Difference between revisions of "Marma (मर्म)"

From Dharmawiki
Jump to navigation Jump to search
 
(9 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
−
The word Marma literally means any vulnerable point or core point of something. In reference to human body marma indicates a vulnerable point in the body which upon injury or damage by any external force can lead to sudden ill health or even death. The level of damage depends upon various factors like the type of marma, intensity of injury and the site of damage and its distance from the marma point. According to Ayurveda, Marmas are the points where the life energy is predominantly present. Hence damage to marmas can also lead to death. Therefore Ayurveda treatises discuss in depth about various types of marmas, there composition, effects of damage to all different types of marmas etc.  
+
The word Marma (Samskrit - मर्म/मर्मन्)means any vulnerable point or core point of something. In reference to human body marma indicates a vulnerable point in the body which upon injury or damage by any external force can lead to sudden ill health or even death. The level of damage depends upon various factors like the type of marma, intensity of injury and the site of damage and its distance from the marma point. According to Ayurveda, Marmas are the points where the life energy is predominantly present. Hence damage to marmas can also lead to death. Therefore Ayurveda treatises discuss in depth about various types of marmas, there composition, effects of damage to all different types of marmas etc.  
  
 
== परिचयः॥ Introduction ==
 
== परिचयः॥ Introduction ==
−
Marma or the vital points is one of the important and exclusive topic discussed in Ayurveda. The references for the fundamentals of knowledge about Marma can be traced back to [[Rigveda (ऋग्वेदः)|Rigveda]], [[Upanishads (उपनिषदः)|Upanishads]]<nowiki/>and [[Puranas (पुराणानि)|Puranas]]. The knowledge of marma was being widely used during a war to target enemies, for self-defence, for surgical procedures and also as a treatment modality ever since the Vedic period.  The importance of marma from diagnostic and therapeutic perspective is huge. When certain type of marma is affected, specific signs and symptoms arise and making use of this feature a therapy is developed where controlled pressure on these points is created to activate the energy concentrated at these points. This can relieve the probable blocks in the energy pathways linked with marmas in body and help get rid of certain symptoms like pains, aches and disabilities. This is called as marma therapy and it is practiced in may parts of Bharata and outside Bharata as well. It is a modality of treatment which does not require any herb or drug and hence it is widely popular. Soem eople compare it with that of accupressure therapy from Traditional chinese medicine but both these are significantly different. To practice marma therapy, in depth knowledge of marmas is essential. 'Marmaparipalanam' i.e. protection of marmas is equated to the selfcare or self protection in Ayurveda.
+
Marma or the vital points is one of the important and exclusive topic discussed in Ayurveda. The references for the fundamentals of knowledge about Marma can be traced back to [[Rigveda (ऋग्वेदः)]], [[Upanishads (उपनिषदः)]] and [[Puranas (पुराणानि)|Puranas (पुराणाः)]]. The knowledge of marma was being widely used during a war to target enemies, for self-defence, for surgical procedures and also as a treatment modality ever since the Vedic period.  The importance of marma from diagnostic and therapeutic perspective is huge. When certain type of marma is affected, specific signs and symptoms arise and making use of this feature a therapy is developed where controlled pressure on these points is created to activate the energy concentrated at these points. This can relieve the probable blocks in the energy pathways linked with marmas in body and help get rid of certain symptoms like pains, aches and disabilities. This is called as marma therapy and it is practiced in may parts of Bharata and outside Bharata as well. It is a modality of treatment which does not require any herb or drug and hence it is widely popular. Some people compare it with that of acupressure therapy from Traditional Chinese
 +
 
 +
medicine but both these are significantly different. To practice marma therapy, in depth knowledge of marmas is essential. 'Marmaparipalanam' (मर्मपरिपालनम्) i.e. protection of marmas is equated to the selfcare or self protection in Ayurveda.
  
 
== इतिहासः॥ History ==
 
== इतिहासः॥ History ==
−
Practice of marma therapy has been mentioned in various Vedic texts alongside Ayurveda.
+
The knowledge of marmas had been acquired by not just the worriers of ancient time in Bharata but also devatas since time immemorial. The original description of marma is found in the [[Rigveda (ऋग्वेदः)|rigveda]] where [[Indra (इन्द्रः)]] is said to have used an ayudh (आयुधम् weapon) named Vajra fight demon [[Indra and Vrtrasura (इन्द्रः वृत्रासुरः च)|Vratra (वृत्रः)]]. The asura was killed by Indra's vajra when it was targeted on the marmasthana of vratra located in between his shoulders. <ref name=":0">Dr. Manjunath Gopal Sutar et al / Int. J. of Allied Med. Sci. and Clin. Research Vol-8(3) 2020 [615-618]</ref> Rigveda mentions of varma or shield or body armor used for protection of marma points.<ref>Rigveda 6/75/18</ref> Few Upanishads like Shandilya upanishad, Garbha Upanishad, Kshurik Upanishad provide information about the concept and anatomical aspects of marma points. Agni purana mentions 10 locations of marma where the Prana reside.<ref>Agni Purana (370.45-46)</ref>  Fire (agni) was used as the greatest weapon to injure the marmasthanas in wars.  The great Indian epics mahabharata and bhagavata gita describe that elephants, horses and soldiers wore varma (वर्म) to protect marma (मर्म) points. Arjuna and Karna were only vulnerable to be killed through marma exposure.  There are also references about death of Shravan kumara (श्रवणकुमारः), Ravana (रावणः), Shreekrishna (श्रीकृष्णः) happening due to injury to vital marma points. 
 +
 
 +
'''The story of Shravana kumara, Ravana and Shrikrishna'''
 +
 
 +
Shravana kumara took hi parents to the pilgrimage on their wish. While on journey once the parents were thirsty and wanted water. So Shravana took rest and went near the river to get some water for them. King Dashratha (दशरथः), father of lord Rama was on hunting that time and was chasing an animal. That time he thought that the animal is near river and hence aimed at it but unfortunately it was shravana kumar. The arrow hit his forehead at a point known as Sthapani marma (स्थपनी मर्म). The peculiarity of this marma point is that, if this marma is hit by a weapon then it should not be removed or else the person may die while if it is kept at that time the person survives (विशल्यघ्न मर्म Vishlyaghna marma). On realizing that the arrow has inadvertently hit Shravan kumara, in guilt king Dasharatha removed the arrow from the point and Shravana kumara died. Thus knowledge of marmas was considered highly essential.
 +
 
 +
Similarly there are references in epics that Ravana died only when the arrow targeted by lord Rama hit Ravana's Nabhi (नाभी)and not by any other method. Nabhi is naval which is considered to be one of the Sadyapranahara marma (सद्यप्राणहर मर्म)  . It is known in marma science that when such type of marma is hit it immediately causes death.
  
