Rakta Moksha, also called bloodletting, is a traditional Ayurvedic treatment method for the removal or displacement of impure blood from the affected body part. Rakta Moksha therapy is also regarded as one of the five ama elimination procedures in Panchakarma.

Rakta dhatu is one of the seven dhatus or bodily tissues. When the Rakta dhatu is healthy, it enhances the individual’s complexion and enables the proper nourishment of the muscles and other tissues. In its vitiated state, it leads to several diseases like mukhapaka (oral ulcers), raktapitta (epistaxis), vaivarnya (discoloration of skin), kushta (skin diseases), gulma (tumor), etc. Some of the factors that produce toxins in blood, according to Ayurveda, are:

• Excessive consumption of salt, sour, unctuous, and heavy foods
• Alcohol intake
• Overeating
• Sleeping immediately after meals
• Excessive exposure to sun or heat
• Stress

By letting out the blood through Rakta Moksha Ayurveda therapy, all the problems caused due to vitiated blood can be eliminated. It can be performed along with other therapies like Virechana, Vamana, Nasya, and Basti to balance the doshas as well as the energies that control the biological functions in the body.

Rakta Moksha Procedure

There are two categories in the way the Rakta Moksha treatment is performed.

Shastra Visravana

Shastra Visravana therapy is performed using metal instruments. In this therapy, the blood is let out through two procedures:

• Siravyadha (puncturing the vein)
• Pracchana (creating several incisions over the skin)

Anushastra Visravana

The therapies in Anushastra Visravana are performed without using metal instruments. They are of four types:

• Jalouka Vacharana: Application of jalauka or leeches are preferred in cases of vitiated Pitta doshas in blood.
• Alabu: Due to the bitter, dry, and pungent nature of calabash gourd, it is useful for bloodletting in Kapha dosha vitiation. This procedure involves making multiple incisions on the skin and then extinguishing an ignited wick over the affected area to create a vacuum that drains the blood out.
• Shrunga Vacharana: Here, the Shrunga or horn of a cow is used to bring out blood in Vata dosha vitiation.
• Ghati Yantra: The method of extracting blood is similar to Alabu therapy, but it uses a pot instead of the gourd.

Indications

• Leukoderma
• Psoriasis
• Leprosy
• Eczema
• Urticaria
• Hives
• Varicose veins
• Enlarged liver or spleen
• Acute appendicitis
• Trigeminal Neuralgia

Contraindications

• Rakta Moksha is contraindicated for the following
• Young children
• Old age
• Pregnancy
• Menstruation
• Anemia
• Jaundice
• Tuberculosis
• Diabetes

Rakta Moksha Benefits

• Expels out disease-causing vitiated blood from the body
• Prevent tumors and edema
• Helps to balance Pitta dosha aggravation
• Beneficial in bleeding disorders
• Prevents allergies and repeated hives
• Helps to manage high blood pressure and arthritis
• Treats chronic diseases, such as psoriasis

If you want to learn more about Rakta Moksha therapy, please get in touch with us today. Govardhan Ecovillage is a popular wellness retreat in India, offering a range of Ayurvedic treatments and therapies. We are committed to helping people live better, healthier, and happier life. Contact us to know more.