SIRA, DHAMANI AND SROTAS: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THEIR DISTINCT IDENTITY WITH CONTEMPORARY ANATOMICAL CORRELATION

Sira, Dhamani and Srotas occupy an important place in Ayurvedic Rachana Shareera. All three are associated with Vahana and movement of different substances within the Shareera, which has resulted in considerable discussion regarding their individual identity and possible contemporary anatomical correlations. A commonly used explanation equates Dhamani with arteries, Sira with veins and Srotas with channels or capillaries. Although useful for introductory understanding, this approach does not satisfactorily explain the complete classical description. Acharya Charaka differentiates these terms through their characteristic activities - Dhmana, Sarana and Sravana. Acharya Sushruta gives detailed accounts of Sira Sankhya, Dhamani Vibhaga and their distribution, and specifically discusses the distinction between Sira, Dhamani and Srotas. The present literary review analyses their classical descriptions with emphasis on Nirukti, Sankhya, Mula, Prasara, Karma and clinical significance, followed by cautious correlation with contemporary vascular anatomy, microcirculation, lymphatics, ducts and other transport pathways. The review suggests that Dhamani has a close functional resemblance to pulsatile distributing pathways, Sira has a strong vascular and conducting association, while Srotas is a broader system-oriented concept concerned with transport of Prana, Anna, Udaka, Dhatu-poshaka amsha and Mala. These correlations are contextual and should not replace the original Ayurvedic concepts.