Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF MUTRAUTPATTI: UNDERSTANDING URINE FORMATION THROUGH AYURVEDIC PHYSIOLOGY

Shaista Malik*

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Abstract

Background: In Ayurveda, the physiological process of urine formation, termed Mutrautpatti, is an intricate mechanism involving the functional interplay of Apana Vata, Mutravaha Srotas, Rasa Dhatu, Meda Dhatu, and Agni. Classical texts like Charaka Samhitā, Suśruta Samhitā, and Ashtanga Hrdaya offer comprehensive insights into the origin, transformation, and expulsion of Mutra (Urine). This review aims to decode the Ayurvedic understanding of urine formation and correlate it with modern renal physiology. Aim: To explore and analyze the concept of Mutrautpatti (Urine formation) as described in classical Ayurvedic texts and correlate it with modern renal physiology. Objectives: To review classical references related to Mutrautpatti from Ayurvedic literature. To understand the role of Mutravaha Srotas, Apana Vata, and Dhatu Parinama in urine formation. To compare the Ayurvedic concept of urine formation with modern anatomical and physiological mechanisms. To highlight the clinical relevance of Ayurvedic understanding in urinary disorders. To provide an integrative perspective on urine physiology for educational and clinical application. Materials and Methods: This conceptual review is based on a thorough literary analysis of classical Ayurvedic texts (Brhattrayī, Laghutrayī, and relevant commentaries) alongside current modern physiology literature. Sources were selected from published research articles, textbooks, and peer-reviewed journals to draw parallels and contrasts between traditional and modern views on urine formation. Results: The review reveals that Mutrautpatti is described as the by-product of Rasa and Meda Dhatu metabolism, with Apana Vata playing a regulatory role in the collection and expulsion of Mutra. The Mutravaha Srotas originating from the Basti and Medovaha Dhamanis correspond to the anatomical and functional aspects of kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The concept of Srotodushti also explains various urinary disorders. Discussion: The Ayurvedic view provides a functional understanding of urine formation through doshic, srotasic, and dhatu-related pathways rather than purely anatomical structures. The roles of Agni, Srotas, and Vata Dosha particularly Apana Vata, in excretory regulation offer a holistic perspective that is both preventive and therapeutic in nature. Conclusion: The Ayurvedic concept of Mutrautpatti integrates multiple physiological domains, offering a systemic and functional perspective on urine formation. Its clinical applications in understanding disorders like Mutrakrichchhra, Mutraghata, and Prameha highlight its relevance in current renal health paradigms.

Keywords: Mutrautpatti, Mutravaha Srotas, Apana Vata, Agni, Dhatu Parinama, Urine Formation.