Rakta dhatu or blood is one of the 7 dhatus or tissues explained in Ayurveda. Rakta dhatu performs vital activities needed for a healthy life.
Related article – Ayurveda Description of 7 Tissues or Sapta Dhatu
Formation of rakta or blood an ayurveda view
Functions of Rakta dhatu or blood according to ayurveda
5 basic elements (Panchabhoutikatwa) in rakta dhatu or blood
What causes imbalance of rakta dhatu ?
Diseases caused by the imbalance of Rakta dhatu or blood
Features of a person who has balanced rakta dhatu (Raktasara purusha)
How to Increase Blood in Body – Ayurveda Way
Formation of rakta or blood an Ayurveda view
According to Ayurveda when rasa dhatu (lymph) is mixed with “ranjaka pitta” (haemoglobin) it forms Rakta dhatu or blood. Ranjaka pitta is one of the 5 types of pitta.
Functions of Rakta dhatu or blood according to Ayurveda
Rakta dhatu in balanced condition nourishes the body. Its functions are explained as follows
“Raktam varna prasaadanam mamsa pushtim jeevayathicha”
Rakta dhatu enhances the tone, complexion and glow of the skin. It strengthens and nourishes “mamsa dhatu” (Muscles). The whole physiology of the body is dependent on this tissue. Rakta strengthens the body and keeps it healthy. It increases the life span and keeps the person active.
When a person has pure and healthy blood in his body he exhibits the following symptoms.
-He has an attractive complexion and glowing skin
-His sense organs work perfectly.
-He has perfect digestive power.
-He is always healthy and happy.
-His other dhatus get good nourishment.
5 basic elements (Panchabhoutikatwa) in rakta dhatu or blood
According to Ayurveda panchamahabhuta constitution of blood is as follows
Its fleshy odour indicates the presence of earth element or pruthvi bhuta. Its fluid nature shows water element or jala bhuta. It is red in colour indicating the presence of a fire element or agni bhuta, Its pulsatile movement indicates air element or Vayu bhuta, It is light in nature indicating space element or akasha bhuta.
What Imbalances Rakta Dhatu ?
Rakta Dhatu, an essential tissue in Ayurveda, plays a critical role in nourishing the body, maintaining life, and providing vitality. An imbalance in this tissue can disrupt overall health and manifest in various ailments.
Several factors can lead to the disruption of this crucial tissue:
Dietary Missteps:
Consuming foods that are excessively spicy, sour, salty, or oily can cause an accumulation of heat in the body. This can lead to a vitiation of the blood tissue. Likewise, irregular eating habits, overeating, or the intake of incompatible food combinations can also upset the balance.
Excessive Alcohol and Toxins:
Overindulgence in alcoholic beverages or exposure to environmental toxins can overburden the liver, a vital organ for blood purification. This, in turn, can lead to impurities in the blood.
Emotional Factors:
Chronic stress, anger, or emotional turmoil can generate excess heat in the body, which can impact the quality and health of the blood.
Lack of Physical Activity:
Sedentary lifestyles lead to poor circulation. Stagnation can result in the accumulation of toxins, affecting the purity and health of the blood.
Overexposure to Sun or Heat:
Spending excessive time in hot environments or under the direct sun can increase the body’s internal heat. This heightened thermal state can upset the balance of the blood tissue.
Hormonal Imbalance:
Hormonal fluctuations, especially those that are not in sync with the body’s natural rhythms, can lead to disorders of the blood.
Inadequate Sleep:
Irregular sleep, sleeplessness or lack of sufficient rest can hinder the body’s natural detoxification processes, leading to impurities in the blood.
Underlying Medical Conditions:
Certain diseases or conditions, such as liver disorders, infections, or inflammations, can directly or indirectly affect the balance and health of the blood.
It’s essential to recognize the signs of imbalance early and take corrective measures. Ensuring a balanced lifestyle, diet, and emotional state can significantly help maintain the harmony of Rakta Dhatu, thereby promoting overall health and well-being.
Diseases caused by imbalance of Rakta dhatu or blood (increase or decrease of rakta dhatu)
Rakta dhatu can get imbalanced from 3 doshas (vata, pitta, kapha). When it gets vitiated various diseases surface. This is explained in ayurveda as follows.
“Raktam visarpa pleeha vidradheen kushta vaatasra pittasra gulmopa kusa kaamalaa vyangaagni naasha sammoha raktatwam netra mootrata”
Visarpa or herpes
This is caused due to vitiation of rakta. This can be herpes zoster or Genital Herpes or Oral herpes (HSV1 and HSV2)
Vidradhi – abscess
The root cause for Vidradhi or abscess is vitiation or imbalance of rakta dhatu due to tridoshas. This leads to pain, swelling and formation of pus.
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