Analysis of artava (menstruation) in context of sharira rachana
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Analysis of artava (menstruation) in context of sharira rachana
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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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study delves into the terminologies surrounding "Artava," or menstruation, within the framework of Sharira Rachana (the anatomy in Ayurveda). Recognizing the significance of terminology is essential for a systematic understanding of bodily structures. This article aims to compile and critically analyze the terms related to Artava—specifically Raja (menstrual flow), Artava, and Shonita (blood)—while exploring their fundamental concepts as presented in classical Ayurvedic texts. The presence of these terms from childhood through adulthood highlights the importance of understanding female reproductive health as rooted in ancient Ayurvedic traditions.
The Concept of Raja
Raja, which manifest in females typically after the age of twelve and ceases around fifty, is defined as the specific fraction of Rakta (blood) that flows during the menstrual cycle. The term emphasizes the cyclical nature of this phenomenon, which aligns with the "Ritukala," or the regular menstrual period. Notably, while Rakta is a broader term indicating blood in the body, Raja specifically refers to its manifestation as menstrual fluid. The formation of Raja is interpreted through various classical texts, establishing its critical distinction from Rakta by identifying the precise conditions and anatomical locations involved, such as the Yoni (female reproductive tract), where it is expelled during menstruation.
The Role of Shonita
Another relevant concept is Shonita, described as the fourth dosha (humor) essential for maintaining bodily balance. Shonita is connected to the formation of other physiological elements, produced from Rasa Dhatu (plasma or nutrient fluid) through the process of Ranjana, which occurs primarily in the liver and spleen. While Shonita embodies qualities of both heat and coolness, it signifies a different aspect of blood—distinct yet intertwined with the processes involved in menstruation. The interplay between Shonita and other Dhatus (tissues) in the body exhibits the comprehensive Ayurvedic approach, emphasizing the significance of understanding each component within the broader context of bodily functions and health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the article underscores the intricate connections between the terminologies of Artava, Raja, and Shonita in Ayurveda while showcasing their roles within female reproductive health. Artava is characterized by its Agneya (burning) nature, serving as a crucial element for the formation of Garbha (fetus). The monthly formation and passage of Artava—from its origins in the Yakrita (liver) and Pleeha (spleen) to its destination in the Garbhashaya (uterus)—exemplify the deeply interconnected physiological processes governed by these Ayurvedic concepts. By emphasizing the natures and definitions of these terms, the research bolsters the need for continuous exploration of Sharira Rachana terminologies to enhance our understanding of traditional Ayurvedic medicine and women's health.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
*Jain Nishi
MD Scholar, Dept. of Sharira Rachana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jorawer Singh Gate, Amer road, Jaipur, India.
Joshi Anil Kumar
MD Scholar, Dept. of Sharira Rachana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jorawer Singh Gate, Amer road, Jaipur, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Analysis of artava (menstruation) in context of sharira rachana
Year: 2015
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of understanding terminology in Sharira Rachana?
Proper understanding of terminology is crucial for systematic knowledge of any structure in Sharira Rachana. Terminology encompasses structured concepts, their designations, and establishes fundamental relationships that aid in comprehending core principles of Ayurveda.
What are the differences between Artava and Shonita in Ayurveda?
Artava is characterized by its more Agneya properties and plays a role in the formation of Garbha, while Shonita, being a general term, represents the second Dhatu. Both originate from Rasa Dhatu but serve different functions.
How is the formation process of Artava described in Ayurveda?
Artava formation requires about one month, involving a transformation process called Ranjanakriya. This process allows Saumyabhava of Rasa to convert into Agneyabhava, ultimately reaching the Garbhashaya from its originating places, Yakrita and Pleeha.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Analysis of artava (menstruation) in context of sharira rachana”. 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) Artava:
Artava refers to menstrual blood and its associated concepts in Ayurvedic literature. It is characterized by its 'Agneya' nature, essential for the formation of 'Garbha' (embryo). It has components such as 'Raja' and 'Beeja', which together contribute to reproductive health.
2) Rakta:
Rakta is the Sanskrit term for blood. In the context of Ayurveda, it forms from 'Rasa-dhatu' and possesses 'Saumyabhava' which transforms into 'Agneyabhava' through 'Ranjana-kriya'. It shares features with 'Artava' but serves broader physiological functions beyond reproduction.
3) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the fundamental tissues in Ayurveda that maintain and nourish the body. Examples include 'Rasa', 'Rakta', and 'Upadhatu'. These elements contribute to the stability and functionality of the physical body ('Sharira').
4) Raja:
Raja is specifically the menstrual flow in females, appearing typically between twelve and fifty years of age. It forms from 'Rakta' and is essential for the reproductive system, indicating healthy 'Sharira' processes per Ayurvedic texts.
5) Agneya:
Agneya refers to elements that are imbued with the qualities of fire, encompassing transformation, heat, and metabolism. In 'Artava', the 'Agneya' nature is crucial for its role in reproduction, linked to 'Tejas' or radiant energy.
6) Shonita (Sonita):
Shonita, often referred to synonymously with blood, is considered one of the 'Dhatus' in Ayurveda. It is formed by the transformation process called 'Ranjana' and has essential roles in bodily functions and balance, including as a component of 'Artava'.
7) Garbha:
Garbha means embryo or fetus in Sanskrit. It forms from the interplay of 'Sukra' (male element) and 'Artava' (female element), each contributing essential 'Tattvas' needed for conception and development.
8) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa is the primary essence or plasma derived from digested food, forming the basis for all other 'Dhatus'. From this, 'Rakta' and subsequently 'Artava' are produced through 'Ranjana-kriya'. It typifies the nourishing aspect in Ayurveda.
9) Raktadhatu (Rakta-dhatu):
Rakta-dhatu is the blood tissue in Ayurveda, crucial for maintaining life and various functions. It forms from 'Rasa-dhatu' through 'Ranjana-kriya', acquiring an 'Agneya' nature, and plays roles similar to those of 'Artava' in the context of reproduction.
10) Sharira (Sarira):
'Sharira' refers to the human body in Ayurvedic texts. 'Sharira Rachana' is the study of the body's structure, incorporating the nature and functions of elements like 'Rakta', 'Dhatu', and 'Artava'. These concepts form the basis of maintaining health.
11) Nature:
Nature in this context refers to the inherent qualities or 'Gunas' of elements like 'Artava' and 'Rakta'. For example, 'Artava' is 'Agneya' in nature, vital for reproductive purposes, while 'Rakta-dhatu' has mixed qualities like 'Saumya' and 'Agneya'.
12) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasa-dhatu is the primary plasma tissue from which other 'Dhatus' like 'Rakta-dhatu' form. Through the process of 'Ranjana', its 'Saumya' nature transforms to 'Agneya', contributing to the formation of elements like 'Artava'.
13) Saumya:
Saumya denotes the cool, nurturing qualities in tissues such as 'Rasa-dhatu'. This 'Saumyabhava' undergoes transformation to 'Agneyabhava' in the formation of 'Artava' and 'Rakta-dhatu' through 'Ranjana-kriya'.
14) Yoni (Yonin):
Yoni refers to the female reproductive organ. It serves as the destination for 'Artava' formed from 'Rasa-dhatu' undergoing 'Ranjana', playing a critical role in menstruation and reproductive health.
15) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation involves processes like 'Ranjana-kriya', where ‘Rasa-dhatu’ converts its 'Saumya' nature to 'Agneya' to form 'Rakta' and 'Artava'. This principle is fundamental in understanding how tissues evolve and function in Ayurveda.
16) Upadhatu:
Upadhatu refers to secondary tissues formed during the transformation process of 'Dhatus'. 'Artava' is considered an 'Upadhatu' of 'Rakta-dhatu', playing specific roles like providing 'Agneyatattva' for reproduction.
17) Shukra (Sukra):
Sukra represents the male reproductive element or semen in Ayurvedic literature. It is 'Saumya' in nature, providing the required cooling and nurturing properties for the formation of 'Garbha'.
18) Cakrapani (Cakra-pani):
Cakrapani is an important commentator in Ayurvedic texts who elaborated on the nature and functions of elements like 'Artava' and 'Rakta'. His insights help clarify processes in 'Sharira Rachana'.
19) Tattva:
Tattva refers to the fundamental principles or elements that constitute substances. For example, 'Artava' embodies the 'Agneyatattva', crucial for reproductive functions in Ayurveda.
20) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha are primary bio-elements governing the body’s physiological and psychological processes. Shonita is sometimes considered a fourth Dosha, balancing the body's state alongside the main three: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
21) Garbhashaya (Garbhasaya, Garbha-ashaya):
Garbhashaya refers to the uterus, the destination point for 'Artava' after its formation. It is central to the reproductive process and the nurturing environment for the developing 'Garbha'.
22) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual health. Core concepts like 'Artava', 'Dhatu', and 'Dosha' are vital in maintaining balance and well-being.
23) Samhita:
Samhita are classical Ayurvedic texts containing detailed knowledge on various aspects of health and disease. They describe the concepts of 'Sharira Rachana', including elements like 'Artava' and 'Rakta Dhatu'.
24) Purity:
Purity in Ayurveda refers to the unadulterated quality of bodily substances. For instance, pure 'Rakta' should not stain a cloth permanently, indicating healthy 'Artava' and overall balance.
25) Blood:
Blood in Ayurveda, referred to as 'Rakta', is a vital tissue formed from 'Rasa-dhatu'. It shares properties with 'Artava' but serves broader systemic functions like nourishing tissues and maintaining homeostasis.
26) Knowledge:
Knowledge in the context of Ayurveda pertains to understanding the interconnectedness of bodily elements like 'Dhatus', 'Doshas', and 'Artava'. This holistic view aids in maintaining health and diagnosing ailments.
27) Pradhana:
Pradhana means dominant or principal. For example, 'Artava' is 'Agneya Pradhana', dominating in fire element, vital for reproductive functions in the female body.
28) Guna:
Guna are the qualities or attributes assigned to different elements. For instance, 'Artava' is 'Agneya' in nature, emphasizing its fiery, transformative properties, crucial for its reproductive role.
29) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation in Ayurvedic terms often indicates an imbalance of the 'Pitta' Dosha. It is not associated with normal 'Artava' flow, which should be free of pain and discomfort.
30) Mahabhuta (Maha-bhuta):
Mahabhuta refers to the five great elements constituting all matter. 'Artava' is principally associated with the 'Tejas' or fire element, which is crucial for its function in reproduction.
31) Substance:
Substance in Ayurveda, like 'Artava' or 'Rasa', refers to the essential materials constituting the body. These substances undergo transformation to maintain health and support physiological functions.
32) Avayava:
Avayava means organ or part. For instance, 'Yakrita' (liver) and 'Pleeha' (spleen) are key Avayavas involved in the process of 'Ranjana' to form 'Rakta' and 'Artava'.
33) Snigdha:
Snigdha denotes the oily or unctuous quality, typical of 'Saumya' elements. This quality facilitates the transformation of 'Rasa' to 'Rakta' and 'Artava' during 'Ranjana-kriya'.
34) Ranjana (Ramjana):
Ranjana is the process of coloring or transforming, crucial in converting 'Rasa' to 'Rakta' and 'Artava'. This process imbues these tissues with 'Agneya' properties essential for their respective functions.
35) Jaipur:
Jaipur is a city in India where significant research in Ayurveda is conducted. For instance, the National Institute of Ayurveda in Jaipur is an important center for studies on 'Sharira Rachana' and related fields.
36) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with heat and metabolism. It governs transformational processes like 'Ranjana-kriya' for the conversion of 'Rasa' to 'Rakta' and 'Artava'.
37) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas, characterized by its stabilizing and grounding qualities. It governs the second phase of the menstrual cycle, known as 'Ritukala'.
38) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi is a surname that appears in the authorship of the article discussing 'Artava' in the context of 'Sharira Rachana'. Anil Kumar Joshi contributed to this research.
39) India:
India is the country where Ayurveda originated and where significant research and practice in this field, including studies on 'Artava' and other 'Dhatus', continue to thrive.
40) Kumar:
Kumar is likely part of the name of one of the authors, Anil Kumar Joshi, who contributed to the article on 'Artava' and 'Sharira Rachana'.
41) Fire:
Fire is synonymous with the 'Agneya' nature in Ayurveda. Elements like 'Artava' are described as 'Agneya Pradhana', meaning they are predominantly composed of fire elements essential for reproductive functions.
42) Pain:
Pain associated with menstruation indicates an imbalance of the Doshas, particularly 'Pitta'. Normal 'Artava' flow is typically free from pain or burning sensations.
