Methodology to evolve standardized tool for Rakta Sara Pariksha

Summary of article contents:

Introduction: Dasha Vidha Pariksha (tenfold assessment) assesses Ayu Bala (lifespan), wherein Vikrititaha Pariksha (examination of illness) assesses Vyadhi Bala (strength of illness) and the remaining examination assesses Atura Bala (strength of diseased). It is conducted to know the Pramana (magnitude) of lifespan, strength and Dosha of patient, because the medicine is administered accordingly for successful treatment. Based on the excellence of Sapta Dhatu and Satva, in order to assess Bala of Atura, Ashta Sara have been explained, each characterized with specific parameters. Acharya Chakrapani has described Sara as ‘Vishudhatarodhatu’ meaning best quality of the Dhatu. Charaka has given importance to Ashta Sara, where Rakta Sara is distinctive since Rakta Dhatu endows Jeevana (sustains life activities), generates Varna Prasadana (colour) and nourishes Mamsa Dhatu. Rakta Sara is the reflection of state of Rakta dhatu in that individual. Physician should not be tempted to decide  by appearance of body structure, just like “Pippillika Bhara Haranavatsiddhi” denotes that small ants can carry much more weight than their appearance. Hence an attempt is made to develop standardized parameters of Rakta Sara Pariksha described in Ayurveda texts for assessing Deha Bala of an individual. Aim and objective: To study the various parameters of Rakta Sara Purusha and develop standardized parameters to assess Rakta Sara as described in Samhita. Methodology: A proforma is developed based on the Rakta Sara features described by Acharya Charaka and Susruta in Samhita. Due to practical difficulties, characteristics related to the genital organ are excluded from the proforma. Therefore, a total of 36 features are included for the assessment. Result: The assessment was prepared under 2 domains objective and subjective parameters. Conclusion: References from Samhita are amassed to evaluate Rakta Sarata by developing standardized parameters considering the Lakshana that Acharya Charaka and Susruta outlined.