Effect of Rakthamokshana (blood letting therapy) and Sri Lankan traditional medicine on Siraja Granthi (varicose veins) - A case study

Abstract

Siraja Granthi, a disease described in Ayurveda, can be correlated with varicose veins. Varicose veins occur due to accumulation of blood caused by damaged or weakened valves. Raktamokshana (bloodletting therapy) using leeches, paste of fresh leaves of Dahaspethiya (Tagetes erecta) and Maduruthala Koththamalli Wandu Thambuma (Ocimum sanctum and Coriandrum sativum) are used by Sri Lankan traditional physicians to treat Siraja Granthi (varicose veins) with positive results. A 35year old female patient with a 14year history of varicose veins with dilated tortuous veins, heaviness and pain in the left leg was selected. Patient was treated for 21 days. Bloodletting therapy was conducted using leeches on days 1, 8 and 15. Oral administration of Madurutala Kottamalli Wandu Thembuma (MKWT), along with external application of Daspethiya lepa was carried out from Day 1 to 21. But Daspethiya lepa was not applied on Days 1, 8 and 15; days where bloodletting therapy was conducted. Therapeutic effects were evaluated through symptomatic relief. By Day 15, elevation of veins was completely relieved and heaviness, pain in leg and pain in leg while walking were partially relieved. By Day 21, symptoms such as heaviness, pain in the leg and pain in leg while walking were completely relieved. According to Ayurveda Siraja Granthi is caused by vitiation of Vata and Pitta Dosha. Rakthamokshana is the best treatment method to eliminate vitiated Pitta Dosha. Leeches’ saliva contains hirudin and calin which help to inhibit blood coagulation and acetylcholine, which helps to dilate blood vessels. Ingredients of MKWT pacify vitiated Vata and Pitta Dosha. Antioxidant and wound healing properties of ingredients of MKWT are scientifically proven. Antioxidant, wound healing, analgesic, antibacterial properties of Tagetes erecta are also scientifically proven. Due to these properties, this treatment regimen is effective in treatment of Siraja Granthi (varicose veins).