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Integrative Analysis of Artavavaha and Mutravaha Srotas: Ayurvedic
and Modern Anatomical Correlations in Female Reproductive and
Urinary Health
Dr. Deepali Gautam
1*
, Dr. Pooja Makhnotra
2
, Dr. Pooja Thakur
2
1
MD Scholar, P.G. Dept. of Rachana Sharir, RGGPG Ayurvedic College & Hospital Paprola
2
Lecturer, P. G. Dept. of Rachana Sharir, RGGPG Ayurvedic College & Hospital Paprola
*Corresponding Author
ABSTRACT
Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of Srotas—subtle channels responsible for transporting biological
substances—as foundational to maintaining physiological balance and health. Within this framework,
Artavavaha Srotas and Mutravaha Srotas are fundamentally responsible for the functioning of the female
reproductive and urinary systems, respectively. Artavavaha Srotas, originating from the Garbhashaya and
Artavavaha Dhamanis, regulate menstruation, ovulation, and reproductive potential, and their vitiation manifests
as infertility, menstrual irregularities, and gynecological disorders. Mutravaha Srotas, beginning from the Basti
and Medhra, govern urine formation, conduction, and elimination, with disorders presenting as urinary retention,
Prameha, and urinary calculi. Modern anatomical correlations identify these channels with the uterus, ovaries,
fallopian tubes, kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, highlighting a clear structure-function relationship.
Comparative analysis reveals convergence between Ayurvedic principles—Moola, Marga, and Mukha—and
contemporary understanding of organ origin, course, and outlets. This integrative perspective facilitates a holistic
approach to diagnosis, prevention, and therapeutics, combining classical wisdom with modern medical insights.
Understanding these channels enhances clinical decision-making in gynecology and urology, promotes
preventive healthcare, and underscores the relevance of Srotas in contemporary integrative medicine.
Keywords: Artavavaha Srotas, Mutravaha Srotas, Srotodushti, Female reproductive system Urinary system,
Ayurveda and modern correlation
INTRODUCTION
Ayurveda, the time-honored healing system of India, is founded on the principle of maintaining harmony
between the body, mind, and soul. Within its physiological concepts, the doctrine of Srotas Sharir (networks of
body channels) occupies a central position in maintaining balance and explaining the mechanisms of disease.
These Srotas are defined as channels that transport vital biological materials throughout the body, ensuring
nourishment, growth, maintenance, and elimination. In its theoretical framework, the body’s channels, or Srotas,
are grouped into two broad categories—Bahya Srotas (those connected with external functions) and Antah Srotas
(those governing internal processes). The latter are further divided into thirteen principal pairs, each associated
with distinct functions and tissues [1].
Ayurvedic compendia such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita describe that Srotas may undergo
pathological changes in three ways—Sanga (obstruction), Vriddhi (excessive activity or dilation), and Vimarga-
Gamana (abnormal or misplaced flow) [2]. These pathological states form the basis of numerous disease
processes. Within this system, the Artavavaha Srotas and Mutravaha Srotas hold particular significance, as they
are closely related to the physiology and pathology of the female reproductive system and the urinary system,
making them especially relevant in the fields of gynecology and urology.
The Artavavaha Srotas are said to carry Artava—a term in Ayurveda that extends beyond menstrual blood to
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN APPLIED SCIENCE (IJRIAS)
ISSN No. 2454-6194 | DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS |Volume X Issue IX September 2025
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Page 279
include ovulatory secretions and the reproductive potential of women. These channels are described to originate
from the Garbhashaya (uterus) and Artavavahi Dhamanis (special vessels transporting reproductive elements),
as mentioned by Charaka and Sushruta [3]. From an anatomical perspective, they can be correlated with the
uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the associated vascular and lymphatic structures that regulate menstruation,
ovulation, and overall reproductive functioning.
