Critical Analysis of Raktavaha Srotas with Special Reference to Haematopoiesis (Blood Formation)
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Abstract
Background: The concept of Raktavaha Srotas occupies an important place in Ayurvedic physiology, being responsible for the formation, transportation, and maintenance of Rakta Dhatu. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Yakrut and Pleeha as the Moolasthana of Raktavaha Srotas, indicating their central role in Rakta metabolism. Modern science explains haematopoiesis as the process of blood cell formation occurring primarily in bone marrow, studying these concepts may help establish an interdisciplinary understanding between Ayurveda and modern physiology.
Aim: To critically analyse Raktavaha Srotas and correlate it with haematopoiesis.
Materials and Methods: This literary review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, along with modern textbooks of anatomy, physiology, and haematology.
Results: Raktavaha Srotas demonstrates conceptual similarities with the hematopoietic and circulatory systems. Yakrut and Pleeha correlate with liver and spleen functions in blood metabolism.
Conclusion: Raktavaha Srotas can be interpreted as an integrated functional unit comprising haematopoiesis, blood metabolism, and circulation.
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