Panchabhoutika Nature of Rakta Dhatu: A Critical Review

Body is composed of three main components Dosha, Dhatu and Mala. Out of these, Dhatu are body tissues and one of their key functions is dharana karma (to hold everything together). In series seven Dhatu, Rakta Dhatu is at second place and gets derived from Yakrita (liver), Pleeha (spleen) and Raktavahini dhamanya (blood channels). As per Panchabhoutiktva principle everything in the universe is composed of five basic elements called Akash (ether), Vayu (air), Teja (fire), Jala (water), and Prithvi (earth). It is also stated that despite having panchbhutas (basic elements) objects show dominant features of one or two elements. Rakta Dhatu shows dominant features of Teja and Jala Mahabhuta and is also associated with the Pranayatana (energy centers of the body). Flowing through body with help of Vyana vayu it becomes foundation of the living body. Physiological aspects of these aspects are important to understand keeping human health ahead. In general sense, this fluid nourishes all tissues and organs, traveling through the heart and blood vessels and maintaining color, complexion, Mamsa dhatupushti (muscle tissue nourishment), and Jeevana (life force) of living body. This article will thoroughly review the Panchabhoutika nature of Rakta dhatu.