Pilot study on holistic health effects of raktamokshan in vicharchika.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Pilot study of the holistic health effects of raktamokshan (siravedha) karma in vicharchika
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Dr. Pragati Gupta, Dr. Minaj Kulkarni and Prof. Dr. S. M. Vedpathak
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Pilot study of the holistic health effects of raktamokshan (siravedha) karma in vicharchika
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20176-8644
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The paper discusses a pilot study on the holistic health effects of Raktamokshan (Siravedha) therapy in treating Vicharchika, an Ayurvedic term for eczema. The study highlights that Vicharchika is predominantly linked to the vitiation of Kapha and Vata doshas, manifesting symptoms such as dryness, discoloration, itching, and pain. This condition significantly impacts the quality of life, affecting approximately 10-20% of the global population. The study aims to assess the broader effects of the Raktamokshan procedure beyond physical symptoms to include mental and emotional well-being.
The Holistic Approach to Health
The concept of holistic health in Ayurveda encompasses the body, mind, senses, and spirit, advocating for a comprehensive approach to treatment. In the context of Vicharchika, it is essential to understand how psychological factors like fear and anxiety influence the patient's condition. Siravedha, as a therapeutic procedure, is believed to cleanse not only the body but also to purify the mind, thereby improving life quality and overall well-being. The study suggests that successful treatment involves addressing both physical symptoms and emotional aspects, indicating a strong interplay between mental states and physical health.
Raktamokshan (Bloodletting)
Raktamokshan refers to the Ayurvedic practice of bloodletting which is primarily indicated for diseases that stem from blood-related disorders. In treating Vicharchika, Raktamokshan aims to expel vitiated doshas and toxins from the body, which can alleviate symptoms such as itching, burning, and dryness associated with eczema. The therapy is grounded in the traditional principle that purging impure blood can lead to a restoration of balance among the body's doshas, resulting in symptomatic relief and improved skin health. This bloodletting procedure is viewed as holistic as it not only focuses on the physical aspect but also promotes mental purification.
Effects on Mental Health
The study indicates that interventions like Siravedha can lead to significant improvements in aspects related to mental health. Parameters assessed included levels of stress, anxiety, interpersonal support, and self-efficacy. Following the Siravedha treatment, patients showed notable progress in their mental well-being, as evidenced by reduced stress and anxiety levels. The results suggest that as physical symptoms improve, so too do the emotional and psychological challenges faced by patients, thereby underscoring the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
Conclusion
The pilot study concludes that Raktamokshan therapy is effective in alleviating symptoms of Vicharchika while also contributing positively to the holistic health of patients. The findings reiterate the importance of an integrative approach, considering both physical and emotional dimensions for comprehensive therapeutic outcomes. Through bloodletting, not only are the physical manifestations of the disease addressed, but there is also a significant enhancement in the mental and emotional quality of life for patients, promoting an overall sense of well-being. This dual impact highlights the efficacy of Ayurvedic practices in the contemporary health landscape, advocating for further research in this domain.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Vicharchika in Ayurveda and its common symptoms?
Vicharchika, correlating with eczema, presents symptoms like dryness, itching, and discoloration of the skin, primarily caused by imbalances in Kapha and Vata doshas, affecting 10-20% of the global population.
What is the procedure of Raktamokshana or Siravedha?
Raktamokshana, also known as blood letting, is a Panchakarma therapy aimed at removing vitiated doshas and impure blood from the body, thus alleviating symptoms of conditions like Vicharchika.
How does Raktamokshana impact the mental health of patients?
The study indicates that Raktamokshana therapy not only has physical benefits but also enhances mental well-being, reducing anxiety, stress levels, and improving overall quality of life for patients.
What was the aim of the holistic study on Raktamokshana?
The aim was to evaluate both physical and mental effects of Raktamokshana in treating Vicharchika, focusing on improvements in health-related quality of life and psychological well-being.
What types of eczemas can Vicharchika encompass?
Vicharchika can be associated with various eczema types, influenced mainly by factors related to vitiation of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, leading to multiple skin manifestations.
What are the findings regarding quality of life after Siravedha therapy?
Patients showed significant improvements in quality of life post-Siravedha therapy, including enhanced mental clarity, reduced anxiety, and better interpersonal support as confirmed by validated questionnaires.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pilot study on holistic health effects of raktamokshan in vicharchika.”. 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) Siravedha (Sira-vedha):
Siravedha refers to the Ayurvedic practice of bloodletting intended to cleanse the body of vitiated doshas. It is particularly utilized in treating conditions like Vicharchika, where symptoms relate to skin disorders. This therapy is believed to restore balance within the body and enhance overall well-being.
