Critical Analysis of the Concept of Asthi Kshaya vis-a-vis Osteoporosis

Abstract

'AYURVEDA', THE SCIENCE OF LIFE is a time tested treasure of knowledge which explains human body as a congenial homeostasis of Dosha, Dhatu and Mala. The function of dhatus is dharana of Sharira. Among dhatus, Asthi dhatu is blessed with function of sharira dharana. It gives shape to body and protects vital organs. Equilibrium of dhatus is health and their disequilibrium is disease. This disequilibrium may either be increase or decrease. Asthi kshaya (decrease in bone tissue) is a condition explained in Ayurveda, under heading of ashtadasha kshayas. In Asthi kshaya there is diminution of Asthi dhatu. Similar to this, there is a condition known as Osteoporosis in western medicine which means 'Porous bones' or the brittleness of bones due to increased porosity from loss of mineral substance causing decrease in bone tissue & leading to increased risk of fractures. According to principles of Aashrayaashrayee bhava, Asthi dhatu is seat of Vata dosha and Asthi & Vata are inversely proportional to each other regarding increase and decrease. Increase of Vata leads to decrease of Asthi. Here, an effort is made to critically analyse concept of Asthi kshaya mentioned in Ayurveda with special reference to Osteoporosis.