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  2. Volume 2 I Issue 3 [July To September]
  3. Concept of Raktapitta and Its Modern Interpretation – A Scientific Review
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Dr. Abhay Gandhi

Concept of Raktapitta and Its Modern Interpretation – A Scientific Review

Introduction: Raktapitta is a classical disease entity described in Ayurvedic Samhitas, characterized by bleeding from different orifices of the body due to aggravated Pitta vitiating Rakta Dhatu. It is considered a grave condition with systemic implications, and its description highlights the complex interplay of Dosha, Dhatu, and Srotas. Modern medicine recognizes similar bleeding disorders under categories such as hemorrhagic diathesis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and coagulopathies. Methods: A comprehensive review of classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya was undertaken. Additionally, modern databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched using keywords “Raktapitta,” “Ayurveda and bleeding disorders,” “hemostasis,” and “coagulation disorders.” Peer-reviewed studies, systematic reviews, and clinical trials were included, while anecdotal reports and non-peer-reviewed sources were excluded. Results: Classical texts describe Raktapitta as arising due to excessive intake of Ushna, Amla, and Lavana substances, leading to Pitta aggravation and Rakta vitiation. The condition manifests as bleeding through nasal, oral, rectal, or urinary pathways, classified into Urdhwaga (upward), Adhoga (downward), and Tiryaga (lateral). Modern interpretations link Raktapitta with vascular fragility, platelet dysfunction, clotting factor deficiencies, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Therapies in Ayurveda include cooling agents (Sheetala Dravyas), hemostatic herbs, and Panchakarma procedures, which may parallel modern approaches targeting coagulation pathways and vascular stabilization. Discussion: Raktapitta demonstrates Ayurveda’s profound understanding of pathophysiology and bleeding disorders. Its interpretation in light of modern hematology and gastroenterology enriches clinical practice. However, translational challenges persist in correlating Ayurvedic parameters with measurable biomedical markers. Integrative research is needed to establish objective diagnostic criteria and validate Ayurvedic interventions through clinical trials.

 

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Bleeding disorders, Hemostasis, Raktapitta, Srotas