43) Menstrual blood:
Menstrual blood or 'Raja' flows during specific periods and is essential for evaluating reproductive health in Ayurveda. It is differentiated from general 'Rakta' by specific characteristics and time frames.
44) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is a foundational text in Ayurveda that covers 'Sharira Rachana', including detailed descriptions of 'Artava', 'Rakta-dhatu', and other elements crucial for understanding human anatomy and physiology.
45) Sharngadhara (Sarngadhara, Sharnga-dhara):
Sharngadhara is an authoritative Ayurvedic scholar who described 'Raja' as an 'Upadhatu' of 'Rakta'. His contributions help clarify the functions and formation of menstrual elements in Ayurveda.
46) Adhishthana (Adhisthana):
Adhishthana means the base or foundation. In the context of 'Artava', the 'Streeyoni' is the 'Rachanatmaka Adhishthana' from which the menstrual blood is expelled.
47) Pratyaksha (Pratyaksa):
Pratyaksha refers to direct observation or perception. In Ayurveda, the purity of 'Rakta' or 'Artava' can be determined through direct examination, such as analyzing the color of menstrual blood.
48) Arunadatta:
Arunadatta is an Ayurvedic commentator who opined that 'Raja' is formed from 'Ahararasa' rather than 'Rasa Dhatu', providing key insights into reproductive physiology.
49) Discussion:
Discussion sections in academic articles elaborate on the primary findings, such as the characteristics of 'Artava', its formation, and its significance in reproductive health, providing critical analysis.
50) Kshatriya (Ksatriya):
Kshatriya denotes a social class in ancient India. The duration of 'Ritukala' or fertile period varies among different classes, including Kshatriyas, based on textual references.
51) Fragrance:
Fragrance is metaphorically used in Ayurvedic texts to distinguish stages of growth, indicating that elements like 'Raja' or 'Stanya' become perceptible at appropriate times.
52) Jequirity:
Jequirity is a plant whose red seeds are referenced to describe the color of healthy menstrual blood ('Raja') in Ayurvedic literature.
53) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is a prominent Ayurvedic author who described menstrual blood ('Artava') as accumulated blood ('Rakta') in the uterus, elucidating stages of its formation and properties.
54) Brahmani:
Brahmani refers to women of the Brahmin class. Ayurveda texts note variations in the durations of fertile periods, specifying twelve days for Brahmani.
55) Prakriti (Prakrti):
Prakriti denotes the inherent constitution or nature of an individual in Ayurveda. It influences characteristics like the color of 'Raja' and other physiological attributes.
56) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridoṣa refers to three primary bodily humors—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—that govern physiological functions. The balance of Tridoṣa is vital for maintaining health and influencing processes like 'Ranjana'.
57) Pramana:
Pramana refers to measurements or standards. For example, 'Artava' is sometimes described as amounting to four 'Anjali', providing a measure of its normal volume.
58) Kshudra (Ksudra):
Kshudra refers to the class of people considered lower in the social hierarchy. Ayurvedic texts provide different durations for the fertile period ('Ritukala') for such classes, typically shorter than others.
59) Dhamani:
Dhamani refers to vessels or channels in the body, responsible for the circulation of 'Artava' from its place of origin to the uterus.
60) Vaishya (Vaisya):
Vaishya denotes a social class involved in commerce. According to Ayurvedic texts, the duration of the fertile period ('Ritukala') varies among these societal divisions, for Vaishyas, it is noted as ten or eight days.
61) Purana:
Purana Raja refers to the accumulation of old menstrual blood, indicating hormonal or physical imbalances affecting the normal menstrual cycle.
62) Caraka:
Caraka is one of the foundational authors in Ayurveda whose texts ('Samhita') provide details on the formation and nature of 'Artava' and other bodily elements.
63) Laksha (Laksa):
Laksha is a resinous substance used as a reference in Ayurveda to describe the color of 'Raja' or menstrual blood, highlighting the qualities of healthy menstruation.
64) Stanya:
Stanya refers to breast milk in Ayurveda, considered another vital secretion formed from 'Rasa Dhatu'. It appears proportionate to a woman’s reproductive and nurturing capabilities.
65) Anjali (Amjali):
Anjali is a unit of measure in Ayurveda, equivalent to the volume held in cupped hands. In the context of 'Artava', it is used to quantify the amount of menstrual blood.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 76]