Physio-Anatomical Study of Anukta Srotas: Focus on Ashruvaha Srotas

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Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: A Physio-Anatomical Study on Anukta Srotas with special reference of Ashruvaha Srotas
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):

Sourav Sharma
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Rachana Sharir, Abhilashi Ayurvedic College and Research Institute, Abhilashi University Mandi (H.P).
Maneela Sharma
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Rachana Sharira, Smt.Urmila devi Ayurvedic College of Medical Sciences & Hospital.


Ayushdhara:

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

Full text available for: A Physio-Anatomical Study on Anukta Srotas with special reference of Ashruvaha Srotas

Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10iSuppl4.1325

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


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study titled "A Physio-Anatomical Study on Anukta Srotas with Special Reference of Ashruvaha Srotas" explores the concept of Srotas in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly focusing on Anukta Srotas—those not explicitly listed in traditional texts—and their physiological significance. According to Ayurveda, Srotas are intricate channels that facilitate the transport and circulation of doshas (bodily humors) and dhatus (tissues) throughout the body. This research aims to clarify these pathways and their functions within the human body while emphasizing the importance of Ashruvaha Srotas, the channels associated with tear production and flow.

Understanding Ashruvaha Srotas

The term Ashruvaha Srotas refers to the channels that carry Ashru or tears, particularly within the context of the eyes. The study highlights that proper functioning of these channels is crucial for eye health, contributing to the nourishment and protection of the eye's surface. Ashruvaha Srotas consist of various components that need to remain unobstructed for efficient tear production and drainage. The presence of conditions like Atipravrutti (excessive tear flow) and Apravrutti (insufficient tear flow) illustrates how the balance within these srotas can impact eye health. Identifying vitiation in these channels can help in managing related conditions, with practical applications in Ayurvedic treatment approaches to address eye disorders.

The Concept of Anukta Srotas

Anukta Srotas, which translates to “unmentioned channels,” are those pathways not cataloged among the thirteen classical Srotas identified by ancient Ayurvedic texts. This research underscores the complexity and the potentially limitless number of such channels that exist in the body, indicating the need for a comprehensive understanding of their roles in health and disease. Efforts to study Anukta Srotas involve methodologies such as observational studies and literature reviews to gather insights on their anatomical and functional relevance. Recognizing these channels can enhance clinical practices and treatment protocols, making it critical to include them in Ayurvedic education and medical practices.

Conclusion

The findings of this study illuminate the intricate designs and functions of Srotas in Ayurveda, particularly the significance of Ashruvaha Srotas and Anukta Srotas. Understanding these channels opens avenues for better diagnosis and treatment of various conditions linked to the flow of doshas and the health of bodily tissues. As Ayurveda continues to evolve, the investigation of lesser-known concepts like Anukta Srotas can enrich clinical practices and foster a more profound understanding of holistic health, affirming the importance of considering all aspects of bodily functions in disease management and therapeutic strategies.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What are the main focuses of the study on Anukta Srotas?

The study aims to evaluate and understand the physio-anatomical significance of Anukta Srotas, specifically referencing Ashruvaha Srotas, to improve awareness and treatment for associated diseases.

How are Srotas defined in Ayurvedic literature?

Srotas are defined as hollow channels that circulate fluids, transporting nutrients and waste throughout the body. They are integral to maintaining the body’s physiological functions and ensuring proper tissue nourishment.

What is Ashruvaha Srotas and its significance in the study?

Ashruvaha Srotas refers to the channels that carry tears in the eyes. This study emphasizes understanding the physiological role and potential pathologies associated with these Srotas, as they play a crucial role in eye health.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Physio-Anatomical Study of Anukta Srotas: Focus on Ashruvaha Srotas”. 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) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas refers to the micro and macro channels in the body as per Ayurvedic literature. These pathways transport various materials throughout the body. Types of Srotas include Ashruvaha Srotas, which are responsible for the flow of tears (ashru) in the eyes.

2) Dhatu:
Dhatu are the fundamental tissues of the body that undergo transformation and nourishment through Srotas. They include Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra, and are critical for the body's structural and functional integrity.

