Vatarakta : An Ayurvedic classical literature review

Abstract

The statement “The inequalities of basic constituents in the body are the root cause for different diseases” is the fundamental principle of the Ayurveda, which indicate the control of different fundamental elements in the body (Sharira) is the sign of good health and free from diseases. Ayurvedic remedies and therapies are found very effective and useful to sustain the equilibrium of these fundamental elements in the body. Vatarakta is a chronic joint and body pain disease accompanied by pain, stiffness, swelling over joints which involve vitiated Vatadosha as well as Raktadhatu. Aggravated Vata is blocked by vitiated Rakta, which leads to further aggravation of Vata Dosha. Vatarakta have two Avasthas i.e., Uttana and Gambhira. Uttana Vatrakta affects Twacha and Mansadhatu whereas Gambhira mainly affects Asthi, Majjadi Gambhira Dhatu. Nidan Panchak is one of the finest and important method of diagnosing disease, its causes & prognosis. Nidan Panchak consists of 5 components viz. Nidan, Purvarupa, Rupa, Upshaya & Samprapti. Every component of Nidan Panchak helps the physician for better understanding of disease growth & treating the disease at an earliest possible stage. Nidana Panchak is the main and important diagnostic tools in Ayurveda. The present life style not only disturb the healthy Aahar but Vihara also. Sedentary lifestyle along with mental stress, consumption of nonveg and highly protein diet, excessive alcohol intake are some of the causing factors which origins acute exacerbation of Vatarakta. The etiological factors responsible for Gouty arthritis, pathology and clinical features are quite similar to Vatarakta.