−
Rigveda, one of the oldest Vedic Sanskrit texts composed during 1500 – 1000 BCE has mentions of varma or shield or body armor used for protection of marma points. (Rigveda 6/75/18). Few Upanishads like Shandilya upanishad, Garbha Upanishad, Kshurik Upanishad provide information about the concept and anatomical aspects of marma points. Agni purana mentions 10 locations of marma where the Prana reside.(ref?) In Valmiki Ramayana there are few verses during war wherein there is mention of marma points being used as targets for injury. In Mahabharata, during the (Bhishma Parva) 114/56, 119/5, 119/47, 119/61, 119/65) (48), (Drona Parva 92/7, 92/22), (Karna Parva 19/61), (Shalya Parva 32/63, 36/64) has many references about protective shields used to cover marma sthana of both humans and animals.
+
The kshipra marma (क्षिप्र मर्म) is known as Kalantara pranahara (कालन्तरप्राणहर मर्म) type of marma. It means that an injury to this type of marma leads to death within few days of hit. The legend is mentioned that  when lord shree krishna was resting in a jungle reclining on a tree bark, a hunter saw lord krishna's feet and it appeared like a rabbit to him from distance. Considering it a prey his arrow hit the point of lord krishna's feet and it was the ksipra marma. Owing to this marma injury, in few days lord krishna left to heavenly abode.<ref name=":0" /> <ref>https://rasayan97.wordpress.com/2020/08/22/22-8-20/</ref>
  
−
There is a traditional and the oldest martial art form of India named Kalari or kalaripaywhich describes 365 marma points. The kalari warriors used this knowledge to harm their enemies. Also, they were nurtured using the same technique for healing wounds of the battle.
+
'''Ramayana and Mahabharata'''
 +
 
 +
In Valmiki Ramayana there are few verses during war wherein there is mention of marma points being used as targets for injury. In Mahabharata there are multiple references where one can find the use of protective shields used by worriers and animals for protection of marma points during war.<ref>Mahabharata (Bhishma Parva 114/56, 119/5, 119/47, 119/61, 119/65;    Drona Parva 92/7, 92/22; Karna Parva 19/61; Shalya Parva 32/63, 36/64)</ref> 
  
 
== निरुक्ती॥ Nirukti ==
 
== निरुक्ती॥ Nirukti ==
Line 15: Line 25:
  
 
: उणा ० ४ । १४४ । इति मनिन् ।) स्वरूपम् ।
 
: उणा ० ४ । १४४ । इति मनिन् ।) स्वरूपम् ।
−
: तत्त्वम् । यथा, नैषधे । २ । ९ ।
+
: तत्त्वम् । जीवस्थानम् ।   Shabdakalpadruma Pg 641 <ref>[https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%83/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80 Shabdakalpadruma Pg 641]</ref>
−
: “मृगया न विगीयते नृपै-
+
: The word marma is derived from the root 'Mru' (मृ) which means to die. Thus the vital points of body which can lead to death on damage are called as marmas.
−
: रपि धर्म्मागममर्म्मपारगैः ।
 
−
: स्मरसुन्दर ! मां यदत्यज
 
−
: स्तव धर्म्मः सदयो दयोज्ज्वलः ॥”
 
−
: सन्धिस्थानम् । इति लिङ्गादिसंग्रहे अमर-
 
−
: भरतौ ॥ जीवस्थानम् । इति राजनिर्घण्टः ॥ *  Shabdakalpadruma Pg 641 <ref>[https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%83/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80 Shabdakalpadruma Pg 641]</ref>
 
  
 
== परिभाषा॥ Definition ==
 
== परिभाषा॥ Definition ==
 +
The term marma is defined by Acharya Sushruta in Sushruta samhita in following way,
  
−
* मारयन्तीति मर्माण्युच्यन्ते – Sush Shar 6/3 (dalhan teeka) Meaning - Marma points are the vital points in the human body which when injured can lead to death.
+
* On the basis of  potential to cause death- The points in body which when injured can lead to death are called as Marmas. The commentator Arundatta on acharya Vagbhata’s Ashtnaga Hrudayam says that, even if injury to marma points does not cause death, it causes severe pain giving a person the experience of death.
  
−
* Also, if injury to marma sthana or point does not cause death, then it causes severe pain giving a person the experience of death.(Asht.hrud.sha. arundatta teeka)
+
<blockquote>मारयन्तीति मर्माण्युच्यन्ते । <ref>Nibandhasangraha commentary by Dalhana on Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 3)</ref></blockquote>Even though the definition states that injury to a marma leads to death, there are certain types of marma like vaiklyakara marma (वैकल्यकर मर्म) and rujakar marma (रुजाकर मर्म ) Discussed in next part of the article) that do not lead to death but cause some morbidity or pain on injury. With right treatment by a skilled Vaidya these issues can be resolved.
 +
* On the basis of composition and nature- A confluence of mamsa (मांस muscles), sira (सिरा blood vessels), snayu (स्नायु ligaments), asthi- sandhi (अस्थि-संधि bones-joints) is known as marma sthana. These marma sthana is where prana(?) resides, thus any kind of injury or infliction will lead to death.
 +
<blockquote>मर्माणि मांससिरास्नाय्वस्थिसन्धिसन्निपाताः; तेषु स्वभावत एव विशेषेण प्राणास्तिष्ठन्ति; तस्मान्मर्मस्वभिहतास्तांस्तान् भावानापद्यन्ते || (Sush. Samh .6.15)<ref>Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 15)</ref></blockquote>
  
−
* मर्माणि मांससिरास्नाय्वस्थिसन्धिसन्निपाताः; तेषु स्वभावत एव विशेषेण प्राणास्तिष्ठन्ति; तस्मान्मर्मस्वभिहतास्तांस्तान् भावानापद्यन्ते || (sush. sha .6.15)
+
* At the elemental level marma is composed of [[Jala (जलम्)|Soma or jala]] (सोम/जल) (kapha-water element), maruta (मारुत) (vata- or air element), [[Agni (अग्निः)|tejas (तेजः)]]  (agni/pitta -or fire element) as [[Doshas (दोषाः)|tridosha (त्रिदोषाः)]] and [[rajas (रजः)]], [[Sattva (सत्त्वम्)|satva (सत्त्वम्)]], [[tamas (तमः)]] as [[Trigunas (त्रिगुणाः)|triguna (त्रिगुणाः)]] resides along with bhuta (पंचमहाभूतानि [[Panchamahabhutas (पञ्चमहाभूतानि)|panchamahabhuta]]) and [[Atman (आत्मन्)|atma]] (आत्मन् soul precisely). This is precisely the reason why marma points should be protected from any injury. <ref>Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 35-36)</ref>
  
