Published Paper Details:

- It was Ayurveda of ancient India that established the modern concepts of surgery. From Sushruta Samhita, it is known that thousands of years ago very skillful methods of surgery were practiced. There are several surgical and Para surgical procedures mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts which are practiced today by making few technical innovations. Among these one such para surgical procedure is Raktamokshana (bloodletting). Vitiation of Rakta leads to manifestation of varied pathological entities. Rakta and Pitta doshas cause various disorders that cannot be cured by Shamanaushadi wherein a procedure Raktamokshana plays an important role, it is widely indicated in most of the blood borne diseases, poisoning, and skin disorders. It is an accredited application of Ayurveda as well as few other ancient traditional practices. Sira Vedhana, Sringa Avacharana, Alabu Aavacharana, Jalauka Avacharana, Prachhana Karma, Suchi Avacharana and Ghati Yantra Avacharana were approaches planned for bloodletting. Leech therapy, Venesection, Cupping therapy which have gained popularity today is modifications with different technical applications in Raktamokshana. Currently, Most of the Ayurvedic practitioners are performing Raktamokshana therapy. However, there are various practical concerns related to safe practice of Raktamokshana. Hence skillful and safe practice of bloodletting therapy is the need of the hour. Various bloodletting procedures are discussed here without compromising the basic principles.