REINTERPRETING YAKRUT AS A FUNCTIONAL MICROCIRCULATORY UNIT: AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE OF RAKTAVAHA SROTAS MOOLASTHAN

*Dr. Pratiksha Kakasaheb Kamble, Dr. Pradnya R. Deshpande, Dr. Khushang Vijay More

ABSTRACT

Background- Yakrut (liver) holds a central position in Ayurvedic physiology as a crucial moolasthana (root site) of Raktavaha Srotas, the blood-conducting channels responsible for the formation and circulation of Rakta Dhatu (blood) throughout the body. In classical Ayurvedic texts, particularly the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, Yakrut and Pleeha (spleen) are described as the primary functional centres for hematopoiesis and blood regulation. Modern microcirculation research demonstrates that tissue-level perfusion occurs through sophisticated networks of arterioles, capillaries, venules, and lymphatic ducts, regulated by endothelial cells and pericytes. However, a comprehensive correlation between the Ayurvedic conceptualization of Yakrut as a microcirculatory hub and contemporary understanding of hepatic microvascular function remains under explored. Aim –To reinterpret Yakrut as a functional microcirculatory unit by systematically correlating classical Ayurvedic principles of Raktavaha Srotas physiology with modern biomedical understanding of hepatic microcirculation. Objectives- (1) To analyse the structural and functional characteristics of Yakrut as described in Ayurvedic texts and examining the role of Yakrut in maintaining Raktavaha Srotas integrity and function. (2) To correlate Ayurvedic anatomical physiological concepts with hepatic microvascular dysfunction. (3) To explore anatomical physiological aspect of liver focusing concept of moolasthan of Raktavaha srotas. Material and Methods-A comprehensive narrative review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya along with commentaries) and contemporary biomedical literature. Electronic databases. Studies demonstrating correlations between traditional and modern medical concepts were prioritized. Results- Yakrut functions as a microcirculatory centre integrating blood formation, vascular regulation, and metabolism. Along with Pleeha, it supports Rakta production via Ranjaka Pitta, similar to hepatic roles in iron balance. As the root of Raktavaha Srotas, it maintains microvascular flow and exchange. Dysfunction leads to Srotorodha, causing hypoxia and liver-related disorders, while Ayurvedic therapies help restore its function. Discussion: The Ayurvedic concept of Yakrut as a microcirculatory unit offers a holistic view of liver function, integrating metabolism, circulation, and immune roles. Raktavaha Srotas reflects a dynamic system rather than a static structure, aligning with modern ideas of endothelial and vascular regulation. The idea of Srotorodha parallels mechanisms like vascular resistance and endothelial dysfunction seen in liver diseases. This integrative model helps explain how hepatic disorders lead to systemic metabolic and circulatory disturbances. Conclusion: Yakrut can be understood as a key regulator of both hepatic and systemic microcirculation within the Raktavaha Srotas. Its Ayurvedic description unifies structural and functional aspects now divided in modern medicine. Reinterpreting it through microcirculatory physiology bridges traditional and contemporary knowledge. This approach may guide future integrative research and improve therapeutic strategies for liver diseases.

Keywords: Microcirculation, Raktavaha Srotas, Ranjaka Pitta, Srotorodha, Yakrut.