
A CONCEPTUAL STUDY ON MARMA SHARIR: THE VITAL POINTS OF AYURVEDIC ANATOMY
Marma Sharir is one of the most unique and profound concepts in Ayurvedic anatomy. Derived from the classical texts, Marma refers to vital anatomical sites where muscles (mamsa), blood vessels (sira), ligaments (snayu), bones (asthi), and joints (sandhi) intersect, and which are essential for the sustenance of life. Any trauma to these points can result in severe pain, functional impairment, or even death, depending on the nature and classification of the marma. This article aims to conduct a conceptual study of Marma Sharir by reviewing its anatomical, physiological, and clinical importance as described in Ayurvedic classics like Sushruta Samhita, Charaka Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya.
The classification of marma based on location, tissue predominance, and the impact of injury is explored in detail to provide a comprehensive understanding. Further, the relevance of marma in therapeutic procedures such as Marma Chikitsa, surgical considerations, and its modern interpretations in terms of trigger points or acupressure points is analyzed. A comparative evaluation is also attempted with modern anatomical knowledge to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and contemporary medicine.
This study not only emphasizes the holistic and life-protective significance of Marma Sharir but also encourages the integration of its principles into modern clinical practices, especially in pain management, trauma care, and rehabilitation. Through textual analysis, theoretical interpretation, and correlative evaluation, the paper contributes to enriching the foundational understanding of Ayurvedic anatomy with special focus on the concept of marma.
KEYOWRDS- Marma Sharir, Ayurvedic Anatomy, Vital Points, Marma Chikitsa, Traditional and Modern Correlation