Abstract

ROLE OF MANOVAHA SROTAS IN MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHOSOMATIC DISORDERS: CLASSICAL INSIGHTS AND CONTEMPORARY RELEVANCE

*Dr. Krushna Ashok Choudhari, Dr. Basant Kumar Thakur

Abstract

Manovaha Srotas, the channel system of Ayurveda dedicated to the transmission and nourishment of Manas (mind), occupies a central place in the classical understanding of psychological and psychosomatic disease. Originating from Hridaya and coursing through the Dasha Dhamani, this srotas integrates emotional, cognitive and sensory function, and its vitiation (Srotodushti) is implicated in Manas Roga such as Unmada and Apasmara, as well as in a wide spectrum of disorders described as Sharira-Mano-Adhishthana Vyadhi. This perspective revisits the classical descriptions of Manovaha Srotas found in the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya, examining its structural correlates, the Triguna (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) framework of mental constitution, and the threefold aetiology comprising Asatmendriyartha Samyoga, Prajnaparadha and Parinama. These classical formulations are juxtaposed against emerging biomedical evidence, including the gut-brain (vagal) axis, psychoneuroimmunology and validated psychometric instruments built on the Triguna construct, to highlight areas of conceptual convergence. Given the substantial and rising global burden of mental and psychosomatic illness, this article argues that Manovaha Srotas offers a clinically meaningful, integrative framework capable of informing both the assessment of Manasika Prakriti and management through Sattvavajaya Chikitsa, Achara Rasayana and Yoga. Aligning classical Ayurvedic physiology with contemporary neuroscience may enrich holistic, patient-centred approaches to mental healthcare.

Keywords: Manovaha Srotas, Manas Roga, Psychosomatic Disorders, Triguna, Sattvavajaya Chikitsa, Mental Health.