Haemostatic Applications and Vascular Regulation: A Study on Rudhira-srāva-nivartana Sūkta of Atharvaveda

Dr. N. Sridhar
Associate Professor
Division of Yoga-Spirituality
S-VYASA, Deemed-to-be University
Phone: 8220337148
Email ID: drsridharnp@svyasa.edu.in

Abstract

The Rudhira-srāva-nivartana Sūkta of Atharvaveda provides an amalgamation of Vedic therapy and wellness traditions and modern medical concepts of haemostasis and vascular regulation. The Rudhira-srāva-nivartana Sūkta summaries mantra-based therapies intended to manage excessive bleeding from wounds and menstrual flow and dysfunction of blood flow due to ailments like kidney stones. The method of external application of soil chanted with this Sūkta, as described in the Kauśika Sūtra, reflects a functionally practical approach to wound management draws parallel with modern studies affirming that soil can activate coagulation factor XII (FXII), promoting clotting.

Terms such as dhamani, hirā, and sikātāvātī are interpreted as blood vessels, capillary networks, and urinary conduits, respectively demonstrating an elaborate understanding of circulatory and excretory systems. These insights are similar to the current medical knowledge on conditions such as menorrhagia, kidney stones, and urethral blockages.

The Mantra Cikitsā (Mantra Therapy) draws parallels to modern non-invasive technologies like High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), which uses sound energy to coagulate blood and fragment kidney stones. This supports the Vedic principle that sound vibrations possess physiological efficacy, establishing the therapeutic value of chanting.

By bridging Vedic knowledge system with scientific validation, this study presents a convincing argument for integrative medicine. The equivalence between ancient healing practices and modern findings highlights the depth of early Indian medical understanding and encourages future interdisciplinary research that combines traditional knowledge systems with modern medical science.

Keywords

Vedic Therapy & Wellness, Haemostatic Applications, Vascular Regulation, Treating Menorrhagia, Urinary and Vascular Health

Introduction

The Rudhira-srāva-nivartana Sūkta of the Atharvaveda presents an exclusive node between ancient Vedic therapy and modern physiological system, particularly in the field of vascular regulation and haemostatic applications. Explaining the Vedic therapy systems, this Sūkta outlines mantra-based interventions aimed at restoring the normal blood flow and controlling excessive bleeding.

The fourth Anuvāka of the first Kāṇḍa in the Atharvaveda contains five Sūktas. The first Sūkta begins with the mantra “Amūryā…” called as Rudhira-srāva-nivartana Sūkta. This Sūkta describes the therapeutic interventions for hemorrhaging during the menstrual cycle and controlling excessive bleeding caused by wounds and injuries.

The Kauśika Sūtra of the Atharvaveda further explains the method of treatment associated with this Sūkta. It prescribes the therapeutic usage of soil consecrated through the chanting of this mantras Sūkta. Once properly enchanted, this soil is to be applied to the bleeding part of the body, thereby serving as a natural haemostatic agent. The prescription of this practice reflects the spiritual healing traditions, emphasizing the early knowledge of intrinsic healing properties of earth elements along with Mantra chanting. This intersection between Vedic chanting and natural remedies offers valuable insight into ancient Vedic medical systems and their holistic approach to physiological well-being.[1]

The modern scientific research also proves that soil can contribute to haemostasis when activated in wounds. This study explores how coagulation factor XII (FXII) helps in blood clotting when activated by soil in wounds. Normally, FXII is known to be triggered by nonbiological surfaces like silicates, but its role in real-life bleeding situations was unclear. Researchers tested whether soil, which is rich in silicates, could naturally activate FXII and improve blood clotting. [2]

This experiment has proved that soil helped human and mouse to clot the blood faster. However, it had no effect on the animals like whales and birds that naturally lack FXII.

Now, let us analyse the Sūkta.

Treating Menorrhagia

अमूर्या यन्ति योषितो हिरा लोहितवाससः।

अभ्रातर इव जामयस्तिष्ठन्तु हतवर्चसः।।[3]

Word split

अमूः । याः । यन्ति । योषितः । हिराः । लोहितवाससः ।

अभ्रातरः । इव । जामयः । तिष्ठन्तु । हतवर्चसः।

This mantra explores the potential therapeutic application of mantra chanting in regulating the vascular function associated with menstrual bleeding. The blood vessels, which are responsible for bleeding during the menstrual period of women, are addressed through the chanting of this mantra to accomplish homeostasis, i.e. cessation of excessive bleeding.

