Applied Anatomical Insights of Marma Sharir in Garbha Sharir: A Classical and Modern Review with special reference to Rachana Sharir

Abstract

Marma Sharir is described as Shalya Vishayardha by Acharya Sushruta. It is defined as the confluence of Mamsa, Sira, Snayu, Asthi and Sandhi where Prana resides. Garbha Sharir is the foundation of Rachana Sharir. In Ayurvedic classics, direct description of Marma Utpatti in Garbha is not available, which creates confusion among students. The present review aims to interpret the formation of Marma Adhisthana during Garbha Avastha on the basis of Masanumasika Garbha Vriddhi. References from Sushruta Samhita, Sharira Sthana chapter 2, 3, 4 and 6 and Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthana chapter 4 were reviewed along with modern embryology textbooks. It was found that Tritiya Masa is described as Sarva Anga-Pratyanga and Sarva Indriya Nirvritti Kala (Su.Sha. 3/18). Since Marma is the Sannipata of Anga-Pratyanga components, its Adhisthana also develops in the same period. This period correlates with 9-12 weeks of intrauterine life where organogenesis occurs in modern embryology. Thus, Tritiya Masa can be considered as Marma Adhisthana Utpatti Kala. This applied interpretation is useful for teaching and clinical understanding of congenital Marma Vikriti.