Urine formation and its various diagnostic methods w.s.r. to ayurveda

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Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Urine formation and its various diagnostic methods w.s.r. to ayurveda
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Author(s):

*Dhimdhime R.S
Professor and H.O.D, Dept. of Kriya Sharir, Govt. Ayurvedic College, Osmanabad, Maharashtra
Pawar K.B
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Kriya Sharir, Govt. Ayurvedic College, Osmanabad, Maharashtra
Kodape D.T
Associate Professor, Dept. of Kriya Sharir, Govt. Ayurvedic College, Osmanabad, Maharashtra
Dhimdhime S.R
Professor and H.O.D, Dept. of Rasashastra, A.D. Ayurvedic Medical College, Ashta, Sangli, Maharashtra
Shewale Yogesh Kashinath
PG Scholar, Dept. of Kriya Sharir, Govt. Ayurvedic College, Osmanabad, Maharashtra


Ayushdhara:

(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: Urine formation and its various diagnostic methods w.s.r. to ayurveda

Year: 2016

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0


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Summary of article contents:

1) Introduction

Ayurveda, an ancient holistic health system, emphasizes the importance of understanding diseases through the examination of bodily signs and symptoms. This approach allows for early diagnosis and treatment, as well as a comprehensive understanding of the affected dosha (bio-humor), dushya (tissues), and mala (wastes). Focusing on the diagnostic aspect, the Ayurveda system highlights the relevance of mutrapariksha (urine examination) as a critical tool for determining the state of health and underlying diseases. Classical texts by revered Ayurvedic scholars specify various methods for assessing urine characteristics, offering insights into potential health issues and guiding therapeutic interventions.

2) Urine Formation and Its Role in Diagnosis

According to Ayurveda, urine formation begins after the food undergoes the digestive process, yielding a nutrient-rich sara portion and a waste-rich kitta portion. The kitta material is further divided into a solid and a liquid part, where the liquid eventually transforms into urine. As described by Acharya Sushruta, the pakvashaya (large intestine) serves as the primary location for urine formation, which is subsequently stored in the basti (bladder). The urine exits through specific channels under the regulation of apaanavayu (a type of vital air), a process that occurs continuously. This understanding of urine formation is essential because it links various digestive and metabolic processes to the condition of the urine, which can provide diagnostic clues about diseases.

3) Tailabindupariksha: The Oil Drop Test

One of the notable diagnostic methods mentioned in Ayurveda is Tailabindupariksha, which involves observing the behavior of an oil drop placed on the surface of urine. This examination provides insights into both the prognosis of a disease and the patient's potential recovery. The way the oil spreads or sinks indicates the curability of the condition: a drop that spreads easily suggests the disease is curable, while one that sinks may indicate an incurable state. Additionally, the orientation of the spread can signify different recovery timelines—from rapid improvement to potential deterioration. This ancient method emphasizes the connection between the physical properties of urine and the overall health status of the patient.

4) Conclusion

In summary, mutrapariksha serves as a vital component of Ayurvedic diagnosis, linking the physical examination of urine to the broader concepts of health and disease. The traditional practice of analyzing urine characteristics, such as through Tailabindupariksha, exemplifies the sophistication of Ayurvedic methodologies even without modern diagnostic tools. These practices are not only foundational in understanding the body's physiological changes during illness but also beneficial for planning effective treatments. As such, the integration of ancient wisdom with contemporary health assessments offers a promising avenue for promoting holistic patient care and enhancing disease prognosis.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the significance of urine examination in Ayurveda?

Urine examination, or Mutrapariksha, is a vital diagnostic tool in Ayurveda. It helps assess the influence of Doshas, indicating health status and potential diseases, allowing for effective treatment planning.

How is urine formed according to Ayurvedic principles?

In Ayurveda, urine formation occurs in the Pakvashaya after food digestion. The kitta portion is divided into solid and liquid, with the liquid converting into Mutra, which is then expelled under the control of Apaanavaayu.

What methods are used for urine collection in Ayurveda?

