"Rasavaha Srotas: An Anatomical Exploration and Its Correlation with Cardiovascular Physiology"

Abstract

The human body is sustained through the coordinated functions of Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala, which are transported via specific channels termed Srotas. Each Srotas has a regulatory site termed Srotomula, which functions as its governing center. Classical texts compare Srotomula to the root of a tree, emphasizing its vital role in sustaining the channel’s integrity. The present study undertakes a literary review to assess the concept of Srotas and Srotomula with special reference to Rasavaha Srotas. According to Charaka, Sushruta, and Ashtanga Samgraha, the Hridaya (heart) and Dash Dhamanis (ten great vessels) constitute the Moola Sthana of Rasavaha Srotas. These structures regulate the circulation of Rasa Dhatu, the primary nutrient essence derived from digested food, which serves as the foundation for the nourishment and development of subsequent Dhatus. Physiologically, Rasa Dhatu supports growth, immunity, thermoregulation, and tissue maintenance. The Ayurvedic description of Rasavaha Srotas aligns with the vascular and capillary networks in modern science, which distribute plasma, lymph, and essential nutrients throughout the body. This review concludes that Srotas can be considered as anatomicophysiological pathways, while Srotomula represents their control sites, highlighting the integrative role of the heart and vascular system in maintaining systemic equilibrium.

KEYWORD- Srotas, Srotomula, Preenan, Vardhan.