The mantra highlights the restoration of normal vascular activity, advocating for circulatory equipoise as part of an integrative approach to menstrual health. By promoting balance within the vascular system, this practice aligns with broader physiological principles aimed at maintaining hemodynamic stability and optimizing menstrual function.

Through this perspective, the mantra presents a structured framework for physiological regulation through chanting. This method can be an alternative approach to menstrual health management. The potential of such mantra interventions in restoring vascular function emphasizes their relevance in holistic wellness practices, paving way for further exploration of scientific experiments and researches.[4]

Cessation of Bleeding in Blood Vessels

तिष्ठावरे तिष्ठ पर उत त्वं तिष्ठ मध्यमे ।

कनिष्ठिका च तिष्ठति तिष्ठादिद्धमनिर्मही ।।[5]

Word split

तिष्ठ । अवरे । तिष्ठ । पर । उत । त्वम् । तिष्ठ । मध्यमे ।

कनिष्ठिका । च । तिष्ठति । तिष्ठात् । इत् । धमनिः । मही ।।

This mantra emphasizes the physiological regulation of blood vessels, advocating for their optimal functionality in all body parts. This mantra speaks about the proper functioning of the vascular system, encompassing blood vessels located in the lower, middle, and upper parts of the body to safeguard circulatory equilibrium.

The mantra also describes the physiological importance of vascular integrity, irrespective of variations in the thickness of blood vessels. The first half of the mantra, systematically classifies blood vessels based on their anatomical distribution in different bodily regions. The next half of the mantra categorizes the blood vessels according to their relative size or thickness, highlighting their physiological significance.

The mantra addresses a specific appeal for the cessation of bleeding in blood vessels affected by disease through chanting of this mantra. It further advocates for the restoration of normal vascular function, ensuring attainment of physiological integrity of the affected blood vessels and overall circulatory stability. [6]

This Vedic therapy provides an integrative approach to the vascular health through systemic balance and structural integrity in maintaining the optimal blood circulatory function.

Regulating the Cardiovascular System

शतस्य धमनीनां सहस्रस्य हिराणाम् ।

अस्थुरिन्मध्यमा इमाः साकमन्ता अरंसत ।।[7]

Word split

शतस्य । धमनीनाम् । सहस्रस्य । हिराणाम् ।

अस्थुः । इत् । मध्यमाः । इमाः साकम् । अन्ताः । अरंसत ।।

This mantra provides a profound insight on the cardiovascular system, emphasizing the principal blood vessels associated with the heart. The term ‘dhamani’ in the mantra refers to the major blood vessels associated with the heart. Sāyana’s Bhāṣya provides a reference from the Mundakopaniṣad, elucidating the network of blood vessels of the heart[8] – अरा इव रथनाभौ संहता यत्र नाड्यः स एषोऽन्तश्चरते बहुधा जायमानः ।[9] Kathopaniṣad too offers a similar conceptualization, as recorded in Sayana’s commentary – शतं चैका च हृदयस्य नाड्यस्तासां मूर्धानम् अभिनिःसृतैका ।[10]

Further, the term ‘hirā’, in this mantra, refers to the branches of the major blood vessels of the heart. Meaning of the numeral ‘sahasra’ (one thousand) in the mantra should not be taken literally, but it symbolically signifies an innumerable multitude rather than a finite count. A mantra of Praśnopaniṣad also highlights the structured complexity of the cardiac channels – हृदि ह्येष आत्मा । अत्रैतदेकशतं नाडीनां तासां शतं शतमेकैकस्या द्वासप्ततिर्द्वासप्ततिः प्रतिशाखानाडीसहस्राणि भवन्त्यासु व्यानश्चरति ॥[11]

The mantra further indicates a restorative process of cardiovascular system. The mantra seeks to facilitate the healing of both principal and peripheral blood vessels that may have affected with disruption due to wounds, trauma, or pathological conditions. Through the chanting of the mantra, it addresses the cessation of bleeding and the restoration of normal circulatory function. It also conveys the proper function of other blood vessels, emphasizing the holistic vascular integrity, physiological harmony and systemic coherence in alignment with the broader principles of health and well-being.[12]

Restoration of Normal Vascular and Urinary Dynamics

परि वः सिकतावती धनूर्बृहत्यऽक्रमीत् ।

तिष्ठतेलयता सु कम् ।।[13]

