Raktamokshana therapy

(Blood-letting therapy)

Raktamokshana is a highly specialized and essential minor surgical procedure in Ayurveda. The term translates literally to ‘blood purification’ or ‘bloodletting’ (‘Rakta’ means blood, and ‘Mokshana’ means release or removal). This therapeutic measure is designed to remove vitiated (impure) blood from the body, thereby cleansing the circulatory system and balancing the Pitta Dosha, which is primarily associated with blood (Rakta Dhatu) in Ayurveda. Raktamokshana is considered one of the five major detoxification procedures of Panchakarma, specifically targeting blood-borne toxins and inflammations.

How Raktamokshana therapy Works?

The primary mechanism is the controlled removal of a small quantity of impure or stagnant blood from the body. Raktamokshana is performed using various techniques, each suited for different conditions and locations of impurity. By cleansing the body’s life-sustaining fluid, Ayurveda believes Raktamokshana is a direct and effective way to treat diseases rooted in circulatory, inflammatory, or toxic imbalances.

Raktamokshana therapy Procedure

Raktamokshana is a precise procedure performed by a qualified Ayurvedic physician. The method is chosen based on the patient’s condition, the severity of the ailment, and the specific site of the vitiated blood.

The general steps involved are:

Patient Assessment: A thorough diagnosis is conducted to confirm the presence of Rakta Dushti (impure blood) and determine the most suitable Raktamokshana method.

Preparation: The patient may undergo preparatory procedures like Snehana (oleation) and Swedana (fomentation) on the affected area to mobilize toxins. The selected site is cleaned and sterilized.

Method Application: The chosen method is meticulously applied to draw out the impure blood. This is done with extreme care to avoid excessive blood loss. The procedure is typically quick and localized.

Post-treatment Care: The area is cleaned, and a dressing is applied. Bandaging and anti-inflammatory/hemostatic herbal pastes are often used to promote healing and stop minor bleeding. The patient is advised to follow specific dietary restrictions (avoiding heavy, sour, and excessively spicy foods) and ensure adequate rest to support the body’s recovery.
Raktamokshana therapy procedure at Shree Ayurvedic Multispeciality Hospital- step-by-step blood cleansing treatment in Chennai

Types of Raktamokshana therapy

Raktamokshana is broadly classified into two main categories: Shastra Visravana (using instruments/incision) and Anushastra Visravana (non-instrumental or minor techniques). 

1. Anushastra Visravana (Non-Instrumental Methods) 

These methods are often employed for localized conditions or when the vitiated blood is superficial. 

  • Jalaukavacharana (Leech Therapy): The most popular method. Medicinal leeches are applied to the affected area. Leeches suck out only the ‘vitiated blood’ due to their unique properties and secrete an anticoagulant and an anesthetic substance, making the procedure painless and highly effective for localized inflammation, rashes, and abscesses. 
  • Shrunga (Horn): A hollow horn is used to create a negative pressure (suction) over the affected site, pulling the impure blood to the surface. It is more suitable for Vata-dominant vitiated blood. 
  • Alabu (Gourd): Similar to Shrunga, but a hollow gourd is used. Heat may be applied inside the gourd before application to create a stronger vacuum. This is preferred for Kapha-dominant vitiated blood. 

2.Shastra Visravana (Instrumental/Incisional Methods) 

These methods are used when the vitiated blood is deeper, or a larger amount needs to be expelled. 

  • Pracchana (Scarification/Multiple Incisions): Superficial, multiple, small incisions (like scratching) are made with a sterile surgical blade (Shastra) over the affected area to drain the localized vitiated blood. This is effective for localized pain and swelling. 
  • Siravyadha (Venesection): A controlled puncture is made into a specific vein (Sira) using a sterile needle or trocar to draw out blood. This is a systemic procedure used for more generalized Rakta Dushti (blood vitiation) or deep-seated conditions like severe gout or systemic arthritis.

Benefits Of Raktamokshana therapy

Heart icon with circular arrows representing detoxification benefits of Raktamokshana Therapy, removing toxins from the blood for improved overall health

Detoxification

Helps to remove toxins from the blood, improving overall health.
Two blood drops icon with circular arrows representing improved circulation benefits of Raktamokshana Therapy, enhancing oxygen delivery to tissues

Improved Circulation

Stimulates blood flow, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues.
Lower leg icon with circular arrows representing inflammation reduction benefits of Raktamokshana Therapy, helping manage arthritis, joint pain

Reduces Inflammation

Effective in managing conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and skin disorders.
Shield icon with medical cross representing immunity boosting benefits of Raktamokshana Therapy, strengthening the body’s ability by purifying the blood.

