Abstract

UNDERSTANDING TARUNASTHI WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN THE LIGHT OF AYURVEDA

*Vd. Anagha Kothadia and Prof. Geeta D. Parulkar

Abstract

Articular cartilage of any joint plays in important role in joint mobility and overall quality of life. Healthy articular cartilage is indispensable for good joint function. The unique and complex structure of articular cartilage makes treatment and repair or restoration of the defects challenging for patient, the surgeon, and the physical therapist due to its avascular nature.[1] The preservation of articular cartilage is highly dependent on maintaining its organized architecture. The concept of Articular Cartilage is not clearly stated in age old samhitas. But the similar structure of Tarunasthi is explained grossly in Sharir Sthan of many Samhitas. Modern medical science has given every details of Articular Cartilage structure and functions. With the help of Modern Medical Science, Ayurvedic Principles and different Modern technologies, one can find and prove number of the potential plant drugs effective in various pathophysiological changes in the Articular Cartilage.

Keywords: Tarunasthi, Articular Cartilage, Increase and Decrease in Chondrocyte Number, Cartilage fibrillation, Chondrocyte Hypertrophy, Chondroprotective Ayurvedic Treatment, Articular Cartilage Inflammation.