ROLE OF RASA DHATU IN THE MAINTENANCE OF BODY

Abstract

Ayurveda emphasizes on maintenance of health in a healthy individual and treating the diseased ones. The human body comprises Tridosha, Saptadhatu, Trimala (structural and functional entities of the body). Sharira (body) is a mula for health as well as disease. Srotas (body channels) are those channels that transport and transform the sub- stances to respective tissues, cells of the human body required for life sustenance. As the Dhatu’s are classified as Sthayi and Asthayi dhatu, based on the Aahara (food) consumed the respective Dosha Utpatti (biotransformation) takes place leading to Saara Kitta Vibhajana (formation of metabolic nutrients and waste). Rasa dhatu is an Asthayi Dhatu which is predominant of Jala Mahabhuta. From the Aahara Rasa, Rasa Dhatu is formed which is the prime Dhatu resulting in the development of subsequent dhatus of the sharira. Rasa Saara Purusha is en- dowed with Aayushmanta (longer life span) and Aarogya (health). As Rasadhatu Dusti Janya Vikaras are abun- dant in our clinics, understanding of Rasavaha Srotodusti Nidana (causative factor) and Lakshana (signs and symptoms) in a patient with a relevant examination by means of Trividha Pariksha and prescribing appropriate Chikitsa (treatment) by understanding Guna -Karma principle is the need of the hour. Keywords: Rasavaha Srotas (lymph channels), Pariksha (examination), Chikitsa (treatment)