A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF SARA PARIKSHA IN AYURVEDA WITH MODERN PHYSIOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL CORRELATION

Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, focuses on the preservation of health and prevention of disease through a holistic understanding of the human body and its functional components. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe several diagnostic approaches for proper assessment of an individual, among which Dashavidha Aatura Pariksha is considered an important and systematics tenfold method for patient examination. One of the key components of this examination is Sara Pariksha, which is primarily used to evatuate the qualitative excellence of body tissues (Dhatus) and to determine the overall strength (Bala) and vitality of an individual. In ayurvedic literature, Sara is describe as ―Vishuddhatara Dhatu‖ meaning the purest and most refined essence of the body tissues, indicating their optimal nourishment and functional capacity. According to classical descriptions, eight types of Sara are recognized: Rasa Sara, Rakta Sara, Mamsa Sara, Meda Sara, Asthi Sara, Majja Sara, Shukra Sara, and Satva Sara. Each type is characterised by distinct physical and psychological attributes that reflect the functional excellence, stability, and proper nourishment of the corresponding Dhatu. The assessment of these characteristics provides valuable information regarding the structural integrity, physiological efficiency, and mental stability of an individual. Individuals possessing superior Sara generally demonstrate better tissue quality, improved vitality, and enhanced resistance to disease. Sara Pariksha also plays a crucial role in determining Bala pramana, which enables the physician to assess the strength and functional status of the body tissues. This evaluation helps in understanding the overall physiological condition, psychological state, and susceptibility to disease. Furthermore, the assessment of Dhatu Sarata assists physicians in clinical decision- making by guiding the selection of appropriate therapeutic interventions such as Shodhana and Shamana therapies and determining suitable medicine and their dosage. Thus, Sara Pariksha serves as an essential diagnostic tool in Ayurvedic practice for evaluating tissue excellence and supporting effective and individualized healthcare management.