Word split

परि । वः । सिकतावती । धनूः । बृहत्यः । अक्रमीत् ।

तिष्ठत । इलयत । सु । कम् ।।

The term ‘Sikātāvātī’, in the mantra, can be referred in two ways. First, the term can be referred to the fallopian tube and vas deferens (ductus deferens), which functions as conduits for the transportation of gamete. Second, Sikātāvātī can be referred to the modern kidney and which is crucial in the pathogenesis of Aśmarī – a medical irregularity corresponding to modern-day nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) and other renal disorders that lead to urinary dysfunction.[14]

The term ‘Dhanu’, in the mantra, can be interpreted as the urinary bladder. The mantra posits that any type of blockages in the bladder would lead to the improper blood circulation. The mantra seeks optimal vascular function and urinary dynamics, by eradicating the disease and enhancing patient well-being through chanting of the Sūkta.[15]

Modern medicine system also addresses these pathophysiological issues. Under specific pathological conditions, the dysfunction of urethras of both males and females may lead to urinary retention, causing a subsequent risk of renal impairment. Similarly, uterine pathologies, such as fibroids, can cause disturbances in the blood flow and vascular irregularities affecting the uterus.

Modern medical diagnostics also recognizes hematuria (urinary bleeding) causing due to ailments such as nephrolithiasis (kidney stones). Kidney stones can also affect blood flow, potentially leading to further vascular complications within the renal system.

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

Modern emerging researches provide potential insights on usages of sound frequencies in modulating blood flow and achieving haemostasis. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a therapeutic modality that employs precisely emits sound frequencies to induce coagulation within blood vessels, hence, achieving haemostatic control and cessation of haemorrhage.

HIFU is a non-invasive medical modality leveraging focused ultrasound waves to address various pathological conditions. The normal ultrasound imaging, which generates images of internal tissues through high-frequency sound wave reflection. However, HIFU functions through emitting concentrated sound to the targeted or affected body part and organ. The resultant thermal effect leads to selective tissue ablation, which would result in eradication of pathological structures such as tumors.

This modality works by emitting multiple confluence of ultrasound beams to a predefined focal region, eliciting a localized temperature increase that culminates in cellular disruption. The capacity of HIFU to traverse multiple tissue layers such as epidermal structures without inflicting collateral damage underscores its precision and therapeutic potential.

Several studies substantiate the efficacy of HIFU in clinical applications. A pivotal investigation, Blood Coagulation Using High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), delineates its role in achieving haemostasis[16]. Additionally, another research indicates its utility in lithotripsy, facilitating the fragmentation of nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) through targeted acoustic energy deposition. [17]

Future Research

Given the established applications of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) in various medical treatments, it is imperative to explore complementary methodologies that integrate traditional knowledge systems. The principles underlying HIFU suggest a potential framework for investigating the therapeutic efficacy of mantra chanting in the regulation of vascular dynamics and hemorrhagic conditions. Rigorous scientific inquiry into these intersections may yield insights into non-invasive, vibrational interventions that contribute to circulatory homeostasis and disease mitigation.

Discussion

The verses from the Atharvaveda show how ancient knowledge understood blood circulation, excessive bleeding, and ways to regulate vascular function. The mantras suggest a holistic healing method that combines physical treatments like applying soil to wounds with spiritual practices such as chanting. This blend of traditional medicine and ritual emphasizes the importance of balance and harmony in health.

Modern research has found that soil, particularly its silicate content, can help blood clot by activating coagulation factor XII (FXII). This scientific confirmation gives credibility to the ancient practice of using consecrated earth for stopping bleeding. Additionally, the mantras emphasize the importance of keeping blood vessels healthy. They classify different types of blood vessels based on their position and function, showing a detailed understanding similar to modern medical approaches.

Another aspect explored in the Sūkta relates to urinary health. The texts mention Sikātāvātī Nāḍī, which are linked to kidney stones and urinary tract issues. The mantras suggest restoring normal blood flow and improving urinary system function, concepts that align with modern medical treatments for conditions like fibroids, kidney stones, and urethral blockages.

HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is another modern technique that connects with these ancient practices. HIFU uses sound waves to stop bleeding by clotting blood vessels. This technology also supports ideas from the mantras, reinforcing the belief that sound vibrations can influence physical health.

Conclusion

The Atharvaveda’s mantras highlight early medical ideas that blend natural remedies with spiritual healing. While today’s medical systems use advanced technology to diagnose and treat vascular and urinary issues, Vedic traditions focus on balance and restoration through ritual and chanting.

