Sapta Dhatu and Modern Histology: a Comparative Review
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Ayurveda describes Sapta Dhatu as seven fundamental constituents that sustain the structure and physiological functions of the human body: Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra. Modern histology studies the microscopic structure of cells, tissues, and organs. Aim: To review Sapta Dhatu according to classical Ayurvedic literature and critically compare it with modern histology. Materials and Methods: This narrative review draws on classical texts, including Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, published literature, and standard histology references. Descriptions of the seven Dhatus were compared with relevant modern tissue categories. Discussion: Ayurvedic literature describes the Dhatus as structural and functional constituents of the body. Modern histology classifies tissues by cellular composition, extracellular matrix, microscopic architecture, and physiological function. Some similarities can be discussed, but the two systems use different conceptual frameworks and no universal one-to-one correspondence is established. Conclusion: Sapta Dhatu Siddhanta is important in Ayurvedic Rachana Sharir. Critical comparison can support interdisciplinary understanding while preserving the distinction between traditional concepts and experimentally established tissue classifications.
Author: *Puja Shivtej Darunte
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225628715
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