3) Ashru (Asru):
Ashru refers to tears in Ayurvedic terminology. Ashruvaha Srotas are the channels in the eyes that manage the flow of tears. This term is derived from the Sanskrit words 'Ash' and 'Ruk' and has significant relevance in the physiology of the eyes.

4) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi is a city frequently mentioned in the context of ancient Ayurvedic texts and scholars. Many classical Ayurvedic literature like 'Sushruta Samhita' is associated with this city, which is renowned for its contributions to traditional research and education.

5) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma refers to the authors Sourav Sharma and Maneela Sharma, who are contributors to the study on Anukta Srotas, with specific focus on Ashruvaha Srotas, underscoring their roles and affiliations with Ayurvedic educational institutions.

6) Samhita:
Samhita refers to the classical compendiums of ancient Ayurvedic knowledge. Texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita provide foundational details on topics like Srotas and Dhatus, pivotal for understanding various medical and physiological concepts in Ayurveda.

7) Dhamani:
Dhamani refers to channels or vessels in the body in Ayurvedic terminology. These are often compared to arteries and veins and are crucial for the flow of Rasa (nutrient fluid) and other essential elements, playing a significant role in Srotas.

8) Mahabhuta (Maha-bhuta):
Mahabhuta are the five great elements constituting the universe in Ayurveda: Akasha (ether), Vayu (air), Teja (fire), Jala (water), and Prithvi (earth). They form the basis for all physical and physiological structures, including the Srotas in the body.

9) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to the symptoms or characteristics associated with the vitiation or proper functioning of Srotas. Identifying these signs is critical for diagnosis and treatment; for instance, symptoms of Srotas like Ashruvaha Srotas include tear abnormalities.

10) Vaidya:
Vaidya refers to an Ayurvedic physician or practitioner who uses knowledge of Srotas, Dhatus, and other concepts from classical texts like Charaka and Sushruta Samhita for diagnosis, treatment, and maintaining the health of individuals.

11) Sanga (Samga, Shanga, Shamga):
Sanga refers to the obstruction or blockage in the Srotas, such as the Ashruvaha Srotas. This can lead to conditions like Apravritti (insufficient flow) or epiphora (excessive tear flow), impacting overall bodily functions and requiring appropriate Ayurvedic intervention.

12) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa is the primary nutrient fluid or essence derived from digested food. It circulates through the Srotas to become other Dhatus like Rakta (blood). Rasa is essential for nourishing tissues and maintaining bodily functions, highlighting the interconnected nature of Srotas.

13) Granthi (Gramthi):
Granthi refers to a knot or lump, often indicating a pathological condition within the Srotas, such as the formation of Arbuda (tumor) in Ashruvaha Srotas. Identifying and treating Granthi is crucial in Ayurvedic practice for maintaining the health of bodily channels.

14) Akasha (Akasa):
Akasha, or ether, is one of the Panchamahabhutas, forming the fundamental space or vacuums where Srotas operate. It denotes the non-obstructive quality that allows for the passage and movement of materials within the body's channels, ensuring proper physiological function.

15) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha are the three fundamental bio-elements or energies in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. They govern physiological and psychological processes, and their balance is vital for health. The interplay between Doshas and Srotas is critical for diagnosing diseases.

16) Hridya (Hrdya):
Hrdya, often referred to as the heart, is considered one of the principal sites or Mulasthanas of various Srotas, including Pranavaha Srotas and Rasavaha Srotas. It plays a significant role in the circulatory system in Ayurvedic physiology.

17) Medas (Meda, Medash):
Meda, or fat tissue, is one of the seven Dhatus in Ayurveda, nourished through specific Srotas. It supports and lubricates the body and is precursor to Asthi Dhatu (bone tissue). Proper functioning of Medovaha Srotas ensures balanced fat metabolism.

18) Mala:
Mala refers to the waste products generated in the body during metabolism. Proper function of Srotas ensures the efficient elimination of Mala, maintaining bodily health. Ayurveda identifies three primary Malas: Purisha (feces), Mutra (urine), and Sveda (sweat).

19) Inflammation:
[see source text or glossary: #Inflammation#]

20) Nibandha (Nibamdha):
Nibandha refers to commentaries on classical Ayurvedic texts, such as 'Nibandha Sangraha' by Dalhanacharya on Sushruta Samhita. These annotations provide critical insights and explanations for understanding the fundamental principles like Srotas and Dhatus.