Boosts Immunity

Strengthens the body’s ability to fight infections by purifying the blood.
Human head icon with lotus symbol and circular arrows representing pain relief benefits of Raktamokshana Therapy, providing relief from chronic pain

Pain Relief

Provides relief from chronic pain conditions, especially those related to inflammation.
Hexagonal cells icon with circular arrows representing skin health benefits of Raktamokshana Therapy, improving skin tone and texture

Skin Health

Improves skin tone and texture by removing accumulated impurities from the blood.

Duration For The Raktamokshana therapy

The duration of Rakthamokshana varies based on the condition and  lasts between 30 to 45 minutes, with the number of sessions determined by the Ayurvedic practitioner. Treatment may be done once a week or as recommended for specific conditions.

Whom Raktamokshana therapy Is
Recommended For?

Key Conditions Treated
With Raktamokshana therapy

Raktamokshana is highly revered for its potent cleansing action, particularly its ability to balance the Pitta Dosha.

Key conditions treated with Raktamokshana include:

  • Skin Diseases: Highly effective for chronic skin ailments such as eczema, psoriasis, urticaria (hives), boils (abscesses), acne, and persistent rashes that are often linked to Rakta Dushti.
  • Musculoskeletal Pain: Used for conditions like gout (Vatarakta), arthritis, and localized inflammatory pain where blood stagnation contributes to the problem.
  • Inflammatory Conditions: Helps reduce localized swelling, burning sensation, and inflammation, particularly in cases of cellulitis and non-healing ulcers.
  • Varicose Veins: Leech therapy (Jalaukavacharana) can be beneficial in managing and reducing the symptoms of uncomplicated varicose veins.
  • Headaches: Certain types of headaches and migraines associated with Pitta aggravation can be relieved by Raktamokshana.
Contraindication of Raktamokshana includes the following cases: Patients with severe fatigue, emaciation, or a very low hemoglobin count, individuals with bleeding disorders (hemophilia, thrombocytopenia, or those on strong blood thinners (anticoagulants)), pregnancy women, very young or very elderly patients due to sensitivity and lower resilience, patients with systemic conditions (severe edema, significant cardiac issues, or deep-seated chronic systemic illnesses) and individuals who have recently undergone other major purification (Panchakarma) procedures.

Advantages of Raktamokshana therapy

Post-Treatment Care

The post-care treatment of Rakthamokshana includes the following:
Avoid exposing the treated area to direct sunlight or cold environments.
Refrain from vigorous physical activities immediately after the treatment.
Drink plenty of fluids to help the body flush out toxins.
Follow a light, nutritious diet to support recovery and healing.

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I took treatment in this Hospital for knee pain and blood circulation in left foot from 5th Sept to 16th Sept 2024.
I took a consultation with Dr. Sri Krishna, a Competent, Calm, and Cool person. Above all 6th Generation doctor of this ancient hospital! There is a say that, when you meet your doctor, half of your ailments will disappear, actually it happened with me! He advised me to take 10 days of external treatment like Abhyanga, Janu Basti.. along with oral medicines. It was a very pleasant and rejuvenating experience for me! What I observed here is all the treatment goes in a systematic way. ... More

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Very kind and caring service by all the doctors and staff of the hospital. I have been undergoing treatment for varicose veins, which I includes leach therapy, application of oils, oral tablets etc. I find considerable improvement and hope to recover soon. The hospital premises in West Mambalam is maintained very neat and clean. Pls. keep up the good work / service to the patients.

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    Why Choose Shree Ayurvedic?

    • At Shree Ayurvedic, we provide a safe, effective, and holistic approach to Raktha mokshana therapy.  
    • Our trained and experienced practitioners ensure that the therapy is carried out in a clean, sterile environment with medical-grade leeches for maximum safety and efficacy.  
    • We offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific health needs and ensure your comfort throughout the process.

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    FAQs

    Got queries? We’re here to help you and we’ve got you covered.

    • Is Rakthamokshana safe for everyone?
      No, Rakhtamokshana is not safe for everyone. This includes people with weakness, anemia, elderly, bleeding disorder, hypotension, infection, malnutrition, severe illness, pregnancy, and weak immunity.
    • Does it hurt to undergo Rakthamokshana?
      While Rakthamokshana is not painful, some might feel mild discomfort. It is a safe procedure and is performed with great care under the supervision of trained Ayurvedic doctors.
    • Are there any known side effects or risks of bloodletting therapy?
      While generally safe, person undergoing Rakthamokshana might experience mild bruising and swelling at the treatment site. If not done by qualified Ayurvedic practitioners, it leads to certain complications.

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