−
A confluence of mamsa (muscles), sira (blood vessels), snayu (ligaments), asthi- sandhi (bones-joints) is known as marma sthana. These marma sthana is where prana(?) resides, thus any kind of injury or infliction will lead to death.
+
== प्राणायतनानि॥ Marmas as vital points or energy points ==
−
 
+
According to acharya Charaka, there are 10 seats of prana (प्राणः life energy) in body viz. murdha (मूर्धा head), kantha (कंठ throat), hrdaya (हृदयम् heart), nabhi (नाभिः umbilicus), guda (गुदम् anus), basti (बस्तिः urinary bladder), [[ojas (ओजः)]], [[Shukra Dhatu (शुक्र धातुः)|shukra]] (शुक्रम् semen), shonita (शोणितम्) or [[Rakta Dhatu (रक्त धातु)|rakta]] (रक्तम् blood), [[Mansa Dhatu (मांस धातु)|mamsa]] (मांसः muscles) and among them the first six are the marma points. <blockquote>दश प्राणायतनानि; तद्यथा- मूर्धा, कण्ठः, हृदयं, नाभिः, गुदं, बस्तिः, ओजः, शुक्रं, शोणितं, मांसमिति| तेषु षट् पूर्वाणि मर्मसङ्ख्यातानि||९|| <ref>Charaka Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 7 Sutra 9)</ref></blockquote>
−
* At the elemental level marma is composed of Soma (kapha-water element), maruta(vata- or air element), tej(pitta -or fire element) as tridosha and raja, satva , tamas as triguna resides along with bhuta(panchamahabhuta) and atma (soul precisely). This is precisely the reason why marma points should be protected from any injury. (Sush sha 6.35-36)
 
−
 
 
−
* दश प्राणायतनानि; तद्यथा- मूर्धा, कण्ठः, हृदयं, नाभिः, गुदं, बस्तिः, ओजः, शुक्रं, शोणितं, मांसमिति|
 
−
 
 
−
तेषु षट् पूर्वाणि मर्मसङ्ख्यातानि||९|| cha sha 7.9
 
−
 
 
−
Also, according to acharya Charaka there are 10 seats of prana (energy points) which are murdha(head), kantha(throat), hriday(heart), naabhi(umbilicus), guda(anus), basti(urinary bladder), ojas(?), shukra(semen), shonita(blood), mamsa(muscles) and among them the first six are the marma points.
 
−
 
 
−
* Even though the definition states that injury to a marma leads to death, but there are certain types of marma like vaiklyakara marma and rujakar marma for example wherein with right treatment of a skilled Vaidya, an individual can be saved.
 
  
 
== प्रविभागाः॥ Classification ==
 
== प्रविभागाः॥ Classification ==
−
There are 107 marmas described in Ayurveda. Acharya Charaka whereas gives importance to three mainly, named Murdha(head), hriday(heart), Vasti/Basti (urinary bladder).
+
There are 107 marmas described in Ayurveda. Acharya Sushruta has categorized 107 marma sthana systemically in three ways, Every marma has its own predominant [[Panchamahabhutas (पञ्चमहाभूतानि)|mahabhuta]]. Understanding the composition of marma from mahabhuta perspective is considered highly important in order to give treatment on marma injury or to practice marma therapy. Acharya Charaka gives importance to only three of the 107 marmas namely, Murdha (मूर्धा head), hridaya (हृदयम् heart), Basti (बस्तिः urinary bladder). The marmas are categorized into various types based on various criteria as below,
  
 +
=== धातुभेदेन॥ Based on Composition of the marma ===
 +
Marmas are basically certain spots in the body which can have dominance of one or the other body elements like mamsa (मांसः muscule) or sira (सिरा vessel) or asthi (अस्थिः bone) etc. Based on the dominance of one or the other body element, marmas are categorized in 5 types as follows.<ref name=":1">Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 3-7)</ref> A type of marma and total number of marmas of that type are given below.
 +
# मांस मर्माणि ॥ Mamsa Marma (Muscle predominant) - 11
 +
# सिरा मर्माणि॥ Sira Marma (Vascular predominant) - 41
 +
# स्नायु मर्माणि॥ Snayu Marma (Ligament predominant) - 27
 +
# अस्थि मर्माणि॥ Asthi Marma (Bone area predominant) - 08
 +
# सन्धि मर्माणि॥ Sandhi Marma (Joint area predominant) – 20
  
−
Whereas Acharya Sushruta has categorised 107 marma sthana systemically in three ways,
+
=== स्थानभेदेन॥ Based on Location of Marma ===
−
 
+
All 107 marmas are located at different sites all over the body. Based on the location of the marma over body parts, the marmas are categorized into 3 different types as below, <ref name=":1" />
−
Every marma has its own predominant mahabhuta, which later is essential in the treatment aspect.
+
# Shakha gata (शाखा गत) - The word Shakha suggest upper and lower limbs viz both hands and legs. Thus marmas present in Both upper and lower limbs are known as Shakhagata marmas. - 44
−
 
+
# Madhya shareera (मध्य शरीर) – Marmas present in thorax and abdomen (trunk region) - 26
−
=== Based on Composition of the marma (sush.sha.6.3-5) ===
+
# Urdhva jatrugata (उर्ध्व जत्रुगत) – Jatru (जत्रुः) is a part of body at the base of neck. Hence marmas present in Head and neck region are known as Urdhwa jatrugata marmas – 37
−
 
+
=== अभिघातस्य परिणामभेदेन॥ Based on effect of injury on marma ===
−
# Mamsa Marma (Muscle predominant) - 11
+
The marmas are known as vital points or even mortal spots. Injury to marmas causes various different effects and even death. The effect of marma injury will depend upon what type of marma is damaged. Thus based on the effect on injury, the marmas are categorized into 5 types as follows,
−
# Sira Marma (Vascular predominat) - 41
+
# Sadhya pranahara (सद्यप्राणहर) marma – leads to immediate death if injury to these marma sthana happens. Where “sadhya” meaning instant, “prana” meaning life force or energy, and “hara” meaning lost or taken away the name itself suggest immediate death causing marmas. – 19 in number
−
# Snayu Marma (Ligament predominant) - 27
+
# Kalantara pranahara (कालान्तरप्राणहर) marma – leads to delayed death on getting injured. Here kalantara” means delay or after some time.  – 33 in number
−
# Asthi Marma (Bone area predominant) - 08
+
# Vishalyaghna (विशल्यघ्न) marma- If these type of marmas are injured with a weapon they can cause death if the weapon or part of weapon hitting the marma is removed. If that part is kept unmoved or as it is person can survive. Here, 'Shalya' means foreign body which is a part of weapon used for injury – 03 in number
−
# Sandhi Marma (Joint area predominant) – 20
+
# Vaikalyakara (वैकल्यकर)Marma – leads to permanent deformity or morbidity on injury. Where 'Vaikalya' means disability - 44 in number
−
 