21) Narayana (Nara-ayana, Nara-yana):
Narayana refers to Narayana Ram Acharya, an editor of Ayurvedic texts like Sushruta Samhita, which discusses Srotas in depth. Contributions from scholars like Narayana Ram Acharya enhance the understanding and application of classical Ayurvedic knowledge.

22) Samgraha (Sangraha):
Sangraha refers to collection or compendium, often used in the context of Nibandha Sangraha, complementary commentaries on classical Ayurvedic texts providing detailed insights into concepts like Srotas, Doshas, and Dhatus.

23) Disease:
[see source text or glossary: #Disease#]

24) Nyaya:
Nyaya relates to the Nyaya Chandrika Panjika commentary by Gayadasacharya on Sushruta Samhita. This commentary elucidates the principles and mechanisms of the body, including the functioning and vitiation of various Srotas, aiding in better clinical understanding.

25) Bhava:
Bhava denotes factors or conditions in Ayurveda. The term is used to refer to the innumerable aspects (Aparisankheya Bhava) that influence the body, thus correspondingly affecting the Srotas, which are the channels facilitating various physiological processes.

26) Netra:
Netra, meaning eyes, is the site of Ashruvaha Srotas which manage tear flow. The health of Netra and its associated Srotas is crucial for eye function, and conditions affecting Ashruvaha Srotas lead to ailments affecting vision and tear production.

27) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
[see source text or glossary: #Transformation#]

28) Sutrasthana (Sutra-sthana):
Sutrasthana is a section in classical Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita where fundamental principles and guidelines are described. It includes details on Srotas and Dhatus essential for the foundational understanding of Ayurvedic physiology and treatment.

29) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the disruption or imbalance in the functioning of Srotas or Doshas, leading to disease. Identifying the signs of vitiation, such as Ati-Pravrutti in Srotas, is crucial for diagnosis and treatment in Ayurvedic medicine.

30) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is the classical language in which core Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita are written. Understanding Sanskrit is crucial for interpreting foundational Ayurvedic concepts such as Srotas, Dhatus, and Doshas.

31) Vimarga:
Vimarga refers to the aberrant or abnormal flow in Srotas, such as Ashruvaha Srotas. It indicates the alteration or diversion of the normal path, leading to conditions affecting the eyes or tear production, highlighting the importance of proper Srotas function.

32) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi refers to disease or ailment in Ayurveda. Various Srotas can become vitiated, leading to specific Vyadhi, which require understanding and treatment based on the Ayurvedic principles of managing the channels and their physiological roles.

33) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa refers to the muscle tissue, one of the seven Dhatus in Ayurveda. It is nourished through specific channels or Srotas and is essential for physical strength and structure. Proper nourishment and function of Mamsa Dhatu are crucial for overall health.

34) Ahara:
Ahara, meaning food, is fundamental in Ayurveda for nourishment. It gets transformed through digestive processes into Rasa and other Dhatus via Srotas. Proper digestion and absorption of Ahara are vital for maintaining the balance and function of Srotas.

35) Vaha:
Vaha means 'that which carries'. In Ayurveda, it is appended to terms like Srotas to indicate the specific channels or pathways, such as Rasavaha (carrying Rasa) and Ashruvaha (carrying tears), underscoring the transport functions of bodily systems.

36) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta Samhita is a classical Ayurvedic text attributed to Maharshi Sushruta, detailing surgical techniques and medical knowledge. It provides comprehensive information on Srotas, Dhatus, and their physiological and pathological conditions.

37) Mulasthana (Mula-sthana):
Mulasthana refers to the root or primary site of Srotas in the body. Determining the Mulasthana is essential for understanding the origin, nourishment, and treatment of various physiological pathways and for diagnosing related disorders in Ayurveda.

38) Agnivesha (Agnivesa, Agni-vesha):
Agnivesha is the principal disciple of Punarvasu Atreya, and the original author of the Charaka Samhita as redacted by Charaka. His work provides critical insights into the concepts of Srotas, Doshas, and Dhatus foundational to Ayurvedic medicine.