In contrast, the Mutravaha Srotas are described as the channels responsible for the processes of urine formation,
conduction, and elimination. Their points of origin are traced to the Basti (urinary bladder) and Medhra (external
genitalia), while some authorities also include the Guda (anal region) to symbolically represent the terminal
pathways of pelvic excretion. From a modern anatomical viewpoint, these channels can be correlated with the
kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra—the primary organs of the urinary system responsible for
maintaining urine flow, fluid regulation, and electrolyte equilibrium.
Analyzing these channels alongside their modern counterparts offers significant clarity in interpreting classical
Ayurvedic principles through the lens of contemporary science. Such comparative understanding becomes
essential for creating a meaningful bridge between traditional knowledge systems and modern medical thought.
The present study therefore seeks to critically evaluate the descriptions of Artavavaha and Mutravaha Srotas,
outline their physiological and pathological relevance, and establish their structural correlations with modern
anatomy. This integrative perspective not only enriches academic discourse but also carries practical importance
in clinical diagnosis, therapeutic planning, and preventive healthcare.
MATERIALS & METHODS
• A comprehensive review of classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and
Ashtanga Hridaya was conducted to extract detailed descriptions of Artavavaha and Mutravaha Srotas, their
Moola (origin), Marga (pathway), Mukha (opening), and associated functions and pathologies.
• Modern anatomical references such as Gray’s Anatomy, human embryology texts, and physiology textbooks
were consulted to establish anatomical correlates of the reproductive and urinary systems.
• Comparative analysis was performed to correlate Ayurvedic concepts of Srotas with modern anatomical
structures including uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra.
• Clinical relevance was assessed by reviewing literature on gynecological and urinary disorders such as
infertility, PCOS, menstrual irregularities, urinary retention, Prameha, and urolithiasis.
• Data were synthesized to provide an integrative understanding of physiological, pathological, and therapeutic
implications of Artavavaha and Mutravaha Srotas from both Ayurvedic and modern medical perspectives.
Concept Of Srotas In Ayurveda
The term Srotas originates from the Sanskrit root “Sru”, which conveys the sense of movement or continuous
flow. In Ayurveda, these are described as the subtle channels through which various biological substances are
transported within the body [4]. Charaka emphasizes their role in circulation and nourishment, while Sushruta
gives a detailed account of their structural aspects. Every Srotas is characterized by three essential components:
Moola (root): the point of origin
Marga (pathway): the course of the channel
Mukha (opening): the outlet or inlet
Disturbance in any of these components leads to Srotodushti (disorders of the channels), which manifests with
characteristic clinical features. Hence, a thorough understanding of their anatomy and pathology is vital for
accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN APPLIED SCIENCE (IJRIAS)
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Artavavaha Srotas
Classical Perspective - In Ayurvedic tradition, Artava is described as a Dhatu-Mala of Rasa Dhatu, and is
regarded as the essence of the female reproductive system [5].
Moola (origin) of Artavavaha Srotas:
According to Charaka, the Moola (root) of the Artavavaha Srotas lies in the Garbhashaya (uterus) and
the Artavavaha Dhamanis (vascular channels responsible for reproductive functions). [6]
According to Sushruta, the Moola (root) of the Artavavaha Srotas lies in the Garbhashaya and
Artavavaha Sira [7]
Functions: They are primarily responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle (Rituchakra), facilitating ovulation,
and supporting conception and embryonic development.
Vitiation (Dushti Lakshana):
Nashta Artava (Absence of menstruation)
Painful menstruation (Dysmenorrhea)
Infertility
Artava Dushti (Irregular menstrual cycles)
Mutravaha Srotas
Classical Perspective - The Mutravaha Srotas are described as the pathways that conduct Mutra (urine), which
in Ayurveda is considered the excretory product (Mala) of Rasa Dhatu and Meda Dhatu. They are primarily
associated with the kidneys and the urinary bladder [8].
