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  2. Volume 1 I Issue 3 [July To September]
  3. ROLE OF SROTAS (BODY CHANNELS) IN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF SYSTEMIC DISORDERS: AN AYURVEDIC AND BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVE
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Dr. Abhay Gandhi

ROLE OF SROTAS (BODY CHANNELS) IN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF SYSTEMIC DISORDERS: AN AYURVEDIC AND BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVE

Introduction: Ayurveda describes Srotas as channels or pathways responsible for the transport of nutrients, metabolic products, and bio-energetic functions. Any derangement of these channels leads to systemic disorders, which can be compared to pathological changes in circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, and microvascular systems. Understanding the role of Srotas provides insight into integrative approaches for disease prevention and management. Methods: Literature was reviewed from classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya), commentaries, and modern biomedical sources. Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched (2000–2024) with keywords “Srotas,” “Ayurveda,” “pathophysiology,” and “systemic disorders.” Studies included conceptual analyses, experimental research, and clinical trials. Exclusion criteria were articles lacking scientific rigor or duplication. Results: Review findings indicate that the obstruction (srotorodha), vitiation (srotodusti), and depletion (srotokshaya) of Srotas correspond to modern pathologies like atherosclerosis, COPD, inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic syndrome, and chronic kidney disease. The Ayurvedic concept of Prana Vaha Srotas relates to respiratory and circulatory functions, Anna Vaha Srotas to gastrointestinal health, and Mutra Vaha Srotas to renal physiology. Contemporary research demonstrates parallels between microcirculation, lymphatic drainage, and Srotas functioning. Preventive and therapeutic modalities like Panchakarma, Rasayana therapy, and dietary regulations have shown effectiveness in restoring Srotas health. Discussion: Srotas theory provides a holistic framework for systemic pathophysiology. The integration of Ayurvedic principles with modern biomedical research highlights the role of detoxification, nutrition, and metabolism in maintaining systemic health. However, gaps remain in correlating specific Srotas with histological and molecular structures. Conclusion: Understanding the role of Srotas offers valuable insights into the pathophysiology of systemic disorders. Bridging Ayurvedic wisdom with modern evidence may enhance integrative medicine approaches for chronic diseases.

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Pathophysiology, Srotas, Systemic Disorders, Tridosha