Understanding Dyslipidemia as a disease of Rasavaha Srotas

Nirmala Joshi; Madhavi Goswami

doi:10.21760/jaims.10.8.19

Nirmala Joshi Ph.D. Scholar, P.G. Department of Rachana Sharir, Uttarakhand Ayurved University, Rishikul Campus, Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
Madhavi Goswami Former Registrar U.A.U., Professor, P.G. Department of Rachana Sharir, Uttarakhand Ayurved University, Rishikul Campus, Haridwar, Uttarakhand.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21760/jaims.10.8.19

Keywords: Rasavaha Srotas, Dyslipidemia, Agnidushti, Āma, Doṣa, Srotodushti

Abstract

Background: Dyslipidaemia, a metabolic disorder characterized by abnormal lipid profiles, is a key risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. In Āyurveda, such metabolic imbalances are primarily associated with the Rasavaha Srotas, the bodily channel system responsible for the transportation and transformation of Rasa Dhātu. This concept offers a unique pathophysiological insight linking lipid disorders with Doṣa-Duṣṭi and Srotodushti. Aim: To explore dyslipidemia through the lens of Rasavaha Srotas dysfunction and establish a conceptual correlation between modern lipid disorders and Āyurvedic pathophysiology. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review of classical Āyurvedic texts was undertaken to analyze the concept of Rasavaha Srotas, its physiological role, and pathological manifestations. Parallel review of contemporary scientific literature on dyslipidemia was performed to identify shared pathophysiological grounds. Comparative evaluation was done to correlate Doṣic involvement, Āma formation, and Srotorodha with lipid metabolism abnormalities. Observations and Results: Dyslipidemia shares clinical resemblance with conditions involving Kapha and Medo Doṣa aggravation, Āma production, and Srotorodha in the Rasavaha and Medovaha Srotas. Improper Agnibala, especially of Rasāgni and Medodhatvāgni, leads to impaired transformation and assimilation of Rasa Dhātu, culminating in lipid imbalance. Repeated episodes of faulty Ahāra, Vihāra, and sedentary lifestyle contribute to Rasavaha Srotodushti, which parallels the etiology and pathology of dyslipidaemia in biomedicine. Discussion: Understanding dyslipidemia as a disease of Rasavaha Srotas provides a holistic model emphasizing early intervention through Dīpanīya, Pācana, Āmapācana, and Srotoshodhana therapies. Preventive approaches based on Ahāra-Vihāra regulation, Ritu-anukula Carya, and Dinacarya offer sustainable solutions for dyslipidemia management, bridging traditional wisdom with modern therapeutic goals. Conclusion: Dyslipidemia can be understood as a manifestation of Rasavaha Srotodushti due to Doṣa imbalance, impaired Agnibala, and lifestyle errors. Integrative understanding of this metabolic condition through Āyurvedic principles enhances diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for sustainable health care delivery.

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