Moola (origin) of Mutravaha Srotas:
According to Charaka, the Moola (root) of the Mutravaha Srotas lies in the: Basti (urinary bladder) and
Medovaha Dhamanis [9]
According to Sushruta, the Moola (root) of the Mutravaha Srotas lies in the: Basti (urinary bladder) and
Vankshana (groin region) [10]
Functions: These channels are responsible for the collection, temporary storage, and expulsion of urine from
the body.
Vitiation (Dushti Lakshana):
Difficulty in urination (Mutrakrichchhra)
Excessive urination (Prameha)
Suppression or absence of urine (Mutraghata)
Burning sensation during micturition (Mutradaha) [11]
Table 1: Modern anatomical correlates of artavavaha srotas
Ayurvedic Concept
Contemporary Anatomical Correlates
Physiological Role
Garbhashaya
Uterus
Menstruation, fetal development
Artavavaha Dhamani
Uterine and ovarian arteries
Blood supply to uterus and ovaries
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN APPLIED SCIENCE (IJRIAS)
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Page 281
Artavavaha Sira
Uterine and ovarian veins
Venous return from reproductive organs
Yoni
Vagina and external genitalia
Menstrual flow and childbirth passage
Anda Vaha Srotas
Fallopian tubes
Gamete transport
Table 2: Modern anatomical correlates of Mutravaha Srotas
Ayurvedic Concept
Contemporary Anatomical Correlates
Physiological Role
Basti
Urinary bladder
Urine storage
Vankshana Pradesh
Groin (inguinal region)
Location of ureters and vessels
Mutravaha Srotas
Kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra
Filtration, conduction, and excretion of
urine
Medovaha Dhamani
Renal arteries
Blood supply to kidneys
Applied Anatomy And Clinical Correlation
Artavavaha Srotas
Clinical Significance: Disorders such as infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), menstrual
irregularities including amenorrhea, and endometriosis are closely associated with dysfunctions of this system.
Ayurvedic Perspective: Vitiation or obstruction of Artavavaha Srotas is considered responsible for conditions
like Vandhyatva (infertility), Artavakṣhaya (scanty or absent menstruation), and various types of Yonivyapad
(gynecological disorders).
Modern Correlation: Pathologies are usually linked with structural or hormonal imbalances in the ovaries,
uterus, or dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis.
Mutravaha Srotas
Clinical Significance: This system is implicated in urinary tract infections (UTIs), renal insufficiency, and
bladder dysfunctions.
Ayurvedic Perspective: Diseases such as Mutraghata (urinary retention), Prameha (a group of metabolic and
urinary disorders, including diabetes mellitus), and Ashmari (urinary calculi) are attributed to derangement of
Mutravaha Srotas.
Modern Correlation: Clinically, these conditions correspond to nephritis, urolithiasis, urinary retention
syndromes, and diabetic nephropathy.
Table 3: Correlation between Ayurvedic and modern concepts
Conceptual Framework
Ayurvedic Concept
Modern Concept
Embryological
development
From Panchamahabhuta and Shukra-
Rakta
From mesoderm – urogenital ridge
Functionality
Physical + mental + reproductive roles
Primarily physiological
Pathology
Dosha, Dhatu, Srotas involvement
Cellular, molecular, structural
dysfunction
Diagnostic tools
Darshana, Sparshana, Prashna
Imaging, histology, laboratory
investigations
Therapeutics
Panchakarma, Rasayana, Shamana
Chikitsa
Surgical, pharmacological, dialysis,
etc.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN APPLIED SCIENCE (IJRIAS)
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DISCUSSION
Integrative Understanding of Artavavaha Srotas
The concept of Artavavaha Srotas in Ayurveda extends beyond a purely structural explanation to encompass
functional and reproductive dimensions. Classical texts emphasize their origin in the Garbhashaya and
Artavavaha Dhamanis, signifying the uterus and associated vascular structures. When compared with modern
anatomy, this description corresponds to the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and their vascular supply. Clinically,
the dysfunction of these channels manifests as menstrual irregularities, infertility, and gynecological disorders.
