DOSHA UTKLESHA AND KOSTHA GATI IN PANCHAKARMA: A CRITICAL REVIEW

Panchakarma constitutes the principal bio-purificatory modality in Ayurveda aimed at the elimination of vitiated Doshas from the body. The effectiveness of Shodhana therapy is largely dependent on the proper execution of Purvakarma, particularly the processes of Dosha Utklesha and Kostha Gati. Dosha Utklesha denotes the excitation, liquefaction, and mobilization of morbid Doshas from peripheral tissues, whereas Kostha Gati refers to their directed movement towards the gastrointestinal tract to facilitate elimination. Classical Ayurvedic texts emphasize that inadequate Utklesha or improper Kostha Gati may lead to incomplete Shodhana or therapeutic complications. Despite their fundamental importance, these concepts are seldom discussed as independent analytical subjects in contemporary literature. The present review critically evaluates the classical descriptions of Dosha Utklesha and Kostha Gati, the contributory role of Snehana and Swedana, and their clinical relevance in Panchakarma practice.