Abstract

A CRITICAL ASSESSMENT OF RAKTAMOKSHAN AS ELEMENTARY METHOD OF SHODHAN IN PANCHAKARMA THERAPY

Dr. Bhangare Archana Nivrutti*, Dr. Lahange Sandeep Madhukar, Dr. Vikash Bhatnagar, Shailja Bhatnagar and Dr. Sumit Nathani

Abstract

Panchakarma is very effective process of Shodhan karma in Ayurveda. There are different types of Shodhan therapies has been described in Samhita like Vamana, Virechana, Raktamokshana etc. out of which Raktamokshana is considered as best therapy for Pitta and Rakta Pradoshaj vyadhi. Many Acharya consider Rakta Dusti as one of the prime causes of Pittaj and Raktaj Vyadhi. Rakta along with tvak usually become the leading Dooshya in most of the skin diseases. So Raktamokshana by different modalities is much more effective in resolving pathogenesis in these diseases. There are many historical evidences where Raktamokshana was extensively practiced. During the procedure preoperatively, indication and contraindication are analyzed. Instruments are collected depending on the wisdom of the surgeon, site, disease and availability instruments. Acharya Sushruta has encouraged modification of instruments as per necessity. Acharya Sushrut who was greatest authority of Rachana Sharir, has been explained special sites of Sira for Vyadhana according to the diseases and their Adhisthana. In classics, it has been advocated that the bloodletting should be done when atmosphere should not be too cold or too hot; because environmental stimuli can cause Heena-Mithya-Ati Srava of Rakta. During the procedure it is necessary to decide the quantity of blood to be letted out. As per classics, one Prastha has been advocated which is Uttama Shodhana. Automatic stoppage of blood after certain time is an indication of Samyak Siravyadha, associated with patient feels light and severity of illness is decreased. So due to the wide spectrum, much prevalence in society and lack of effective management of Rakta Pradoshaj Vyadhi, it is necessary to understand the concept of Raktamokshana in scientific way in the light of modern science and develop the this therapy as safe and effective treatment modalities for the management of Rakta Pradoshaj Vyadhi.

Keywords: Raktamokshana, Shodhan Karma, Adhisthana, Raktamokshan, Panchakarma.