RAKTAMOKSHAN
Rakta Mokshan or Artificial Bloodletting was included in the Panchkarma therapy by Acharya Sushruta.
Rakta Mokshan is essentially extracting blood from specific blood vessels (veins), mentioned for specific chronic diseases. In past, it was done by using purified and sterilized horns of animals, gourd, by applying leeches or by puncturing veins (Phlebotomy).
At present only latter two methods are followed. However, since it is an invasive procedure, it should be administered by a licensed physician only. Before beginning with the bloodletting therapy, the preparatory procedures such as Abhyanga (external Oleation therapy) and Swedan (local fomentation) are usually carried out on the affected area. Rakta Mokshan is carried out in the cases of Alopecia, Eczema Leucoderma, Psoriasis, Skin Disease, eczema, Thrombosis, Varicose Vein, etc.
Indications
Patients suffering from :
- Chronic edema and inflammations
- Skin disorders
- Gout, tumors, boils, abscesses
- Disorders of liver and spleen
Rakta Mokshana: Preparatory Procedure
Before starting Rakta Mokshana, local fomentation is given. After that, leeches are applied at the desired site of blood letting. (Some times, it is simply extracted out through syringe and needle.)
When the procedure is carried out properly, the leeches leave the site naturally after sucking out all the impure blood, and bleeding ceases spontaneously. There is significant decrease in the symptoms of pain, and inflammation, the severity of the disease is minimized.
Post rakta mokshana process
After completion of the process of Rakta Mokshana, turmeric powder is applied on the site of bloodletting. This acts as hemostyptic, antiseptic and blood purifier.