Role of Jalaukavcharan in Manegment of Raynaud’s disease

Abstract

Raynaud’s phenomenon was first described in 1862 by Maurice Raynaud and was described as local asphyxia of the extremities which was a result of increased irritability of the central parts of the cord presiding over vascular innervation. Over a century later the pathophysiology is still not perfectly understood. There are likely numerous factors involved in the pathogenesis of Raynaud’s, such as vascular, intravascular, and neural abnormalities, and these factors may differ among those with primary versus secondary Raynaud’s.. Jalaukavacharana is the ancient technique used for Raktmokshana, here Jalauka means leeches and avacharana means application. Jalauka is one of the tools for Raktmokshana, among Shring, Alabu and Prachhana where Jalauka, Shring, Alabu are used for Pitta, Vata, Kahpa Doshaj Vyadhi respectively. Jalaukavacharana (leech therapy) is a non-surgical type of Raktamokshana and considered as the most unique and effective method of bloodletting.