🌿 Raktamokshan Treatment (Bloodletting Therapy in Ayurveda)

Raktamokshan (रक्तमोक्षण) is one of the Panchakarma therapies in Ayurveda, aimed at purification of blood by removing vitiated (impure) blood from the body. It is highly effective in treating diseases caused due to Rakta dhatu dushti (vitiation of blood) and Pitta imbalance.

🔹 Meaning

  • Rakta = Blood

  • Mokshana = Liberation/Elimination
    👉 Thus, Raktamokshan = Bloodletting therapy

🔹 Purpose of Raktamokshan

  • To expel impure, morbid blood from the body

  • To restore balance of Doshas (mainly Pitta and Rakta)

  • To improve circulation and tissue nourishment

🔹 Indications (When it is useful)

Raktamokshan is indicated in diseases caused by impure blood, such as:

  • Skin disorders (Psoriasis, Eczema, Acne, Leprosy)

  • Chronic itching and rashes

  • Varicose veins

  • Gout (Vatarakta)

  • Abscesses and boils

  • Hypertension (as supportive)

  • Eye diseases due to Pitta/Rakta dushti

🔹 Types of Raktamokshan

There are two main methods:

1. Shastra Visravana (Surgical/Instrumental Bloodletting)

  • Siravyadha (Venesection): Letting blood out by puncturing a vein

  • Pracchana: Multiple small pricks with a needle or scalpel

  • Jalaukavacharana (Leech therapy): Using medicinal leeches to suck impure blood

2. Anushastra Visravana (Non-surgical Bloodletting)

  • Shrunga (Horn application): Using cow horn to suck blood

  • Alabu (Bottle gourd method): Heated bottle gourd to create suction

  • Ghati Yantra (Glass vessel suction): Similar to modern cupping therapy

🔹 Benefits

  • Purifies blood

  • Reduces inflammation and pain

  • Improves skin complexion and glow

  • Enhances immunity

  • Balances Pitta and Rakta

🔹 Contraindications (When NOT to do)

  • Children

  • Elderly and weak persons

  • Pregnant women

  • Anemic patients

  • Very thin or emaciated persons

✨ In modern times, Leech therapy (Jalaukavacharana) and cupping therapy are the most widely practiced forms of Raktamokshan.