This perspective resonates with modern observations where ovarian dysfunction, hormonal imbalance, or uterine
pathology underlie conditions such as PCOS, amenorrhea, or endometriosis. Thus, Ayurveda provides a holistic
viewpoint that integrates structural, functional, and psychological factors, whereas modern medicine emphasizes
cellular and endocrine mechanisms. Together, they complement each other in understanding reproductive health.
Insights into Mutravaha Srotas
The Mutravaha Srotas, described as originating from the Basti and Medhra, highlight the importance of urine
formation and elimination in maintaining homeostasis. Classical texts describe pathologies like Mutraghata
(retention), Prameha (urinary and metabolic disorders), and Ashmari (urinary calculi), which closely parallel
modern conditions such as urinary retention, diabetic nephropathy, and urolithiasis. Correlation with kidneys,
ureters, bladder, and urethra provides a clear anatomical framework that bridges the gap between ancient and
modern knowledge. Importantly, while Ayurveda emphasizes the role of Doshic imbalance and lifestyle in
urinary disorders, modern medicine identifies infection, obstruction, and metabolic causes. Together, these
insights strengthen the approach toward prevention and management of urological conditions.
Correlation and Clinical Implications
A key observation from the comparative study of Srotas and modern anatomy is the shared recognition of
structure–function interdependence. Ayurvedic descriptions highlight Moola (origin), Marga (pathway), and
Mukha (opening), which can be conceptually mapped to organ origin, anatomical course, and outlets of the
urinary and reproductive systems. Pathological changes, whether described as Sanga (obstruction) or Vriddhi
(hyperactivity), parallel modern concepts of blockage, dilation, or functional imbalance. This conceptual
convergence opens the possibility of integrative approaches in diagnostics and therapeutics. While modern
investigations rely on imaging and laboratory tools, Ayurveda emphasizes clinical observation through
Darshana, Sparshana, and Prashna. Similarly, management strategies range from Ayurvedic measures like
Panchakarma and Rasayana to modern pharmacological and surgical interventions.
Bridging Traditional and Modern Perspectives
The comparative evaluation of Artavavaha and Mutravaha Srotas underscores the importance of dialogue
between Ayurveda and contemporary medicine. Ayurveda provides a multidimensional view, integrating
physical, psychological, and lifestyle aspects, while modern anatomy and physiology offer detailed structural
and biochemical explanations. Together, they create a comprehensive framework that enriches academic
discourse and enhances clinical practice. This integrative perspective not only validates classical concepts in
modern terms but also encourages holistic approaches to women’s health and urology.
CONCLUSION
1. Artavavaha Srotas - Functional and Clinical Significance
Responsible for menstrual regulation, ovulation, and reproductive potential.
Anatomically correlated with uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and associated vascular structures.
Dysfunction manifests as infertility, PCOS, amenorrhea, and other gynecological disorders.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN APPLIED SCIENCE (IJRIAS)
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Integrates structural, functional, and psychological aspects of female reproductive health.
2. Mutravaha Srotas Functional and Clinical Significance
Governs urine formation, conduction, and elimination.
Corresponds to kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra.
Vitiation leads to Mutraghata (urinary retention), Prameha (metabolic/urinary disorders), and Ashmari
(urinary calculi).
Emphasizes the role of Doshic imbalance and lifestyle alongside anatomical and physiological factors.
3. Integrative Perspective
Correlation of Srotas with modern anatomy provides clarity in diagnosis and therapeutics.
Ayurvedic principles of Moola (origin), Marga (pathway), and Mukha (opening) conceptually align with
organ origin, course, and outlets.
Supports a holistic, patient-centered approach combining Ayurvedic and modern medical interventions.
4. Relevance in Contemporary Practice
Bridges traditional wisdom with modern science, enhancing preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic
strategies.
Encourages integrative management of reproductive and urinary disorders.
Validates the continued significance of Srotas in contemporary clinical practice.
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