The similarities between ancient healing methods and modern scientific findings suggest that early observations of human health were quite advanced. Combining traditional wisdom with modern research can create a more complete approach to medicine, allowing for a richer understanding of how health and healing work across different systems.

This connection between past and present opens the door for future exploration, where both traditional and scientific perspectives can work together to improve health in meaningful ways.

Works Cited:

1. Atharvaveda Samhita with Sayana Bhasyam – Vol 1, edited by Pandit Shankar Pandurang, Bombay, Government Central Book Depot, 1895.
2. Atharvaveda Samhita, Part 1, edited by Shri Ram Acharya, Mathura, Yug Nirman Yojana, 2005.
3. Atharvavediya Kaushika Grhya Sutram, by Maharsi Kausika, Varanasi, Jyotish Prakash Press, 1999.
4. Prasna Upanisad with the Commentary of Sankaracharya, translated by Swami Gambhirananda, Calcutta, Advaita Ashrama, 1995.
5. Prasnopanisad with Sankara Bhashyam, Gorakhpur, Gitapress, 1992.
6. Mundakopanisad with Sankara Bhashyam, Gorakhpur, Gitapress, 1992.
7. Kathopanisad with Sankara Bhashyam, Gorakhpur, Gitapress.
8. Coagulation Factor XII Contributes to Haemostasis When Activated by Soil in Wounds, by Juang, L.J., et al., Blood Advances, vol. 4, no. 8, pages 1737-1745, DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2019000425, 2020.
9. Blood Coagulation Using High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), by Nguyen, Phuc V., et al., Proceedings of SPIE: Photonic Therapeutics and Diagnostics X, vol. 8926, DOI: 10.1117/12.2037171, 2014.
10. High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Lithotripsy with Cavitating Microbubbles, by Yoshizawa, S., et al., Medical & Biological Engineering & Computing, vol. 47, no. 8, pages 851-860, DOI: 10.1007/s11517-009-0471-y, 2009.
11. Caraka Samhita. https://niimh.nic.in/ebooks/ecaraka/
12. Sushruta Samhita. https://niimh.nic.in/ebooks/esushruta/
13. Sabdakalpadruma. https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%83

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[1] Kauṣika Gṛhya Sūtram of Atharvaveda, 4.2.10 to 4.2.12

[2] Juang LJ, Mazinani N, Novakowski SK, Prowse ENP, Haulena M, Gailani D, Lavkulich LM, Kastrup CJ. Coagulation factor XII contributes to hemostasis when activated by soil in wounds. Blood Adv. 2020 Apr 28;4(8):1737-1745. DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2019000425. PMID: 32339233; PMCID: PMC7189277.

[3] Atharvaveda Samhitā, 1st Kāṇḍa, 17th Sūkta, 1^st Mantra

[4] Sāyaṇa Bhāṣyan on Atharvaveda, 1.17.1

[5] Atharvaveda Samhitā, 1st Kāṇḍa, 17th Sūkta, 2^nd Mantra

[6] Sāyaṇa Bhāṣyan on Atharvaveda, 1.17.2

[7] Atharvaveda Samhitā, 1st Kāṇḍa, 17th Sūkta, 3^rd Mantra

[8] Sāyaṇa Bhāṣyan on Atharvaveda, 1.17.3

[9] Munḍakopaniṣad, 2.2.6

[10] Kaṭhopaniṣad, 6.16

[11] Praśnopaniṣad, 3.6

[12] Sāyaṇa Bhāṣyan on Atharvaveda, 1.17.3

[13] Atharvaveda Samhitā, 1st Kāṇḍa, 17th Sūkta, 4^th Mantra

[14] Sāyaṇa Bhāṣyan on Atharvaveda, 1.17.4

[15] Sāyaṇa Bhāṣyan on Atharvaveda, 1.17.4

[16] Phuc V. Nguyen, Junghwan Oh, Hyun Wook Kang, “Blood coagulation using High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU),” Proc. SPIE 8926, Photonic Therapeutics and Diagnostics X, 89261A (4 March 2014); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2037171

[17] Yoshizawa S, Ikeda T, Ito A, Ota R, Takagi S, Matsumoto Y. High intensity focused ultrasound lithotripsy with cavitating microbubbles. Med Biol Eng Comput. 2009 Aug;47(8):851-60. doi: 10.1007/s11517-009-0471-y. Epub 2009 Apr 10. PMID: 19360448.