+
# Rujakara (रुजाकर) marma – leads to severe pain when injured. here “ruja” means pain. –  08 in number
−
=== Based on Location of Marma (sush. shar.6.7) ===
 
−
 
 
−
# Shakha gata - marmas present in Both upper and lower limbs - 44
 
−
# Madhya shareera – Marmas present in thorax and abdomen (trunk region) - 26
 
−
# Urdhva jatrugata – marmas present in Head and neck region – 37
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
=== Based on effect of injury on marma ===
 
−
 
 
−
# Sadhya pranahara marma – leads to immediate death on injury to these marma sthana, where “sadhya” meaning instant, “prana” meaning life force or energy, and “hara” meaning lost or taken away. – 19 in number
 
−
# Kalantara pranahara marma – leads to delayed death on getting injured. Here kalantara” means delay.  – 33 in number
 
−
# Vishalyaghna marma- marma injured with foreign body, when removed from the area leads to death. Here “vishalya” means foreign body – 03 in number
 
−
# Vaikalyakara Marma – leads to permanent deformity on injury. Where Vaikalya” means disability - 44 in number
 
−
# Rujakara marma – leads to severe pain when injured. here “ruja” means pain. –  08 in number
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|+List of marmas of different types based on the effect on their injury
 
|'''Sadhya pranahara marma'''
 
|'''Sadhya pranahara marma'''
 
|'''Kalantara pranahara marma'''
 
|'''Kalantara pranahara marma'''
Line 82: Line 74:
 
|'''Rujakara marma'''
 
|'''Rujakara marma'''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Shrungatak(4)''
+
|''Shrungatak(4) (शृङ्गाटक)''
−
|''Vaksha (8)''
+
|''Vaksha (8) (वक्ष)''
−
|''Lohitaksha(4)''
+
|''Lohitaksha(4) (लोहिताक्ष)''
−
|''Utsksepa(2)''
+
| ''(उत्क्षेपः)''
−
|''Gulfa(2)''
+
|''Gulfa(2) (गुल्फः)''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''adhipati''
+
|''adhipati (अधिपतिः)''
−
|''Seemant (5)''
+
|''Seemant (5) (सीमन्त)''
−
|''Aani(4)''
+
|''Aani(4) (आणि)''
−
|''sthapani''
+
|''sthapani (स्थपनी)''
−
|''Manibandha(2)''
+
|''Manibandha(2) (मणिबंधः)''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Shankha(2)''
+
|''Shankha(2) (शंखौ)''
−
|''Talahriday(4)''
+
|''Talahriday(4) (तलहृदयम्)''
−
|''Urvi(4)''
+
|''Urvi(4) (उर्वी)''
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Kurchashira(4)''
+
|''Kurchashira(4) (कूर्चशिरः)''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Matukayen (8)''
+
|''Matukayen (8) (मातृकाः)''
−
|''Kshipra(4)''
+
|''Kshipra(4) (क्षिप्रम्)''
−
|''Kurcha(4)''
+
|''Kurcha(4) (कुर्चा)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Guda''
+
|''Guda (गुदम्)''
−
|''Indrabasti(4)''
+
|''Indrabasti(4) (इन्द्रबस्तिः)''
−
|''Jaanu(2)''
+
|''Jaanu(2) (जानु)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Hruday''
+
|''Hruday (हृदयम्)''
−
|''Katiktarun(2)''
+
|''Katiktarun(2) (कटिकतरुणम्)''
−
|''Vitapa(2)''
+
|''Vitapa(2) (विटप)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''basti''
+
|''basti (बस्तिः)''
−
|''Parshavasandi(2)''
+
|''Parshavasandi(2) (पार्श्वसन्धिः)''
−
|''Kurpara(2)''
+
|''Kurpara(2) (कूर्पर)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''naabhi''
+
|''naabhi (नाभिः)''
−
|''Nitamb(2)''
+
|''Nitamb(2) (नितम्ब)''
−
|''Kukundara(2)''
+
|''Kukundara(2) (कुकुन्दर)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|-
 
|-
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Bhrihati(2)''
+
|''Bhrihati(2) (बृहति)''
−
|''Kakshadhara(2)''
+
|''Kakshadhara(2) (कक्षधर)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
Line 138: Line 130:
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Vidhura(2)''
+
|''Vidhura(2) (विधुर)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
Line 144: Line 136:
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Krukatika(2)''
+
|''Krukatika(2) (कृकाटिका)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
Line 150: Line 142:
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Amsa(2)''
+
|''Amsa(2) (अंसः)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
Line 156: Line 148:
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Phalaka(2)''
+
|''Phalaka(2) (फलकः)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
Line 162: Line 154:
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Apanga(2)''
+
|''Apanga(2) (अपाङ्गः)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
Line 168: Line 160:
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Neela(2)''
+
|''Neela(2) (नीला)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
Line 174: Line 166:
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Manya(2)''
+
|''Manya(2) (मन्या)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
Line 180: Line 172:
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Phana(2)''
+
|''Phana(2) (फणा)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
Line 186: Line 178:
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
−
|''Avarta(2)''
+
|''Avarta(2) (आवर्त)''
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|  
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
== Marmas of upper extremity ==
+
== Marmas in hand ==
 +
Various marmas located in upper limbs or hands (from shoulders to fingertips) are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|'''Name'''
 
|'''Name'''
Line 197: Line 190:
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 +
|'''Effect on injury'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''kShipra''
+
|''kShipra (क्षिप्र)''
 
|In between thumb and index finger
 
|In between thumb and index finger
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Snayu and kalantara pranahara
+
|Snayu  
−
|Soma,agni
+
|kalantara pranahara
 +
|*Soma,**agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Talahriday''
+
|''Talahriday (तलहृदयम्)''
 
|Mid palm
 
|Mid palm
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Mamsa and kalantara pranahara
+
|Mamsa
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Kurcha''
+
|''Kurcha (कूर्चा)''
 
|Above on both sides of kshipra
 
|Above on both sides of kshipra
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
−
|Snayu and vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu  
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|Soma
 
|Soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Kurcha sshira''
+
|''Kurcha sshira (कूर्चशिर)''
 
|Below on one side of wrist joint
 
|Below on one side of wrist joint
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Snayu and vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu  
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|Soma
 
|Soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Manibandha''
+
|''Manibandha (मणिबंध)''
 
|Wrist joint
 
|Wrist joint
 
|2 angula
 
|2 angula
−
|Sandhi and vaikalyakara
+
|Sandhi
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|Soma
 
|Soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''indrabasti''
+
|''indrabasti (इन्द्रबस्तिः)''
 
|Mid of forearm
 
|Mid of forearm
 
|2 angula
 
|2 angula
−
|Mamsa and kalantara pranahara
+
|Mamsa  
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''kurpara''
+
|''kurpara (कूर्पर)''
 
|Elbow joint
 
|Elbow joint
 
|3 angula
 
|3 angula
−
|Sandhi and vaikalyakara
+
|Sandhi  
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|Soma
 
|Soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''AAni''
+
|''AAni (आणि)''
 
|3 angula above elbow joint both  sides.
 