Ayurveda recommends collecting urine before sunrise in a clean glass container, avoiding the first stream, and using the mid-stream for examination. This ensures accurate assessment of urine properties.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Urine formation and its various diagnostic methods w.s.r. to ayurveda”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Disease:
In Ayurveda, early diagnosis of diseases is crucial for successful treatment without much discomfort. The examination of urine can help in identifying disease conditions, which relate to different excretory substances being present in urine. This helps Vaidyas to administer effective Chikitsa [see source text or glossary: Disease].

2) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are bio-humors in Ayurveda that control physiological and pathological functions. Mutra Pariksha involves examining the urine to determine Dosha imbalance, indicated by varying colors and appearances of urine. This helps in accurate diagnosis and treatment [see source text or glossary: Dosha].

3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient holistic science focusing on treating the patient as a whole. It involves various diagnostic methods including Mutrapariksha to understand the underlying vitiated Dosha, guiding the Vaidya in providing proper Chikitsa [see source text or glossary: Ayurveda].

4) Mutra:
Mutra, or urine, plays a significant role in Ayurveda diagnosis. Through Mutrapariksha, changes in urine properties help identify vitiated Doshas and various diseases, aiding in planning effective Ayurvedic treatments [see source text or glossary: Mutra].

5) Pariksha (Pariksa):
Pariksha refers to examination or inspection in Ayurveda. Various Pariksha, such as Mutrapariksha, help diagnose the vitiation of Dosha, thereby determining the appropriate Ayurvedic treatment and prognosis [see source text or glossary: Pariksha].

6) Knowledge:
In Ayurveda, proper knowledge about Dosha-dushya involvement, Samprapti, and Sadhyasadhyatva of Vyadhi is critical for diagnosis. This includes understanding patterns formed in Tailabindupariksha for effective treatment [see source text or glossary: Knowledge].

7) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi refers to disease in Ayurveda. The examination of excretory products, including urine, is crucial for Vyadhi diagnosis. This helps in identifying vitiated Doshas and appropriate Chikitsa for the patient [see source text or glossary: Vyadhi].

8) Mala:
Mala includes the body's waste products. Proper examination of Mala, including urine, is essential in Ayurveda for understanding vitiated Dosha and planning treatment. This examination helps achieve balance in the body's doshas [see source text or glossary: Mala].

9) Mutrapariksha (Mutrapariksa, Mutra-pariksha):
Mutra-pariksha involves examining urine to determine Dosha imbalances and other disease conditions. Used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools in Ayurveda, it is pivotal for understanding the health of the patient [see source text or glossary: Mutra-pariksha].

10) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Dosha vitiation is critical in Ayurveda for disease development and progression. Changes in urine properties during Mutrapariksha help in identifying Dosha vitiation and planning treatment accordingly [see source text or glossary: Vitiation].

11) Prameha:
Prameha is a group of urinary disorders in Ayurveda, characterized by increased frequency and turbidity of urine. Diagnosis involves examining the changes in urine properties, helping to identify the type and severity of Prameha [see source text or glossary: Prameha].

12) Kitta:
Kitta is part of the digestive process in Ayurveda, which involves waste products including substances converted into Mutra (urine). Understanding the conversion process helps in assessing changes in urine during disease conditions [see source text or glossary: Kitta].

13) Basti:
Basti, or bladder, is the organ where urine is collected before expulsion. According to Sushruta, urine flows from Pakvashaya to Basti through Shookshmasiraas, with Basti examined in diagnosing diseases via Mutrapariksha [see source text or glossary: Basti].

14) Dushya (Dusya):
Dushya are bodily tissues affected by vitiated Doshas. Their role in Ayurveda includes their impact on urine properties examined via Mutrapariksha to identify disease conditions and plan appropriate treatment [see source text or glossary: Dushya].

15) Pitta:
Pitta Dosha can affect urine's color and properties, showing signs like reddish or yellowish hues. It is one of the three Doshas examined in Mutrapariksha to determine the disease condition and appropriate Ayurvedic treatment [see source text or glossary: Pitta].

16) Nadi (Nadin):
Nadi, or pulse, is a key examination in Astasthanapariksha. It is often the first diagnostic tool used before Mutrapariksha to identify Dosha imbalances and guide effective treatment plans in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Nadi].

