Critical Review of Asthikshaya and its Management: Ayurvedic Perspective

Abstract

The state of equilibrium of Dosha, Dhatus, Malas is health and its disequilibrium is known as disease. This
disequilibrium may either be Vriddhi or Kshaya. Asthiis thefifth Dhatu among the seven Dhatus .It is the
seat of vatadosha and carrying the function of dehadharana. Asthikshayais one of the condition described by
Acharya Charak under 18 types Kshaya in which there is kshayaof Asthi Dhatu. According to the principle of
Ashraya-ashrayee Bhava, Asthi & Vata are inversely proportional to each other regarding Vriddhi and Kshaya.
Vriddhvata leads to Kshaya of Asthi Dhatu. The symptoms of Asthikshaya resemble to Osteoporosis which is
major health problem of ageing population. It is a skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and micro
architectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to
fracture. Fracture is the most common complication of Osteoporosis which increases the risk of morbidity
as well as mortality. Vatais the major factor in the Samprapti of Asthikshaya, Sampraptiof Asthikshaya
occurs in two ways- Dhatukshayajanya and Srotorodhajanya. In Srotorodhajanya, the obstruction can be
cleared by the use of Deepana and Pachana Dravyas. Nidanparivarjana, Shodhanachikitsa including Basti,
Shamana Chikitsa including use of Swayoni Dravyas, Sudha Vargiya Dravyas, Guggulukalapa are the major
treatment modalities for Asthikshaya. They help in Vatashamana and as well as improving the bone health.
By following Dincharya, Rutucharya and diet regulation, this disease can be prevented. This review article
highlights on etiopathogenesis of Asthikshaya and its measures as per Ayurvedic perspective.