Bloodletting purifies blood when symptoms like abnormal color, texture, or clotting appear. This traditional therapy must follow oleation and sudation treatments, with four main techniques: needle pricking, leech therapy, vacuum application, or vein cutting. Particularly effective for skin disorders, diabetic wounds, arthritis, and varicose veins, bloodletting reduces inflammation, improves skin quality, and enhances healing. This therapy is never recommended for completely healthy individuals without symptoms.
📋 Purpose of Bloodletting
Unlike other Panchkarma therapies which aim to balance vitiated doshas, bloodletting is specifically performed for purifying the blood when symptoms of blood impurity are observed.
🔍 Symptoms of Impure Blood
By Dosha Type:
Vata-vitiated blood:
Darkish red in color
Non-slimy, foamy texture
Thin consistency
Shrinking of blood vessels
Pitta-vitiated blood:
Yellow or blackish color
Delayed coagulation
Excessive bleeding even from minor cuts
Kapha-vitiated blood:
Slightly pale colored
Slimy and thick consistency
Tendency to clot within blood vessels
🔄 Pre-Procedure Requirements
Bloodletting must be preceded by:
Important note: If the patient is undergoing any other procedures, these must be completed first before evaluating the need for bloodletting. Often, other procedures may eliminate the need for bloodletting altogether.
🩸 Types of Bloodletting Techniques
(Prachanam)
Involves prickling with a needle or blade
(Jalaukavacharanam)
Involves the use of leeches
Most commonly practiced method
(Shringam)
Involves the use of vacuum bottles
Traditionally performed using animal horns
(Sira Vedham)
Involves cutting of veins
Used for purification of blood throughout the body
✅ Therapeutic Applications
Bloodletting is prescribed for treating:
Skin Conditions
Itching
Eczema
Psoriasis
Discoloration
Other Conditions
Auto-immune diseases
Diabetic wounds
Conjunctivitis
and
Broken blood vessels
Varicose veins and spider veins
Blood clots
Emergency Uses
Poisonous bites
Very high blood pressure
🌟 Benefits of Bloodletting
Reduces skin discoloration
Improves blood and skin quality
Decreases inflammation
Reduces blood clots
Accelerates wound healing, especially in diabetic patients
Enhances digestive capacity
Effectively treats:
Chronic wounds
Diabetic ulcers
Varicose veins
Various skin diseases
❌ Contraindications
Bloodletting should NOT be performed in cases of:
Children, elderly, or debilitated patients
Pregnancy or post-delivery period
Hemophobic individuals (fear of blood)
Patients with low blood supply
Excessive body heat
Recent alcohol consumption
After excessive consumption of acidic or sour foods
Patients on blood thinners
Any type of bleeding conditions (including menstruation)
Full-body swelling
Anemia
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should bloodletting be performed on a completely healthy person?
A: No, bloodletting is a therapeutic procedure intended only for treating specific conditions and is not recommended for individuals without symptoms or conditions that warrant this treatment.
References:
Primary Source: School of Ayurveda and Panchkarma - Lectures and Notes
DISCLAIMER: The contents of this website are purely informative and educational and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a certified healthcare professional for advice.