2) Samhita:
Samhita signifies a compilation of Ayurvedic texts that embody ancient wisdom on medicine, treatment methods, and holistic health. These texts, such as the Charak Samhita and Sushrut Samhita, provide critical insights into diagnosis, therapeutic practices, and philosophical foundations of Ayurveda that guide practitioners in effective health management.
3) Gupta:
Gupta is the last name of one of the authors of the study on Raktamokshana and its effects on Vicharchika (eczema). In the context of academic research, it signifies the contributions and insights of the individual in advancing understanding of traditional Ayurvedic therapies and their holistic benefits.
4) Mana:
Mana refers to the mind or mental state in Ayurvedic philosophy. This concept acknowledges the interconnection between mental health and physical wellness. In treatments like Raktamokshana, attention to Mana is important as it can influence the effectiveness of therapies and the overall quality of life.
5) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi is a city in India known for its cultural and spiritual heritage, especially related to Ayurveda and traditional medicine. Its significance extends to being an educational hub where ancient texts and practices are studied and preserved, impacting the holistic health practices prevalent in the region.
6) Disease:
In this context, disease relates to conditions such as Vicharchika (eczema) characterized by skin ailments resulting from imbalances in bodily doshas. Understanding disease in Ayurveda involves examining etiological factors, symptoms, and treatment methods to restore balance and promote healing through holistic approaches.
7) Karma (Karman):
Karma in Ayurveda denotes actions or therapies that contribute to healing processes. Each treatment method is seen as a form of karma intended to affect the body's doshas and promote overall health. Raktamokshana, viewed as a therapeutic karma, embodies cleansing and rejuvenating actions for the body.
8) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha represents the three fundamental biological energies in Ayurvedic medicine: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha has unique characteristics and governs various physiological functions. Imbalances in doshas are central to understanding health issues and guide treatment strategies aimed at restoring harmony within the body.
9) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, primarily associated with metabolic processes and transformation. It embodies qualities like heat and fluidity. In conditions such as Vicharchika, elevated Pitta can lead to skin irritation and inflammation, thus necessitating therapies that pacify this dosha for healing.
10) Life:
Life encompasses both physical and mental aspects of an individual's existence. In Ayurveda, the quest for a balanced life is foundational, aiming to harmonize the doshas and promote overall well-being. Holistic therapies focus on enhancing life quality through integrative practices addressing mind and body.
11) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with structure, stability, and fluidity. It governs bodily tissues and the immune system. In the context of Vicharchika, vitiated Kapha may contribute to skin issues, thus therapies aim to balance this dosha for optimal health.
12) Rakta:
Rakta refers to blood in Ayurvedic terminology. Considered one of the seven dhatus (tissues), it plays a crucial role in sustaining life and vitality. In treatments like Raktamokshana, the purification and balancing of Rakta are vital for alleviating conditions such as Vicharchika.
13) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi translates to disease or disorder in Ayurveda. Understanding vyadhi involves assessing the dosha imbalance and symptoms present. It forms a core aspect of diagnosis and treatment, where the aim is to restore health by addressing the underlying causes through appropriate therapeutic interventions.
14) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a psychological condition that may arise due to imbalances in the doshas, affecting mental well-being. In the context of the study, the impact of Raktamokshana on reducing symptoms of anxiety demonstrates the interconnectedness between physical therapies and mental health outcomes.
15) Study (Studying):
The study focuses on evaluating the effects of Raktamokshana on Vicharchika and its holistic benefits on patients. It highlights the importance of integrating traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern health assessments to understand the multifaceted impact of therapies on overall wellness.
16) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas responsible for movement and communication in the body. Characterized by qualities like dryness and mobility, vitiation of Vata can lead to various disorders, including those affecting the skin. Its regulation is essential in Ayurvedic treatments for restoring balance.
17) Samprapti:
Samprapti refers to the pathogenesis or development of disease in Ayurveda. It outlines how imbalances in doshas lead to symptoms. Understanding samprapti is crucial for practitioners to formulate appropriate treatment plans that address both the root causes and manifestations of a disorder.
18) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine originating in India, emphasizing holistic healing through the balance of mind, body, and spirit. It encompasses a vast body of knowledge regarding diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care, aiming to promote health and longevity through natural means.
19) Quality:
Quality in this context relates to the overall experience of health, encompassing physical, mental, and social well-being. Improving quality of life through Ayurvedic treatments like Raktamokshana signifies holistic health promotion, which directly influences a patient's satisfaction and lifestyle.
