Abstract

CONCEPTRUAL STUDY OF SROTAS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO RAKTAVAHA SROTAS

Dr. Anu Bala*, Dr. Upender Nath Sharma, Dr. Ram Mohan Singh Kushwah,

Abstract

In Ayurveda, the body‘s vital components—Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala—are transported through the Srotas, which function as the body‘s internal channels. These channels are responsible for circulating the Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala, ensuring proper physiological processes. Each Srotas is connected to a specific anatomical structure known as the Moola (Root), and the functioning of the Srotas depends on the health of this root structure. Srotas are described as pathways that carry nutrients and waste throughout the body. The primary organs associated with these channels are Sira and Dhamani, two types of channels mentioned by Acharya Charaka. Some Srotas are subtle (Sukshma), while others are more substantial (Sthula), often taking on the color of the Dhatu they transport. For example, the Raktavaha Srotas, which carry Rakta (blood), are linked to the Yakrit (liver) and Pleeha (spleen) as their Moola Sthana, and these organs are involved in the haemopoietic system. Acharya Charaka suggests therapies like Virechana (purgation), Langhan (fasting), and Raktasravana (bloodletting) for treating blood-related disorders, such as Raktapitta. Acharya Sushruta further explains that damage to the Moola Sthana of the Raktavaha Srotas can cause symptoms such as Shayavangata (dark discoloration), Jwara (fever), Daha (burning), Panduta (pallor), Shonitagaman (excessive bleeding), and Raktanetrata (bloodshot eyes). Understanding the anatomy and function of Srotas is crucial for both Ayurvedic and modern medicine in maintaining health and diagnosing ailments.

Keywords: Srotas, Raktavaha Srotas, Rakta, Yakrit, Pleeha.