Comparative study of Asthi Sandhi Praman in Asthi Sara and Rakta Sara purush

Abstract

Introduction: In Ayurveda, Dhatus are formed from the nutrients of digested food and are nourished sequentially, as described in Kedari Kulya Nyaya. Asthi Dhatu is nourished by Meda Dhatu and in turn supports Majja Dhatu. This sequential interdependence may introduce bias in assessment; therefore, Rakta Dhatu, being non-adjacent to Asthi Dhatu, was selected for comparative evaluation. Asthi Sara individuals are characterized by well-developed, sturdy skeletal structures, whereas Rakta Sara individuals exhibit soft, radiant, and moderately built features. Objectives: To assess Asthi Sandhi Praman in Asthi Sara Purush and Rakta Sara Purush, and to compare the joint dimensions between these two groups. Methodology: Following approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee and obtaining informed consent, participants were enrolled and categorized into two groups: Asthi Sara (Group A) and Rakta Sara (Group B) with the help of Sarata Parikshana. Anthropometric parameters including height, weight, joint circumferences (knee, elbow, ankle), joint widths (measured using vernier callipers), head circumference, heel width, axilla width, and Anguli Praman were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using the two-sample t-test. Results: The mean values of height, weight, and all measured joint parameters were significantly higher in Asthi Sara Purush compared to Rakta Sara Purush (p < 0.05), indicating broader and more robust skeletal and joint structures. Conclusion: Asthi Sara Purush demonstrate significantly greater skeletal dimensions and joint breadth, reflecting optimal nourishment and functional integrity of Asthi Dhatu. These findings substantiate that enhanced Asthi Sarata is associated with superior structural stability compared to Rakta Sara Purush.