Ayurveda and Modern Anatomical, Pathological and Clinical Perspectives on Pranvaha Srotas

Authors

  • Neetu Singh, Rinku Kumari, Dharmesh Kumar Singh, Ankita Goyal, Shrigire Sayram Ramgonda, Mundhe Mangesh Gopinath, Preeti Sharma, Ram Deo Pandit*

Keywords:

Pranvaha Srotas, Ayurveda, respiratory system, integrative medicine

Abstract

Background: Pranvaha Srotas, the Ayurvedic channels governing Prana (life force), play a vital role in respiration, oxygenation, and energy metabolism. While classical texts describe these pathways in terms of doshas and physiological functions, modern medicine correlates them with the respiratory, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. This review synthesizes Ayurvedic and biomedical perspectives to explore the anatomical, pathological, and clinical dimensions of Pranvaha Srotas. 

Objectives: Examine the Ayurvedic conceptualization of Pranvaha Srotas, including its structure, function, and associated disorders.  Identify modern anatomical and physiological correlates.  Compare Ayurvedic pathologies with contemporary respiratory and autonomic disorders. Evaluate integrative treatment approaches. 

Methods: Narrative review conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya) and contemporary biomedical literature. Key themes were analyzed for conceptual alignment and clinical relevance. 

Results:  Anatomical Correlates: Pranvaha Srotas closely parallels the respiratory tract (trachea, bronchi, alveoli), cardiovascular system (heart, great vessels), and autonomic nervous system (vagus nerve).  Pathological Parallels: Tamaka Swasa resembles asthma/COPD, while Pranavaha Srotodushti (channel dysfunction) aligns with hypoxia and respiratory failure.  Therapeutic Integration: Ayurvedic interventions complement modern treatments. 

Conclusion: The Ayurvedic model of Pranvaha Srotas offers a holistic framework that complements modern medicine, particularly in managing respiratory and autonomic disorders. Integrative approaches show promise, though further clinical research is needed to validate synergies. This review underscores the potential for cross-disciplinary collaboration in respiratory health. 

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Gnaiger E. Capacity of oxIdative phosphorylation in human skeletal muscle. J Physiol. 2000;526(Pt 1):203-10.

Pramanik T, Sharma HO, Mishra S, et al. Immediate effect of slow pace bhastrika Pranayama on blood pressure and heart rate. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(3):293-5.

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Lobo V, Patil A, Phatak A, et al. Free radicals, antioxIdants and functional foods. Pharmacogn Rev. 2010;4(8):118-26.

Thayer JF, Lane RD. The role of vagal function in the risk for cardiovascular disease and mortality. Biol Psychol. 2007;74(2):224-42.

Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian J Psychol Med. 2012;34(3):255-62.

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Published

2025-04-28

How to Cite

1.
Neetu Singh, Rinku Kumari, Dharmesh Kumar Singh, Ankita Goyal, Shrigire Sayram Ramgonda, Mundhe Mangesh Gopinath, Preeti Sharma, Ram Deo Pandit*. Ayurveda and Modern Anatomical, Pathological and Clinical Perspectives on Pranvaha Srotas. J Neonatal Surg [Internet]. 2025Apr.28 [cited 2025Sep.21];14(18S):501-8. Available from: https://www.jneonatalsurg.com/index.php/jns/article/view/4792

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 18S (2025): Journal of Neonatal Surgery

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Original Article

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