Raktapitta as a Hemorrhagic Emergency: Classical Ayurvedic Principles of Sadyah Chikitsa.
1Jaimin. B. Chavda and 2Nirav Patel
1,2Department of Rachana Sharir, Parul Institute of Ayurved, Parul University, Vadodara - 391760 (India) Corresponding author details: Dr Jaimin Bahadursinh Chavda Address: A-50, Pranava Bungalows, Madhavpura, behind Bapod police station, Vaikuntth circle, Waghodia road, Vadodara - 391760 (India) Email: chavdajaimin0502@gmail.com Contact: 9265384824
ABSTRACT
Haemorrhage is a critical medical emergency that is characterised by rapid blood loss volume and systemic instability. In Ayurveda, such uncontrolled bleeding is described under the heading of Raktapitta, a disorder caused by aggravated Pitta Dosha leading to Rakta dushti and subsequent srtrava of Rakta. Classical texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, describe emergency principles under Sadyah Chikitsa. A focused textual review of classical Ayurvedic literature was conducted to extract references for the management of acute Raktapitta. Manage like Sheeta Upachara, Rakta-Stambhaka Dravya, Rasa Ausadhi, and surgical procedures such as Sandhana and Dahana were described. Standard adult dosage (Matra) was compiled from traditional pharmacological sources. Emergency management is done with cooling therapy (Sheeta Karma), induction of haemostasis (Rakta-Stambhana), and preservation of vitality (Oja Rakshana). Formulations such as Vasa Swarasa (10–20 ml), Lodhra Churna (3–6 g), and Praval Pishti (125–250 mg) give in acute bleeding. Surgical management described by Sushruta shows conceptual similarity to modern ligation and cauterisation techniques. The classical Ayurvedic framework recommends a pathogenesis-oriented approach to haemorrhage, emphasising Pitta shamana and vascular stabilisation. Although modern resuscitative care is essential in severe cases, these principles may also be relevant in integrative emergency care.