39) Vidyotini:
Vidyotini is a commentary on classical texts like Charaka Samhita that helps elucidate and explain various Ayurvedic concepts such as Srotas, providing in-depth understanding for modern practitioners and scholars engaged in Ayurvedic studies.

40) Knowledge:
[see source text or glossary: #Knowledge#]

41) Substance:
[see source text or glossary: #Substance#]

42) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient system of medicine originating in India, focusing on holistic health. It includes detailed studies of Srotas, Dhatus, and Doshas, guiding diagnosis and treatments aimed at maintaining or restoring balance within the body.

43) Amasaya (Amashaya, Ama-ashaya):
Amashaya, or the stomach, is considered one of the primary sites (Moolasthanas) for Annavaha Srotas, the channels responsible for the transportation of ingested food. Proper function of Amashaya is crucial for the digestion and assimilation of Ahara (food).

44) Doshaja (Dosha-ja, Dosaja):
Doshaja refers to conditions or diseases caused by the vitiation of Doshas. In terms of Srotas, Doshaja Sanga indicates blockages due to imbalanced Doshas, requiring specific Ayurvedic interventions to restore normal flow and function.

45) Dipika:
Dipika refers to commentaries or explanations, such as the Ayurveda Dipika by Chakrapanidatta on Charaka Samhita. These commentaries provide essential insights into Ayurvedic concepts like Srotas and Dhatus, enhancing understanding and application.

46) Gamana:
Gamana refers to movement or flow. In the context of Srotas, Vimarga Gamana indicates the aberrant flow of substances through the channels, highlighting disruptions in normal physiological pathways that can lead to various disorders.

47) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi, or bone tissue, is one of the seven Dhatus in Ayurveda. It plays a structural role in the body and is nourished through specific Srotas. Proper function of these channels ensures healthy bone tissue formation and maintenance.

48) Kitta:
Kitta refers to waste products derived from food after digestion and absorption. Efficient elimination of Kitta through the Srotas is essential for maintaining health and preventing accumulation that can lead to disease.

49) Pliha:
Pliha, or the spleen, is associated with Raktavaha Srotas, which are responsible for the movement and production of blood. Understanding Pliha's role helps manage disorders related to blood and related tissues in Ayurvedic medicine.

50) Snayu:
Snayu refers to ligaments or tendons, which connect muscles and bones. They are considered important structures in the context of Mamsavaha Srotas, providing structural stability and facilitating movement.

51) Marga:
[see source text or glossary: #Marga#]

52) Yakrit (Yakrt):
Yakrt, or liver, holds significance in Raktavaha Srotas, involved in the formation and purification of blood. Its function is crucial for maintaining the health of Rasa, Rakta, and related Dhatus, impacting overall systemic balance.

53) Shrava (Srava):
Srava refers to the secretion or fluid component associated with a particular Srotas. For example, Ashruvaha Srotas deal with the secretion of tears (Ashru), emphasizing the importance of fluid balance and movement within the Srotas system.

54) Bhaga:
Bhaga denotes a portion or part. In Ayurveda, distinctions are often made between Prasada Bhaga (nourishing part) and Mala Bhaga (waste part), emphasizing the differentiation and specific functions of each Dhatu and their corresponding Srotas.

55) Hindi (Himdi):
[see source text or glossary: #Hindi#]

56) Ishat (Isat, Ishad, Isad):
Ishad Pravrutti indicates reduced or partial function. In the context of Ashruvaha Srotas, this would refer to a decreased tear flow, necessitating understanding the underlying causes and restoring normal function through Ayurvedic treatment.

57) Guda:
Guda, or rectum, is associated with Purishavaha Srotas, which deal with the transportation and excretion of feces. Proper functioning of these Srotas is vital for efficient waste elimination and maintaining overall gastrointestinal health.

58) Talu (Thalu):
Talu, or palate, is associated with Udakavaha Srotas, which deal with the transportation and regulation of fluids like saliva. It plays a significant role in the initial stages of digestion and maintaining moisture balance in the oral cavity.

59) Rupa:
Rupa refers to the physical manifestation or form of a condition. In the study of Srotas like Ashruvaha Srotas, understanding the Rupa, or symptoms and forms, aids in diagnosing and treating disorders based on Ayurvedic principles.

