Abstract

PHYSIOLOGICAL STUDY OF MAMSADHATU –A REVIEW ARTICLE

*Dr. Savita Hiremath, Dr. Noor Fathima and Dr. Pallavi Y. C.

ABSTRACT

In Ayurvedic literature, the conglomerations of Dosha, dhatu and mala are the basis of sharira. Dhatu’s perform the function of holding together the bodily elements. There are seven dhatu’s(tissues) in the body. Mamsa (muscle tissue) is considered as one among them. This is unanimously accepted by all Ayurvedic Scholars. The word Mamsa is derived from the Sanskrit word "Man Mane” which means a measurable quantity and also literally means flesh. It is also called as Pishit, Taras, Palal, raktateja and Medashruta, Kravyamand Aamisha. It helps in the formation of Medadhatu in the in the body. Mamsavaha -Srotas (Channels) plays of an important role in metabolism of mamsa dhatu whose principal organs are Snayu (tendons), twacha (skin) and Raktavahidhamani. Mamsadhara Kala (sheath like structure which covers muscle) also plays a role in the formation and storage of the mamsadhatu. Mamsa dhatu has Pruthvi mahabhuta in its dominance, Vasa (omentum) and twacha (skin & its layers) as its upadhatu (accessory tissues). Kha mala (mala which accumulates in the ear canal, nasalcanal, oral cavity and vagina) is the mala (waste product) of mamasadhatu. Thewell-built musculature of a person indicates good and proper nourishment of the individual. The excellence of a mamsadhatu seen in such a person is resembled by mamsasarapurusha with its specific symptoms. Any kind of deviation in mamsa (vruddhi or kshaya) leads to pathogenesis. Hence it is an important entity for sustenance of life.

Keywords: Mamsadhatu, Muscle tissue, Mamsavahasrotas, Mamsadhatwagni.