AYURVEDIC CONCEPT OF AVEDHYA SIRA; CLINICAL AND ANATOMICAL PERSPECTIVES IN CONTEXT TO INJURY

Ayurvedic scriptures explain human anatomy comprehensively as well as the anatomical partition of Sira. Sushruta Acharya elucidated the term "Sira" in Sharira Sthana while the term "Saranat Sira" is mentioned in Sutra Sthana, which refers to the vessels through which blood flows through the process of Sarana Kriya. Sira are classified into four categories i.e. Aruna Sira, Sweta Sira, Lohita Sira and Neela Sira which correspond to the three Doshas as well as Rakta. Based on the criteria of suitability for venesection (Siravyadha), Sira can also be divided into two categories, i.e. Vedhya Sira and Avedhya Sira. According to Sushruta Acharya, there are 700 Sira found in human body out of which 602 Sira are really Vedhya and 98 Sira are Avedhya. Though Vedhya Sira can be punctured for bloodletting purpose, puncturing Avedhya Sira can cause serious or even fatal complications. Since Siravyadha is indicated in the treatment of many disorders, therefore understanding of Avedhya Sira is essential in order to perform Siravyadha safely. Present article explains the clinical and anatomical importance of Avedhya Sira, also discusses modern correlation of these concepts.