20) Manas (Mano, Manash):
Manas refers to the mind in Ayurvedic philosophy. It plays a significant role in understanding health as mental states can affect physical conditions. The study investigates how therapies like Raktamokshana not only impact physical ailments but also promote mental well-being.
21) Blood:
Blood, or Rakta, in Ayurveda is considered vital for carrying nutrients and sustaining life. Its purification through methods like Raktamokshana is essential for treating ailments caused by its vitiation, such as skin disorders, reflecting the critical relationship between blood and overall health.
22) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analysis and interpretation of findings from the study. It encompasses exploring the relationship between Raktamokshana and its effects on both physical symptoms and mental states, aiming to draw meaningful conclusions about the holistic benefits of Ayurvedic therapies.
23) Table:
Table refers to a structured representation of data used to present findings from the research clearly. Tables in the study illustrate various assessments on quality of life and mental health indicators before and after Raktamokshana, highlighting the therapy’s effectiveness through statistical evidence.
24) Nidana:
Nidana means the cause or etiology of a disease in Ayurveda. Identifying nidana allows practitioners to understand the root causes of conditions such as Vicharchika, guiding them towards appropriate therapeutic approaches that address both symptoms and underlying imbalances in the body.
25) Bhava:
Bhava refers to emotional state or psychological disposition in Ayurveda. Understanding bhava is crucial as mental conditions influence overall health. In the study context, how bhavas affect disease manifestations and responses to treatment highlights the integral connection between mental and physical health.
26) Aahar:
Aahar translates to diet or food intake in Ayurvedic terminology. Proper aahar is essential for maintaining dosha balance and preventing disease. The study emphasizes the importance of dietary considerations in conjunction with Ayurvedic therapies like Raktamokshana to achieve holistic healing.
27) Raktamokshana (Raktamoksana, Rakta-mokshana):
Raktamokshana is the Ayurvedic practice of bloodletting aimed at detoxifying the body and balancing doshas. It is particularly relevant in treating skin disorders like Vicharchika. The study investigates its impact not only on physical symptoms but also on psychological well-being of patients.
28) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the deterioration or corruption of doshas leading to disease manifestations in Ayurveda. Understanding dosha vitiation is fundamental for practitioners to design effective treatment plans, as restoring normal function is essential for curing ailments like Vicharchika.
29) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kushtha refers to skin diseases in Ayurveda, encompassing various dermatological conditions. Recognizing Kushtha and its symptoms is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment strategies. Vicharchika, as a type of Kushtha, highlights the need for targeted therapies such as Raktamokshana for effective management.
30) Kandu (Kamdu):
Kandu signifies itching in Ayurveda, which is a common symptom of various skin conditions including Vicharchika. Understanding kandu helps clinicians recognize the underlying dosha imbalances and guides of effective treatments aimed at alleviating this distressing symptom.
31) Blood letting:
Blood letting is a therapeutic practice in Ayurveda, particularly embodied in techniques like Raktamokshana. It aims to eliminate excess or toxic blood, thus helping to restore balance in the body and alleviating disorders related to blood vitiation, such as certain skin diseases.
32) Blood-letting:
Blood-letting is another term for the practice of extracting blood for therapeutic purposes, commonly associated with Raktamokshana in Ayurveda. The technique aims to purify the body’s systems by removing vitiated blood to restore balance and heal diseases resulting from dosha imbalances.
33) Observation:
Observation refers to the systematic examination and monitoring of the effects of Raktamokshana on patients. Through careful observation, researchers gather data on how this therapy impacts both physical symptoms and psychological states, forming a basis for understanding its holistic benefits.
34) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha represents the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, which are essential for maintaining health and balance in the body. Recognizing the role of Tridosha in disease pathogenesis allows practitioners to create comprehensive treatment strategies that restore equilibrium and promote healing.
35) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriya refers to the senses or sense organs in Ayurveda, which are integral to experiencing and interacting with the external world. Awareness of Indriya is crucial when addressing treatments like Raktamokshana, as sensory perceptions impact mental states and overall well-being.
36) Bharati:
Bharati refers to Bharati Vidyapeeth, an educational institution in Pune, India, which offers courses in Ayurveda. It plays a significant role in advancing Ayurvedic education and research, contributing to the restoration and preservation of traditional healing practices.
37) Itching:
Itching, or kandu, is a prevalent symptom in skin disorders like Vicharchika. Understanding the nature of itching is vital for practitioners to address patient discomfort effectively. Treatments aiming to alleviate itching are essential components of therapeutic strategies in Ayurveda.
38) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven essential tissues in the body. Each dhatu serves specific functions and contributes to overall health. In Ayurveda, a balance among dhatus is essential for maintaining vitality and preventing diseases, stressing the interconnectedness of bodily systems.
39) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi is one of the primary languages spoken in India and often used in Ayurvedic texts and discussions. The translation of knowledge and concepts in Hindi makes Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, promoting an understanding of traditional healthcare practices.
40) Pune:
Pune is a city in India known for its educational institutes, including those focused on Ayurvedic studies. It serves as a center for learning and research in traditional medicine, helping preserve and advance Ayurvedic practices and principles.
41) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha denotes the specific dosha associated with movement, communication, and biological functions. In Ayurvedic practices, therapeutic interventions often focus on balancing Vata-dosha to alleviate conditions arising from its vitiation, highlighting its significance in holistic health approaches.
42) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the rigorous methods used to study and validate the effects of Ayurvedic treatments. Incorporating scientific approaches in research helps bridge traditional practices with contemporary understanding, establishing evidence-based effectiveness of therapies like Raktamokshana.
43) Rukshata (Ruksata):
Rukshata refers to dryness, commonly associated with skin conditions. In Ayurveda, identifying rukshata is essential for determining the appropriate treatments to address skin ailments, especially those linked to vitiated doshas such as Vata and Kapha.
44) Prakopa:
Prakopa means the aggravation or increase of doshas, often leading to disease states. Understanding prakopa helps Ayurvedic practitioners design effective therapies to pacify excess doshas and restore balance, crucial in managing conditions like Vicharchika.
45) Sutra:
Sutra refers to aphorisms or concise statements in Ayurvedic texts, containing deep philosophical and practical knowledge. These verses guide practitioners in understanding principles of health, disease management, and effective treatment strategies within the framework of Ayurveda.
46) Dadhi:
Dadhi refers to curd or yogurt in Ayurvedic dietary practices. Considered beneficial or harmful depending on individual constitution, its intake can influence dosha balance and is often discussed in relation to various health conditions and dietary recommendations.
47) Rupa:
Roopa refers to form or structure, important in assessing health conditions. Observing roopa allows Ayurvedic practitioners to identify disease manifestations and informs treatment decisions targeting specific ailments based on physical attributes.
48) Guna:
Guna refers to the inherent qualities or properties of substances, including herbs and foods, in Ayurveda. Each guna affects how substances interact with the body's doshas, influencing treatment choices and overall health management.
49) Pain:
Pain is a physical sensation commonly experienced in various health conditions, including skin disorders like Vicharchika. Understanding the underlying causes of pain in Ayurvedic terms assists practitioners in devising therapeutic interventions aimed at alleviating discomfort and restoring well-being.
50) Purification:
Purification in Ayurveda refers to cleansing processes intended to remove toxins and vitiated doshas from the body. Techniques such as Raktamokshana are utilized in purification, designed to restore balance and enhance overall health through systematic detoxification.
51) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pitta-dosha represents the digestive and metabolic energies in the body. It's crucial in governing heat and transformation. When Pitta becomes imbalanced, it can manifest as skin disorders, necessitating treatments that aim to pacify Pitta for overall health restoration.
52) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha embodies the energies of structure and stability. Its imbalance often leads to congestion and lethargy, impacting skin health. Understanding Kapha's role in disease pathogenesis aids in forming treatments that restore balance within the body.
53) Upashaya (Upasaya):
Upashaya refers to the measures or remedies used to relieve symptoms or mitigate the impact of dosha imbalances. Identification of effective upashaya is essential for crafting Ayurvedic interventions to alleviate disorders like Vicharchika.
54) Pradhana:
Pradhana indicates the primary or dominant factor in a system. In Ayurveda, recognizing which dosha is pradhana helps tailor treatment approaches effectively focused on addressing the core imbalances causing health issues.
55) Kshudra (Ksudra):
Ksudra refers to minor or less severe health conditions. While termed minor, conditions like Vicharchika require appropriate treatment to prevent progression, emphasizing the need for effective management even in less severe cases.
56) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning sensation is a common symptom associated with several skin disorders. Understanding the nature of burning in Ayurvedic context provides clinicians with insights into the dosha imbalances at play, guiding suitable treatment pathways to relieve discomfort.
57) Vikara:
Vikara refers to any alteration or disturbance in normal physiological functions leading to disease. In Ayurveda, understanding vikara is essential for diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the need to return to a state of equilibrium within the body.
