Role of Siravedha Karma and Shamana Aushadhi in the Management of Vataja Kushtha – A Case Study

Abstract

Acharaya has considered Siravedha (Raktamokshan) as half of all the therapeutic measures in Shalya-tantra like Basti Karma in Kaya-chikitsa. The surgical procedure of puncturing the vein for therapeutic purpose and thereby accomplishing the Raktamokshana is referred by the name Siravedha. Raktmokshana (Bloodletting) (siravedha) is one of the Panchakarma therapies; it’s the choice of the treatment in all the Rakta Pradoshaj Vikaras like Kushtha. It is a common procedure for the management of different diseases with vitiated Rakta dosa. Rakta Dhatu along with vitiated Dosha is let out from the veins in disorders where the Rakta dhatu is causative factor in pathogenesis in vataja kushtha. Before starting the procedure, we give abhyantar snehapana (ghritapana) which help to nullify the side effects of siravedha karma (due to vataprakop).