Marma: An Ayurvedic Review

Marma are vital anatomical points described in Ayurveda, where Prana (life force) is predominantly situated. Injury to these points may result in pain, deformity, disability, or even death. The science of Marma plays a crucial role in Shalya Tantra, with significant relevance in surgery, traumatology, yoga, physiotherapy, and Marma therapy. Classical Ayurvedic texts enumerate 107 Marma, classified on the basis of structure, location, and the effect of injury. This review article compiles classical Ayurvedic references related to Marma, explains their classifications, and correlates them with modern anatomical concepts to highlight their clinical and therapeutic importance.