58) Dushya (Dusya):
Dushya indicates the underlying substances or components that are affected during the disease process. Recognizing dushya is crucial for practitioners to tailor treatments that target the right areas of imbalance in the body.
59) Angula (Amgula):
Angula is a unit of measurement in Ayurveda, used to describe specific dimensions or placements in therapeutic procedures. Precise understanding of angula is essential during treatment applications, ensuring effectiveness and safety in methods like Siravedha.
60) Shanti (Santi, Samti, Shamti):
Shanti refers to peace or tranquility in both physical and mental realms. In Ayurveda, achieving shanti is an essential goal of therapeutic practices, as reducing stress and anxiety significantly enhances overall well-being.
61) Chinta:
Chinta means worry or concern, which can contribute to dosha imbalances and exacerbate health conditions. In Ayurvedic treatment paradigms, addressing mental states like chinta is fundamental to restoring balance and optimizing healing outcomes.
62) Bahya:
Bahya signifies external or outer aspects related to health. In Ayurvedic contexts, treatment strategies may focus on bahya occurrences alongside inner factors, emphasizing a holistic approach to disease management, such as through Raktamokshana for external skin disorders.
63) Guru:
Guru refers to heavy or dense qualities, often associated with certain foods or conditions in Ayurveda. Recognizing the guru aspect of substances helps practitioners understand their role in dosha imbalances and guides dietary choices for optimal health.
64) Ruja:
Ruja represents pain or discomfort experienced as a symptom of disease. Understanding ruja in Ayurveda allows practitioners to address underlying causes, facilitating tailored treatments that mitigate physical suffering and promote healing.
65) Roga:
Roga denotes disease in general within Ayurvedic terminology. The identification and understanding of roga are critical for practitioners in determining appropriate therapies, emphasizing the comprehensive evaluation of symptoms and root causes in treatment protocols.
66) Raja:
Raja refers to the quality of activity or mobility, often associated with the Pitta dosha. Imbalanced raja can contribute to mental disturbance and agitation, whereby understanding its implications helps practitioners utilize treatments to restore mental equilibrium.
67) Tama:
Tama signifies the qualities of inertia or dullness, typically relating to Kapha dosha. An understanding of tama aids Ayurvedic practitioners in managing conditions associated with sluggishness or lethargy, emphasizing the need for revitalizing treatments.
68) Hetu:
Hetu translates to cause or reason behind occurrences, particularly in the context of disease development in Ayurveda. Identifying hetu assists practitioners in understanding etiological factors contributing to dosha imbalances and devising effective treatment strategies.
69) Sira (Shira):
Sira means vein or conduit for blood flow in Ayurveda. Recognizing the role of sira is essential in treatments like Raktamokshana, where bloodletting occurs, reflecting the significance of regulating blood circulatory patterns in health.
70) Amla:
Amla translates to sourness, often associated with specific foods or dietary habits. In Ayurveda, amla is considered to have specific effects on dosha balance, making it essential for practitioners to understand its role in both dietary recommendations and therapeutic strategies.
71) Daha:
Daha refers to a burning sensation typically experienced during various ailments. Recognizing this symptom within Ayurvedic diagnosis helps practitioners target relevant doshas and apply appropriate therapies to alleviate discomfort.
72) Sign:
Sign relates to the observable characteristics or symptoms indicative of a particular health condition. In Ayurveda, recognizing these signs is crucial for accurate diagnosis and formulating effective treatment plans to restore balance.
73) Milk:
Milk is considered a nutritious food in Ayurveda, valued for its cooling properties. However, its consumption must be balanced with individual dosha characteristics, and understanding its effects is essential in dietary recommendations and treatments for conditions, including skin disorders.
74) Mental health:
Mental health pertains to psychological well-being and emotional resilience. Awareness of mental health in Ayurveda emphasizes the impact of thoughts and emotions on overall health, guiding practitioners towards holistic treatments that address both physical and psychological aspects.
75) Human body:
The human body is seen as a holistic entity in Ayurveda, where physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions converge. Ayurvedic practices aim to restore balance within the body, recognizing its complexities and interconnections between all aspects of health.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 155]
Other Science Concepts:
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Purvarupa, Skin disease, Quality of life, Panchakarma Therapy, Vicharchika Eczema, Holistic Health effects, Interpersonal support, Holistic Health Care, Self efficacy, Epidemiological studies, Symptoms of Vicharchika, Nidana and Samprapti, Stress and anxiety, Rakta Pradoshaj Vikara, Apathya Aahar Vihar, Manas Bhav, Tridoshaj Vyadhi, Siravedha procedure, Psychosocial effect.