ROLE OF AYURVEDIC INTERVENTIONS IN RAKTAPITTA (BLEEDING DISORDERS): A SCIENTIFIC REVIEW
Introduction: Raktapitta, a classical disease entity described in Ayurveda, encompasses a group of bleeding disorders characterized by the vitiation of Pitta dosha along with Rakta dhatu. Modern medical parallels can be drawn with conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding, epistaxis, hemorrhagic disorders, and systemic bleeding manifestations. Although contemporary medicine primarily relies on pharmacological agents and surgical interventions for management, Ayurveda provides a holistic understanding of Raktapitta with both preventive and therapeutic dimensions. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya), PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Articles, clinical trials, and review papers published between 2000–2024 were included. The inclusion criteria focused on studies highlighting Ayurvedic formulations, lifestyle interventions, and clinical relevance of Raktapitta management. Results: Evidence from Ayurveda emphasizes the role of herbal interventions (e.g., Amalaki, Yashtimadhu, Kamdudha Ras), Panchakarma therapies (notably Virechana and Raktamokshana), and dietary regulation in controlling bleeding tendencies. Modern studies confirm the hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of several Ayurvedic herbs. Clinical evidence also supports their adjunct role in disorders like idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, peptic ulcer bleeding, and epistaxis. Discussion: Ayurvedic concepts align with modern hematological and gastrointestinal pathophysiology, bridging gaps between traditional and contemporary medicine. However, rigorous randomized controlled trials and mechanistic studies are still limited. Conclusion: Ayurvedic interventions hold promising potential in preventing and managing Raktapitta and related bleeding disorders, offering integrative, safe, and cost-effective strategies.
KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Bleeding disorders, Hemostasis, Raktapitta, Traditional medicine