Abstract

A REVIEW ARTICLE ON RAKTAKSHAYA DUE TO SANTARPANJANYA AND APTARPANJANYA PANDUROGA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO IRON DEFICIENCY ANAEMIA

Dr. Firoj Kumar*, Dr. Gitanjali Sasmal, Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Abstract

Raktakshaya, the depletion or qualitative deterioration of Rakta Dhatu, is a significant pathological condition described in Ayurvedic classics. It is a key manifestation of Pandu Roga, which clinically parallels iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) in modern medicine. According to Ayurvedic principles, Raktakshaya may occur due to either Santarpanajanya (overnourishment) or Apatarpanajanya (under-nourishment) causes, each leading to distinct doshic imbalances. Santarpana contributes to Kapha-dominance and obstructs the normal dhatu-pachana (tissue metabolism), while Apatarpana results in weakened Agni and poor dhatu-nourishment, particularly affecting Rakta Dhatu. By comparing classical Ayurvedic texts with current scientific literature. In Ayurvedic literature, Raktakshaya refers to the deficiency or qualitative deterioration of Rakta Dhatu (blood tissue), resulting in systemic imbalances. One of the most common manifestations of Raktakshaya is Pandu Roga, which is broadly correlated with anaemia in modern medicine. These are in partial clinical agreement with symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA), such as pallor, fatigue, and poor appetite.

Keywords: Raktakshaya, Iron Deficiency Anaemia, Rakta Dhatu, Santarpanjanya & Aptarpanjanya pandu, pandu roga.