RANJAK PITTA AND ITS AFFILIATES IN MODERN PERSPECTIVE: A REVIEW

Abstract

Science of Ayurveda is based on tridosha theory. Pitta, one among three doshas plays a major role in digestion and metabolism. Pitta dosha is of five types namely pachaka, ranjaka, alochaka, bhrajaka, and sadhaka pitta. Function of ranjaka pitta is to provide red coloration to rakta dhatu. Yakrit (liver), pleeha (spleen) and amashaya (stomach) are the sites of ranjaka pitta mentioned in ancient literature. Raktagni and ranjaka pitta has an important role in the formation of rakta dhatu. Sushrut has mentioned about sarakta meda present inside the alpasthi (all bones except large bones) which is equivalent to red bone marrow and responsible for erythropoiesis. In modern physiology it is described that Liver, Spleen and Bone marrow are the site for erythropoiesis. Liver stores important factors like vitamin B12, Folic acid, Iron. Red pulp of the spleen is a special reservoir of concentrated red blood cells. Intrinsic factor is a substance which is essential for absorption of vitamin B12 in the ileum. It is secreted by the parietal cell of stomach. Erythropoietin, Growth inducers, Differentiation inducers, epinephrine, Norepinephrine, prostaglandin has an important role in erythropoiesis. In this article we are intended to identify the entities of modern medical sciences that have resemblance with Ranjaka pitta on the basis of its physiological functions. For this study, the basic materials have been collected from the Ayurvedic classics with the available commentaries, as well as text books of modern medical science for better understanding of the concept and its comparison with contemporary science.