A Critical Review of Sara Pariksha in Ayurveda: Challenges and Future Perspectives

Abstract

The entire wisdom of Ayurveda addresses leading a healthy life; individual-focused treatment is the key to good health. The oldest and most reliable science of life is Ayurveda. It provides detailed information on Dashavidha Aatura Pariksha. Sara is defined in Ayurveda as Saraha Vishuddhataro Dhatu, which translates to "essence of all Dhatu." Acharya Charaka described eight different kinds of Sara. Each is distinguished by both psychological and physical parameters. Physical constitution (Prakruti), morbidity (Vikruti), excellence of Dushya or tissue elements (Sara), compactness of tissues or organs (Samhanana), measurement of body constituents (Pramana), homologation (Saatmya), psychic condition (Satwa), power of food intake and digestion (Aaharshakti), power of exercise performance (Vyayam Shakti), and age (Vayah) for Bala Pramaan are the ten-fold examination of patients. Vikruti Pariksha is employed to access the Bala of Dosh, whereas the other nine are used to evaluate the Bala of Rogi. One element of Dashvidha Aatur Pariksha, or Sara Pariksha, is utilized to assess the strength of Dhatu as well as of the person.