17) Vata:
Vata Dosha affects urine properties, making it whitish and dry. Vata's vitiation can be diagnosed via changes observed in urine during Mutrapariksha, aiding in the identification and treatment of related diseases [see source text or glossary: Vata].

18) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
The study shared by Ayurvedic institutions in Maharashtra highlights the ongoing practices and relevance of traditional diagnostic methods including Mutrapariksha, showing Ayurveda's continuous applicability [see source text or glossary: Maharashtra].

19) Pakvashaya (Pakvasaya, Pakva-ashaya):
Pakvashaya, according to Sushruta, is the main organ where urine formation begins. It is crucial in understanding the excretory process in Ayurveda, linked to the examination of urine during Mutrapariksha [see source text or glossary: Pakvashaya].

20) Substance:
Various excretory substances in urine change during disease conditions. These changes can be identified through Mutrapariksha, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment planning in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Substance].

21) Snigdha:
Snigdha (unctuous) appearance of urine indicates Kapha vitiation in Ayurveda. This characteristic helps identify physiological imbalances during Mutrapariksha and guide subsequent treatment [see source text or glossary: Snigdha].

22) Akriti (Akrti):
Akriti, or built, is part of the Astasthanapariksha and helps in the overall assessment of the patient's health. It complements Mutrapariksha in diagnosing diseases and planning Ayurvedic treatment [see source text or glossary: Akriti].

23) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas are channels that conduct body fluids and waste. In Mutravaha Srotas, for instance, they help in urination. Examination of Mutra and Srotas aids in understanding pathological conditions in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Srotas].

24) Kriya:
Kriya Sharir, or functional anatomy, involves understanding the physiological processes, including those of excretion, as seen in Mutrapariksha. This aids in diagnosing diseases and planning Ayurvedic treatments [see source text or glossary: Kriya].

25) Pandu (Pamdu, Pamde):
Pandu is a condition characterized by a pale, whitish color, which can also be observed in urine. This property is used in Mutrapariksha to understand underlying Dosha imbalances and associated diseases [see source text or glossary: Pandu].

26) Dhatu:
Dhatus are body tissues nourished by the Sara portion of digested food. Their balance is essential for health, and their dysfunction can be diagnosed through changes in urine properties in Mutrapariksha [see source text or glossary: Dhatu].

27) India:
India is the cultural backdrop where Ayurveda thrives. Ayurvedic institutions in Maharashtra and other states employ traditional methods like Mutrapariksha for diagnosing and treating diseases [see source text or glossary: India].

28) Glass:
A glass container is used for collecting urine samples during Mutrapariksha in Ayurveda. This ensures clarity and proper observation of urine properties for accurate diagnosis [see source text or glossary: Glass].

29) Pulse:
Pulse examination, or Nadipariksha, is a primary diagnostic tool in Ayurveda. It precedes Mutrapariksha and helps detect Dosha imbalances, guiding appropriate treatment plans [see source text or glossary: Pulse].

30) Blood:
Changes in urine color, such as reddish due to blood, indicate Pitta vitiation or other conditions. Blood presence in urine can diagnose various diseases in Mutrapariksha [see source text or glossary: Blood].

31) Sara (Shara):
Sara is the nutritious part of digested food used for nourishing Dhatus. Understanding Sara's role is essential in Ayurveda for assessing bodily functions and excretory processes including those examined in Mutrapariksha [see source text or glossary: Sara].

32) Food:
Ingested food undergoes Sthula Pachana Prakriya and is divided into Sara and Kitta, affecting urine properties. Proper digestion is critical for maintaining balance in body functions assessed during Mutrapariksha [see source text or glossary: Food].

33) Human body:
The human body is assessed as a whole in Ayurveda, integrating various diagnostic methods including Mutrapariksha to identify and treat diseases. This holistic approach ensures comprehensive care [see source text or glossary: Human body].

34) Nadipariksha (Nadipariksa, Nadi-pariksha):
Nadipariksha, or pulse examination, is fundamental in assessing Dosha imbalances. It is often used in conjunction with Mutrapariksha to provide a holistic diagnosis and treatment plan in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Nadipariksha].

35) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasashastra involves the study of chemistry within Ayurveda, including the preparation of medicines. Proper understanding complements diagnostic methods like Mutrapariksha for effective treatment [see source text or glossary: Rasashastra].

36) Ashtavidha (Astavidha, Ashtan-vidha):
Astavidha Pariksha involves eight different diagnostic methods, including Mutrapariksha. These comprehensive examinations enable accurate diagnosis and effective Ayurvedic treatment [see source text or glossary: Astavidha].

37) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
The combination of Vata and Pitta Doshas can affect urine properties, making it appear smoky and watery. This helps diagnose disease conditions during Mutrapariksha and informs Ayurvedic treatment [see source text or glossary: Vata-pitta].

38) Phenayukta:
Phenayukta, meaning foamy, is a property of urine indicating Kapha vitiation. Such characteristics observed in Mutrapariksha provide insights into underlying Dosha imbalances and guide treatment [see source text or glossary: Phenayukta].

39) Raktavarna (Rakta-varna):
Raktavarna, or reddish urine, suggests Pitta vitiation or blood in urine. Observing this characteristic during Mutrapariksha aids in diagnosing underlying health conditions and planning treatment [see source text or glossary: Raktavarna].

40) Discussion:
The discussion section analyzes various findings, highlighting the relevance and accuracy of traditional diagnostic methods like Mutrapariksha in diagnosing and prognosing diseases according to Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Discussion].

41) Science (Scientific):
Scientific validation of traditional methods, as seen in studies and clinical applications, ensures that practices like Mutrapariksha in Ayurveda remain relevant and effective in modern healthcare [see source text or glossary: Scientific].

42) Samprapti:
Samprapti refers to the pathogenesis of a disease in Ayurveda. Understanding Samprapti helps diagnose diseases through methods like Mutrapariksha, thus guiding effective treatment plans [see source text or glossary: Samprapti].

43) Vataroga (Vata-roga):
Vataroga refers to diseases caused by Vata vitiation. In Mutrapariksha, identifying characteristics like whitish, dry urine helps diagnose Vataroga and guide appropriate treatment in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Vataroga].

44) Prakriya (Prakriye):
Prakriya refers to processes or procedures in Ayurveda. Sthula Pachana Prakriya involves digestion, resulting in Kitta and Sara portions that affect urinary properties examined during Mutrapariksha [see source text or glossary: Prakriya].

45) Amasaya (Amashaya, Ama-ashaya):
Amashaya is the stomach region between Pakvashaya and where urine formation occurs. Understanding its role in excretion helps in diagnosing and treating diseases through Mutrapariksha in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Amashaya].

46) Elephant:
The image of an elephant formed by spreading oil on urine indicates a good prognosis according to Tailabindupariksha, a traditional method used in Ayurveda to diagnose and prognose health conditions [see source text or glossary: Elephant].

47) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriya, or sensory organs, must be in a pleasant state to ensure health. Ayurvedic diagnosis includes assessing sensory functions along with Mutrapariksha for a holistic view of the patient’s health [see source text or glossary: Indriya].

48) Shastra (Sastra):
Shastra, or surgical instruments, are part of diagnoses in Ayurveda. If oil drop in Mutrapariksha takes a shape like Shastra, it indicates incurable diseases, aiding in prognosing the patient's condition [see source text or glossary: Shastra].

49) Purisha (Purisa):
Purisha refers to stool, part of the excretory process in Ayurveda. Its formation and properties, along with urine examination (Mutrapariksha), help assess Dosha balance and diagnose diseases [see source text or glossary: Purisha].

50) Sparsha (Sparsa):
Sparsha, or touch, is one of the Astasthanapariksha methods in Ayurveda. Combined with Mutrapariksha, it helps in diagnosing disease conditions by understanding Dosha imbalances through tactile examination [see source text or glossary: Sparsha].

51) Ashmari (Asmari):
Ashmari, or urinary stones, are conditions affecting Mutravaha Srotas. Changes in urine properties detected through Mutrapariksha help identify such conditions and guide Ayurvedic treatment [see source text or glossary: Ashmari].