|3 angula above elbow joint both  sides.
 
|3 angula
 
|3 angula
−
|Snayu and vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu  
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|Soma
 
|Soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Bahvi''
+
|''Bahvi (बाहवी)''
 
|Mid arm
 
|Mid arm
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira and vaikalyakara
+
|Sira  
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Lohitaksha''
+
|''Lohitaksha (लोहिताक्ष)''
 
|Above bahvi marma, adjacent to  auxillary fold.
 
|Above bahvi marma, adjacent to  auxillary fold.
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira and vaikalyakara
+
|Sira  
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|Soma
 
|Soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''kakshadhara''
+
|''kakshadhara (कक्षाधर)''
 
|In between chest and arm pit
 
|In between chest and arm pit
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Snayu and vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu  
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="6" |*Soma (सोम)=Jala mahabhuta or water element, ** (अग्निः)=Tejas mahabhuta or fire element
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
== Marmas of lower extremity ==
+
== Marmas in legs ==
 +
Various marmas located in lower limbs or legs (from pelvis to feet) are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|'''Name'''
 
|'''Name'''
Line 272: Line 280:
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 +
|'''Effect on Injury'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta'''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''kShipra''
+
|''kShipra (क्षिप्र)''
 
|Between great toe and second toe
 
|Between great toe and second toe
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Snayu and kalantara
+
|Snayu
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Talahriday''
+
|''Talahriday (तलहृदयम्)''
 
|Mid of the foot sole
 
|Mid of the foot sole
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Mamsa and kalantara pranahara
+
|Mamsa  
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Kurcha''
+
|''Kurcha (कूर्च)''
 
|Above both sides of kshipra
 
|Above both sides of kshipra
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
−
|Snayu and vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|Soma
 
|Soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Kurcha sshira''
+
|''Kurcha shira (कूर्चशिर)''
 
|Both sides of ankle joint
 
|Both sides of ankle joint
 
|1 angula
 
|1 angula
−
|Snayu and vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|Soma
 
|Soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Gulfa''
+
|''Gulfa (गुल्फ)''
 
|Ankle joint
 
|Ankle joint
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
−
|Sandhi and rujakara
+
|Sandhi
 +
|rujakara
 
|Agni,vaayu
 
|Agni,vaayu
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Indrabasti''
+
|''Indrabasti (इन्द्रबस्तिः)''
 
|Mid of thigh in the line of heel
 
|Mid of thigh in the line of heel
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Mamsa and kalantara pranahara
+
|Mamsa  
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Jaanu''
+
|''Jaanu (जानु)''
 
|Knee joint
 
|Knee joint
 
|3 angula
 
|3 angula
−
|Sandhi and vaikalyakara
+
|Sandhi
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Aani''
+
|''Aani (आणि)''
 
|3 fingers above knee joint both  sides
 
|3 fingers above knee joint both  sides
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Snayu and vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu  
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Urvi''
+
|''Urvi (उर्वी)''
 
|Mid of thigh
 
|Mid of thigh
 
|1 angula
 
|1 angula
−
|Sira and vaikalya kara
+
|Sira
 +
|vaikalya kara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Lohitaksha''
+
|''Lohitaksha (लोहिताक्ष)''
 
|Root of thigh above urvi marma,  below hip joint
 
|Root of thigh above urvi marma,  below hip joint
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira and vaikalyakara
+
|Sira  
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''vitapa''
+
|''vitapa (विटप)''
 
|In between groin and testes
 
|In between groin and testes
 
|1 angula
 
|1 angula
−
|Snayu and vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu
 +
|vaikalyakara
 
|somas
 
|somas
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
== Marma sthana of head and neck ==
+
== Marmas of head and neck ==
 +
Multiple marmas are located in head and neck region. These are known as Urdhwa-jatrugata marmas (उर्ध्वजत्रुगत मर्माणि). The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|'''Name'''
 
|'''Name'''
Line 347: Line 368:
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 +
|'''Effect on Injury'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Nilamanya  (4)''
+
|''Nilamanya  (4) (नीलामन्ये)''
 
|High up in neck either side of  trachea
 
|High up in neck either side of  trachea
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
 
|Sira and vaikalyakara
 
|Sira and vaikalyakara
 +
|Vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Matrukay(8)''
+
|''Matrukay(8) (मातृका)''
 
|Anterior external, post external
 
|Anterior external, post external
  
Line 363: Line 386:
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
 
|Sira and sadhya pranahara
 
|Sira and sadhya pranahara
 +
|Sadya pranahara
 
|Agni
 
|Agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Krukatika(2)''
+
|''Krukatika(2) (कृकाटिका)''
 
|Junction of head and neck
 
|Junction of head and neck
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sandhi and vaikalyakara
+
|Sandhi  
 +
|Vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Vidhura(2)''
+
|''Vidhura(2) (विधुरः)''
 
|Below and behind the ear
 
|Below and behind the ear
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Snayu,sira, vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu,sira
 +
|Vaikalyakara
 
|somas
 
|somas
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Phana(2)''
+
|''Phana(2) (फणा)''
 
|Both nasal passage near the roof of  nose
 
|Both nasal passage near the roof of  nose
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira, vaikalyakara
+
|Sira
 +
|Vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Apanga(2)''
+
|''Apanga(2) (अपाङ्ग)''
 
|Lateral end of eyebrows
 
|Lateral end of eyebrows
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira, vaukalyakara
+
|Sira
 +
|Vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Avarta(2)''
+
|''Avarta(2) (आवर्त)''
 
|Above and below eyebrows
 
|Above and below eyebrows
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sandhi, vaikalyakara
+
|Sandhi
 +
|Vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Utskhepa(2)''
+
|''Utskhepa(2) (उत्क्षेप)''
 
|Above temple
 
|Above temple
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Snayu vishalyaghna
+
|Snayu  
 +
|Vishalyaghna
 
|vayu
 
|vayu
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Shankha(2)''
+
|''Shankha(2) (शंखौ)''
 
|In between ear and forehead
 
|In between ear and forehead
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sandhi, sadhya pranahara
+
|Sandhi
 +
|Sadya Pranahara
 
|agni
 
|agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Sthapani''
+
|''Sthapani (स्थपनी)''
 
|In between eyebrows
 
|In between eyebrows
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira, vishalyaghna
+
|Sira
 +
|Vishalyaghna
 
|vayu
 
|vayu
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Seemanta (5)''
+
|''Seemanta (5) (सीमन्त)''
 
|5 joints in skull vault
 
|5 joints in skull vault
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
−
|Sandhi, kalantara pranahara
+
|Sandhi
 +
|Kalantara pranahara
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Shrungatak(4)''
+
|''Shrungatak(4) (शृङ्गाटक)''
 
|Venous junction of nose, ear, eyes,  tongue
 
|Venous junction of nose, ear, eyes,  tongue
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
−
|Sira, sadhya pranahara
+
|Sira
 +
|Sadya pranahara
 
|agni
 
|agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''adhipati''
+
|''adhipati (अधिपतिः)''
 
|Inside cranium
 
|Inside cranium
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sandhi and sadhya prana hara
+
|Sandhi  
 +
|Sadya pranahara
 
|agni
 
|agni
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
== Marmas of the abdomen region ==
 
