"INTERSTITIUM AND LASIKA: AN INTEGRATIVE ANATOMICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE"

Ayurveda describes Lasika, a viscous fluid located between Tvak (skin) and Māṃsa (muscle), classified as an Upadhātu of Rasa Dhātu.[3] Lasikā plays a crucial role in tissue lubrication, nourishment, immune defense, and the pathogenesis of diseases such as Kuṣṭha and Śotha.[4] Parallel to this modern discovery, The interstitium has recently been proposed as a distinct anatomical entity characterized by a widespread network of fluid-filled spaces supported by collagen and elastin fibers.[1] Once regarded merely as passive connective tissue, it is now recognized for its active roles in mechanical cushioning, fluid transport, immune surveillance, tissue repair, and disease propagation.[2] This integrative review correlates modern anatomical findings on the interstitium with classical Ayurvedic descriptions of Lasikā.[4] The convergence of these concepts highlights a shared understanding of interstitial fluid dynamics and underscores the relevance of integrative anatomy in explaining inflammation, edema, immune dysfunction, and chronic disease.