52) Asadhya:
Asadhya refers to incurable diseases in Ayurveda. Mutrapariksha, through methods like Tailabindupariksha, helps establish the prognosis, indicating if a disease is Asadhya based on urine analysis [see source text or glossary: Asadhya].

53) Buffalo (Buffaloes):
In Tailabindupariksha, the appearance of buffalo shapes formed by oil on urine indicates incurable diseases. This traditional diagnostic method helps in assessing the severity of the condition in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Buffalo].

54) Shabda (Sabda):
Shabda, or speech, is included in Astasthanapariksha for diagnosing diseases. It complements other examinations like Mutrapariksha to provide a comprehensive health assessment in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Shabda].

55) Sadhya:
Sadhya refers to curable conditions. In Tailabindupariksha, if an oil drop spreads quickly on urine, the disease is considered Sadhya (curable), guiding effective treatment in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Sadhya].

56) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha means dry. Dryness in urine properties indicates Vata vitiation, which can be diagnosed through Mutrapariksha in Ayurveda, aiding in the understanding and treatment of underlying diseases [see source text or glossary: Ruksha].

57) Vaidya:
A Vaidya is an Ayurvedic physician who utilizes diagnostic methods like Mutrapariksha to understand Dosha vitiation, diagnose diseases, and provide appropriate Chikitsa (treatment) [see source text or glossary: Vaidya].

58) Kamala (Kama-la):
Kamala, or jaundice, affects urine color, turning it yellowish. Such changes in urine properties during Mutrapariksha help diagnose and treat Kamala effectively in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Kamala].

59) Sandra (Samdra):
Sandra part of Kitta transforms into Purisha (stool), affecting bodily functions. Understanding Sandra, part of the digestive process, is crucial for diagnosing diseases through excretory examinations like Mutrapariksha [see source text or glossary: Sandra].

60) Sthula:
Sthula Pachana Prakriya refers to the digestive process, dividing food into Sara and Kitta. This process affects urine properties, examined during Mutrapariksha for understanding health conditions in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Sthula].

61) Agneya:
Agneya, or Southeast direction, indicates a fatal prognosis if the oil drop splits in Tailabindupariksha. This method helps Ayurvedic Vaidyas diagnose and prognose disease conditions effectively [see source text or glossary: Agneya].

62) Nidana:
Nidana, or diagnosis, is critical in Ayurveda for successful treatment. Examination of excretory products like urine through Mutrapariksha aids in identifying diseases and planning effective treatment [see source text or glossary: Nidana].

63) Torana:
If the oil drop in Tailabindupariksha forms a torana (arch), the prognosis is good. Such traditional diagnostic methods help assess disease conditions and guide Ayurvedic treatment effectively [see source text or glossary: Torana].

64) Ajirna:
In Ajirna (indigestion), urine appears like Tandulodak (rice water). Observing these changes in urine during Mutrapariksha helps diagnose and treat indigestion and related conditions in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Ajirna].

65) Sangli:
Sangli is a location in Maharashtra where Ayurvedic institutions study and apply traditional diagnostic methods, like Mutrapariksha, demonstrating its ongoing relevance in modern-day practice [see source text or glossary: Sangli].

66) Khanda (Khamda):
Khanda, meaning piece, is a shape created by oil during Tailabindupariksha, indicating incurable diseases. This diagnostic method helps Ayurvedic practitioners assess the prognosis effectively [see source text or glossary: Khanda].

67) Kapha:
Kapha Dosha influences urine's appearance, making it foamy or unctuous. Identifying these changes in Mutrapariksha helps diagnose Dosha imbalances and related disease conditions in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Kapha].

68) Rakta:
Rakta, or blood, in urine indicates Pitta vitiation or other conditions, such as urinary tract infections. These changes are detected during Mutrapariksha, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment [see source text or glossary: Rakta].

69) Sarpa:
Sarpa, or snake-like shape formed by oil in Tailabindupariksha, indicates Vataroga. This traditional diagnostic method helps identify Dosha imbalances and guides treatment in Ayurveda [see source text or glossary: Sarpa].

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 93]

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