== Marmas of the abdomen region ==
 +
Marmas located in abdomen or between chest and hips/lower limbs are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|'''Name'''
 
|'''Name'''
Line 438: Line 474:
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 +
|'''Effect on Injury'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Guda''
+
|''Guda (गुदम्)''
 
|Anal region
 
|Anal region
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
−
|Mamsa and sadhya pranahara
+
|Mamsa
 +
|Sadya pranahara
 
|agni
 
|agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Basti/vasti
+
|Basti/vasti (बस्तिः)
 
|Bladder
 
|Bladder
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
−
|Snayu, sadhya pranahara
+
|Snayu
 +
|Sadya pranahara
 
|Agni
 
|Agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Naabhi
+
|Naabhi (नाभिः)
 
|umbilicus
 
|umbilicus
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
−
|Sira and sadhya pranahara
+
|Sira  
 +
|Sadya pranahara
 
|Agni
 
|Agni
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
== Marmas of the thorax region ==
 
== Marmas of the thorax region ==
 +
Thorax means chest region. The marmas locate din this region are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|'''Name'''
 
|'''Name'''
Line 465: Line 506:
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 +
|'''Effect on Injury'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''hridaya''
+
|''hridaya (हृदयम्)''
 
|heart
 
|heart
 
|4 angula
 
|4 angula
−
|Sira, sadhya pranahara
+
|Sira
 +
|Sadya pranahara
 
|Agni
 
|Agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Stanamula(2)''
+
|''Stanamula(2) (स्तनमूल)''
 
|Bilaterally two fingers below the
 
|Bilaterally two fingers below the
  
 
Stana (breast)
 
Stana (breast)
 
|2 angula
 
|2 angula
−
|Sira, kalantara pranahara
+
|Sira
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma, agni
 
|Soma, agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Stanarohita (2)''
+
|''Stanarohita (2) (स्तनरोहित)''
 
|Two fingers above the
 
|Two fingers above the
  
 
Nipples of both the Stana Granthi
 
Nipples of both the Stana Granthi
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira, kalantara pranahara
+
|Sira
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Apasthamba (2)''
+
|''Apasthamba (2) (अपस्तंभ)''
 
|Both sides of chest
 
|Both sides of chest
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira, kalantara pranahara
+
|Sira
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma, agni
 
|Soma, agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Apalapa (2)''
+
|''Apalapa (2) (अपलाप)''
 
|Both axillary region
 
|Both axillary region
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira, kalantara pranahara
+
|Sira
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
== Marmas of back region ==
 
== Marmas of back region ==
 +
Various marmas located on back and lower back regiuon are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|'''Name'''
 
|'''Name'''
Line 508: Line 556:
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Pramana'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 
|'''Composition'''
 +
|'''Effect on Injury'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|'''Mahabhuta predominance'''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Katiktaran(2)''
+
|''Katiktaran(2) (कटिकतरुण)''
 
|Both side of vertebral column to  each hip bone
 
|Both side of vertebral column to  each hip bone
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Asthi, kalantara prana hara
+
|Asthi
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Kukundara(2)''
+
|''Kukundara(2) (कुकुंदर)''
 
|Lateral side of each femur
 
|Lateral side of each femur
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sandhi, vaikalyakara
+
|Sandhi
 +
|Vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Nitamba(2)''
+
|''Nitamba(2) (नितंब)''
 
|Above hip bone each side
 
|Above hip bone each side
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Asthi, kalantara pranahara
+
|Asthi
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Parshavasandhi(2)''
+
|''Parshavasandhi(2) (पार्श्वसन्धिः)''
 
|Gluteal region joining lower part of  two flanks
 
|Gluteal region joining lower part of  two flanks
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira, kalantara pranahara
+
|Sira
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Brihati (2)''
+
|''Brihati (2) (बृहति)''
 
|Base of each breast
 
|Base of each breast
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Sira, kalantara pranahara
+
|Sira
 +
|kalantara pranahara
 
|Soma,agni
 
|Soma,agni
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Amsaphalaka(2)''
+
|''Amsaphalaka(2) (अंसफलक)''
 
|Near scapular region each side of vertebral  column
 
|Near scapular region each side of vertebral  column
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Asthi, vaikalyakara
+
|Asthi
 +
|Vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|-
 
|-
−
|''Amsa(2)''
+
|''Amsa(2) (अंस)''
 
|In between scapular region and  shoulder
 
|In between scapular region and  shoulder
 
|½ angula
 
|½ angula
−
|Snayu, vaikalyakara
+
|Snayu
 +
|Vaikalyakara
 
|soma
 
|soma
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
== Measurement of marmas|''Pramana'' ==
+
== मर्मप्रमाणम् ॥ Measurement of marmas ==
−
Urvi, kurchashira, vitapa, kakshadhara, parshva and stana moola each measure 1 angula.
+
Ayurveda acharyas have clearly stated the measurement of marmas in terms of anguli pramana (system of measurement with the use of finger). Knowledge of this is important in order to decide the effect of injury if hit on that part and also to protect the points.
  
−
Manibandha and gilfa marma are 2 angula each.
+
* Urvi, kurchashira, vitapa, kakshadhara, parshva and stana moola each measure 1 angula.
 +
* Manibandha and gilfa marma are 2 angula each.
 +
* Kurpara and jaanu marma are 3 angula each.
 +
* Hriday, basti,kurcha, guda , naabhi, shira are 4 angula.
 +
* Shrungataka measures 5 angula.
 +
* Seemant and 12 marmas of head and neck region are mushti pramana.
 +
* Other remaining marmas measure ½ angula.
  
−
Kurpara and jaanu marma are 3 angula each.
+
'''(Here Anguli pramana is “swa anguli pramana” meaning length equal to the transverse length of one’s own middle phalanx (middle segment of bone) of middle finger.)'''
  
