Raktarsha and its Management - A Critical Review

Raktarsha is considered as one of the Ashta Mahagada having prognosis of Kashtya Sadhya. In modern science, it is co-related with bleeding piles, where chronic venous engorgement of rectal veins lead to inflammation and bleeding. Non-vegetarian persons are more prone to this disease; person who consumes high fiber diet and green vegetables are usually not affected by this disease. It is common in both men and women. According to recent statistics 50% of the populations have suffered from this disease.The formation of Mamsankura occurs in Raktarsha looks like Gunjaphala and Vidhrumsadrishya. Raktasrava, Shoola, Vibanda, Kandu and Daha are the characteristic features. Acharya Sushruta has adopted fourfold treatment principles i.e., Bheshaja, Kshara, Agni and Shastrakarma. Acharya Charaka mentioned Shodhana Karma such as Vamana, Virechana and Basti Karma. Acharya Vagbhata advices local bloodletting in Arsha in which Dushita Rakta is present. Despite significant advancements in the field of modern surgery, treatment results are insufficient. In these circumstances, Ayurveda is preferred because it offers superior treatment for Raktarsha. Therefore, it appears necessary to review the specifics of the Ayurvedic perspective on Raktarsha.