy) to perform Raktamokshana (bloodletting) for therapeutic purposes, and it is widely utilized in managing various diseases associated with vitiated Rakta dosha. In conditions where vitiated Rakta Dosha is predominant, Siravyadha aids in the removal of vitiation of Rakta. Acharya Sushruta emphasizes that Siravyadha plays a crucial role in eliminating vitiated dosha, making it an effective treatment for managing vitiated rakta, particularly beneficial in cases where dosha vitiation occurs throughout the body (Sarvadehika dushti). Siravyadha is instrumental in effectievely treating Shakhagata Roga especially those diseases related to Pitta and Rakta imbalance. Due to its effectiveness, Siravyadha is referred to as "Ardhachikitsa" or half of the treatment in Ayurveda, and Acharya Sushruta has provided a thorough explanation of the procedure, underscoring its significance in managing Pitta and Rakta Dushti disorders.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Raktamokshana, Rakta dhatu, Shalya tantra, Siravyadha, Phlebotomy.