−
Hriday, basti,kurcha, guda , naabhi, shira are 4 angula.
+
== मर्माभिघातजलक्षणानि॥ Indicators of marma sthana injury ==
  
−
Shrungataka measures 5 angula.
+
There are certain symptoms which indicate injury to marma sthanas. These symptoms occur when any of the marma is inflicted. Such as when sadhya pranahara marmas are injured, there occurs inability to perceive objects, alterations in intellect and various kind of pain in and around the marma sthana. When kalantara pranahara marma is afflicted, dhatu kshaya (depletion of sapta dhatus) occurs along with severe pain which further leads to death of the individual.<ref>Sushruta Samhita (Sutrasthanama Adhyaya 25 Sutra 34-35)</ref> Knowledge of these symptoms is essential for a Vaidya to plan further treatment.
  
−
Seemant and 12 marmas of head and neck region are mushti pramana.
+
There are few general indicators of marma abhighata or infliction to marmas which are as follows,
  
−
Other remaining marmas measure ½ angula.
+
* Bhrama (भ्रम dizziness)
 +
* Pralapa(प्रलाप delirium)
 +
* Pramoha (प्रमोहः insensibility)
 +
* Vicheshtana (विचेष्टन irregular movements)
 +
* murcha (मूर्च्छा giddiness)
 +
* muscular laxity ( शैथिल्य looseness)
 +
* Severe pain
 +
* bleeding from the sthana etc.
 +
* Also, Numbness of body, heaviness, cold flushes, excessive sweat, vomiting, breathlessness are few symptoms which indicate there has been an injury to marma.<ref>Ashtanga Samgraha (Sharirasthana Adhyaya 7 Sutra 47)</ref> 
  
−
'''(Here Anguli pramana is “swa anguli pramana” meaning length equal to the transverse length of one’s own middle phalanx (middle segment of bone) of middle finger.)'''
+
== मर्ममहात्म्यम्॥ Importance ==
 +
'''शूले ॥ Pain intensity'''
  
−
== Indicators of marma sthana injury| ''marma abhighata lakshanas'' ==
+
The trauma or injury occurred to any part of body is comparatively less than that experienced on marma sthana, this is due to presence of Chetana (consciousness/life energy) concentrated at that site. <ref>Charaka Samhita ([https://niimh.nic.in/ebooks/ecaraka/?mod=read Siddhisthanam Adhyaya 9 Sutra 3])</ref>
  
 +
'''शस्त्रकर्मे ॥ Surgical procedures'''
  
−
There are certain symptoms which indicate injury to marma sthana. These symptoms occur when any of the marma is inflicted and are essential for a Vaidya to plan further treatment.
+
Marma sthana or the vital points are advised to be kept intact while performing surgeries meaning they should not be injured.<ref>Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 31)</ref>
  
−
Such as when sadhya pranahara marmas are injured, there occurs inability to perceive objects, alterations in intellect and various kind of pain in and around the marma sthana.
+
The knowledge of marma is an also important aspect in the study of ayurvedic anatomy or Shareera Rachana. Anatomy of marma sthana helps give a broader scope and understanding while giving treatment for injuries and especially in surgical procedures.
  
−
When kalantara pranahara marma is afflicted, dhatu kshaya (depletion of sapta dhatus) occurs along with severe pain which further leads to death of the individual.
+
The whole and excellent knowledge of marma is considered as good as half knowledge of entire Shalya Tantra (surgery) branch of Ayurveda. Vaidya who tries to treat the patient with marma sthana injury can only be successful upto the level . <ref>Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 33-34)</ref>
  
−
(sush.su.25.34-35)
+
'''साध्यासाध्यत्वम् तथा चिकित्सा॥ Disease prognosis and management'''
  
 +
The ease of getting cured from any disease, the level of damage or possibility of turning into chronic disease and the need of long term treatment for any disease depends upon which rogamarga (pathway of diseases) it is situated in. If any disease originates, manifests or even spreads into marma spots then the disease is said to become difficult to treat and might even turn fatal. Thus knowledge of marmas is essential to understand the disease prognosis and have idea of its probable response to the treatment.
  
−
There are few general indicators of marma abhighata or infliction to marmas which are bhrama(dizziness), pralapa(delirium), pramoha(insensibility), vicheshtana (irregular movements), murcha(giddiness), muscular laxity(looseness), severe pain, bleeding from the sthana etc. Also, Numbness of body, heaviness, cold flushes, excessive sweat, vomiting, breathlessness are few symptoms which indicate there has been a n injury to marma. (Asht.sang. Sharirs 7.47) http://vedotpatti.in/samhita/Vag/esangraha/?mod=read
+
'''कलरीपायट्टु॥ Kalaripayattu'''
  
−
== Importance| ''mahatva'' ==
+
There is a traditional and the oldest martial art form of India named Kalari or kalaripaywhich describes 365 marma points. The kalari warriors used this knowledge to harm their enemies. Also, they were nurtured using the same technique for healing wounds of the battle.
−
The trauma or injury occurred to any part of body is comparatively less than that experienced on marma sthana, this is due to presence of Chetana (consciousness/soul) at that sthana or site. (Cha sidd 9.3)
 
−
 
 
−
Marma sthana or the vital points are to be kept intact while performing surgeries meaning they should not be injured. (sushrut Samhita 6.31)
 
−
 
 
−
The whole and excellent knowledge of marma is as good as half knowledge of Shalya Tantra (surgery). Vaidya who tries to treat the patient with marma sthana injury can only be saved with a disability. Sush.shar. 6.34
 
−
 
 
−
There is a concept of disease pathways Ayurveda called as rogamarga which are three in number namely, shakha (periphery), marma-asthi-sandhi (vital spots and bones and joints) and koshta (internl organs). Here the middle pathway is Marma sthana. This makes marma important in disease manifestation, diagnosis and in treatment aspects.
 
−
 
 
−
The knowledge of marma is an important aspect in the study of ayurvedic anatomy or Shareera Rachana. Anatomy of marma sthana helps give a broader scope and understanding while treatment of injuries and especially surgical procedures.
 
  
 
== Marma and Acupressure   ==
 
== Marma and Acupressure   ==
−
Acupressure is an ancient and traditional Asian healing therapy technique developed 5000 appx years ago. In this therapy specific points are applied gentle pressure to release the tension in muscles which increases circulation and relieves pain. This paves way for appropriate flow of energy in the bodily channels.
+
Acupressure is an ancient and traditional Chinese healing therapy technique developed 5000 appx years ago. In this therapy specific points are applied upon gentle pressure to release the tension in muscles which increases circulation and relieves pain. This paves way for appropriate flow of energy in the bodily channels. Acupressure is based on meridians (routes of psychic energy), 12 in number which are assessed differently, and the cumulative result was developed as acupressure and other Oriental medical practices like Shiatsu, Moxibustion, tsubo etc.<ref name=":2">https://mrityunjaymission.org/marma-and-acupressure/</ref><ref name=":3">https://www.boloji.com/articles/49656/marma-and-acupressure</ref>
−
 
 
−
Acupressure is based on meridians (routes of psychic energy), 12 in number which are assessed differently, and the cumulative result was developed as acupressure and other Oriental medical practices like Shiatsu, Moxibustion, tsubo etc.
 