60) Manasikabhava (Manasika-bhava):
Manasika Bhava refers to mental or emotional states. These states can influence and alter the function of Srotas, such as the Ashruvaha Srotas, where emotions like Shoka can lead to increased tear flow, illustrating the mind-body connection.

61) Sharngadhara (Sarngadhara, Sharnga-dhara):
Sharngadhara refers to the ancient author of 'Sharngadhara Samhita', providing insights into various aspects of physiology, pharmacology, and treatment in Ayurveda, including the detailed workings and interrelations of Srotas and Dhatus.

62) Asthidhatu (Asthi-dhatu):
Asthi Dhatu refers to the bone tissue, which is supported and nourished by corresponding Srotas. Its integrity and health are vital for providing structure and support to the body, illustrating the comprehensive nature of the Dhatu system.

63) Pratishyaya (Pratisyaya):
Pratishyaya refers to nasal congestion or cold, considered in Ayurvedic terms as a possible outcome of Srotas vitiation, like Ashruvaha Srotas blockage. Symptoms and related conditions are addressed through specific treatments in Ayurveda.

64) Garbhashaya (Garbhasaya, Garbha-ashaya):
Garbhashaya means the uterus, associated with Artavavaha Srotas, which are responsible for reproductive functions in females. Proper functioning of these Srotas ensures healthy menstrual cycles and overall reproductive health.

65) Mamsadhatu (Mamsha-dhatu):
Mamsa Dhatu refers to muscle tissue, nourished through specific Srotas. It plays a crucial role in movement and physical strength, emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper nourishment and circulation within these channels.

66) Pratyaksha (Pratyaksa):
Pratyaksha or direct perception is one of the methods used in Ayurveda to study and understand bodily functions, including Srotas. It involves observation and empirical evidence, aiding in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

67) Kalpadruma (Kalpa-druma):
Kalpadruma refers to the classical Sanskrit dictionary 'Shabda Kalpadruma', providing definitions and etymology of terms like Ashru, enhancing the understanding of Ayurvedic concepts through detailed linguistic analysis.

68) Purvarupa (Purva-rupa):
Purvarupa refers to the initial or prodromal symptoms of a disease. In the context of Srotas, identifying Purvarupa helps in early diagnosis and intervention, preventing full-blown manifestations of disorder affecting channels like Ashruvaha Srotas.

69) Netraroga (Netra-roga):
Netraroga refers to eye diseases or disorders. These often involve Srotas like Ashruvaha Srotas and are diagnosed and treated based on Ayurvedic principles, considering the intricate relationships of bodily channels influencing eye health.

70) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasadhatu is the primary nutrient fluid formed from digested food, circulating through Rasavaha Srotas. It is the first Dhatu, essential for the nourishment and formation of subsequent Dhatus, emphasizing its role in maintaining overall health.

71) Akshiroga (Aksiroga, Akshi-roga):
Akshiroga refers to diseases of the eyes, often involving disturbances in Srotas like Ashruvaha. Addressing these conditions involves understanding the specific symptoms and vitiations described in Ayurvedic literature for effective management.

72) Blindness:
[see source text or glossary: #Blindness#]

73) Darshana (Darsana):
Darshana, meaning vision, is critically affected by the health of Netra and its related Srotas like Ashruvaha Srotas. Proper function of these channels is essential for maintaining clear vision and eye health in Ayurvedic physiology.

74) Avakasa (Avakasha):
Avakasha denotes space or channels that bear Dhatus and other bodily substances. In Ayurveda, it refers to Srotas, which are essential for the transportation and transformation of nutrients and wastes within the body, maintaining overall balance.

75) Swelling:
[see source text or glossary: #Swelling#]

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 116]

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Physio-Anatomical Study of Anukta Srotas: Focus on Ashruvaha Srotas’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Shoka, Netraroga, Rasadhatu, Arbuda, Doshas and dhatus, Srotas dushti, Ahara Rasa, Vimarga Gamana, Dacryocystitis, Prasada Dhatu, Epiphora, Ashruvaha srotas, Anukta Srotas, Ati-Pravrutti.

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