−
 
 
−
There is usage of certain kind of rhythm and pressure for stimulating the points, using not only the fingers, but also the hands, arms, legs and even feet. Acupressure Points have a high electrical conductivity at the surface of the skin, and thus conduct and channel healing energy most effectively. Therefore, the most potent healing energy work uses acupressure points.
 
−
 
 
−
Though these kinds of therapy look like Marma therapy, but marma therapy Is far more accurate, ancient and the sthanas (points) have much more importance than being just pressure points. Marma therapy is performed by skilled Vaidya and under standard protocols.
 
−
 
 
−
<nowiki>https://mrityunjaymission.org/marma-and-acupressure/</nowiki>
 
−
 
 
−
<nowiki>https://www.boloji.com/articles/49656/marma-and-acupressure</nowiki>
 
−
 
 
  
 +
There is usage of certain kind of rhythm and pressure for stimulating the points, using not only the fingers, but also the hands, arms, legs and even feet. Acupressure Points have a high electrical conductivity at the surface of the skin, and thus conduct and channel healing energy most effectively. Therefore, the most potent healing energy work uses acupressure points..<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":3" />
  
 +
Though Acupressure is much more popular, a similar therapy based on Marma points is developed in ancient India. It is called as Marma therapy. Marma therapy is performed by a skilled Vaidya and under standard protocols. In Marma therapy the points are not just energy points but a lot of peculiar details about those are known and based on that the marma points are stimulated in a particular way to get pain relief or other desired outcomes. It is gaining more popularity in west chiefly due to its efficacy, safety and also because of simplicity of procedures.
 
== Therapeutic Applications ==
 
== Therapeutic Applications ==
−
Cha.si.9.7
+
Marmas can be affected by any external injury or even as a result of spread of a certain chronic internal disease. Ayurveda acharyas have described different type of treatment methods to manage problems arising due to affliction of different marmas. Various panchakarma procedures like [[Abhyanga (अभ्यङ्गम् )|abhyanga]], [[Nasya (नस्यम्)|nasya]], [[Basti (बस्तिः )|basti]] etc. are known to have wonderful results in marma related disorders. The type of panchakarma is decided by a vaidya depending on the type of marma affected.  
−
 
 
−
Marmas are to be protected from various injuries because that aggravates vata dosha in the body and that aggravates pitta and kapha dosha as well. Thus, basti karma (enema therapy) the prime treatment for vata dosha imbalance is given as marma therapy.
 
−
 
 
−
When marma present in the murdha (head region) or shiras as a marma according to Acharya charaka is afflicted, abhyanga (oil massage), swedana (fomentation therapy), upanaha (poultice therapy), snehapana(internal fats like ghee,oil etc administration), nasya (nasal administration of oil) especially avapidana (nasya with churna) and dhumapana (nasya with medicated smoke) are administered as therapy.
 
  
−
When vasti or basti is afflicted which is one of the sadhya prana hara marma (present in trunk region) kumbhisweda which is precisely an under bed sudation, described in [Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 14/56-58] is given. Varti prayoga is done (urethral suppository), niruha and Anuvasana basti therapy (decoction enema and medicated oil enema) and Uttara basti (urethral route enema) therapy.
+
Marmas are to be protected from various injuries because marma injury affects prana which aggravates vata dosha in the body and that in turn can disturb the complete dosha balance in body. Therefore [[Basti (बस्तिः )|Basti karma (बस्तिकर्म)]] is believed to be one of the best treatment methods for marma related diseases.<ref>Charaka Samhita (Siddhisthanam Adhyaya 9 Sutra 7)</ref>
  
−
Abhyanga therapy in marma chikitsa aspect is one mildly similar therapy which resembles acupressure. Abhyanga (oil massage), udvartana (massage technique with medicated powders), massage with herbal paste, kizhi (massage done with palm, wrist, heel) or along with herbal pottali (poultice) are done skilfully with accurate pressure for required results and are few prime therapies for treatment in marma sthana injury.
+
[[Abhyanga (अभ्यङ्गम् )|Abhyanga]] therapy in marma chikitsa aspect is one quite similar therapy resembling acupressure. [[Abhyanga (अभ्यङ्गम् )|Abhyanga]] (अभ्यङ्गः oil massage), [[Ayurvedic method of body scrub (उद्वर्तनम्)|udvartana]] (उद्वर्तनम् massage technique with medicated powders), massage with herbal paste, kizhi (massage done with palm, wrist, heel) or along with herbal pottali (poultice) are done skillfully with accurate pressure for required results and are few prime therapies for treatment in marma sthana injury.
  
−
Agni karma is done in marmas which are predominant in Agni Mahabhuta for example sadhya pranahara marma. Precisely a method wherein a heated shalaka(long instrument) is used as a medium of agni, and applied on the skin surface level skilfully by a Vaidya in a standard procedure. For example, Agni karma in Katiktaruna marma for treatment of sciatica. Jaanu mama for knee pain, manibandha marma for wrist pain etc.
+
Agni karma is done in marmas which are predominant in Agni Mahabhuta for example sadhya pranahara marma. Precisely a method wherein a heated shalaka(शलाका long instrument) is used as a medium of agni, and applied on the skin surface level skillfully by a [[Vaidya (वैद्यः)]] in a standard procedure. For example, Agni karma in Katiktaruna (कटिकतरुण) marma for treatment of sciatica. Jaanu (जानु) marma for knee pain, manibandha (मणिबन्ध) marma for wrist pain etc.
  
−
Shirodhara which in short means pouring medicated oil from a certain height over sthapani marma (marma of the head region). Also, a broad spectrum panchakarma procedure which has various advantages in different diseases.  
+
Shirodhara which in short means, pouring medicated oil from a certain height over sthapani marma (marma of the head region). Also, a broad spectrum panchakarma procedure which has various advantages in different diseases.  
  
−
These techniques are to be done in a standard procedure by a skilled Vaidya only.
+
These techniques are to be done in a standard procedure by a skilled [[Vaidya (वैद्यः)|Vaidya]] only.
  
−
There are few research studies as well carried out which proves the efficacy of various marma therapy. Hrudbasti(oil retention and oil pouring) over the marma sthana, greevabasti(retention of oil over cervical region), kati basti(retention of oil over low back area) and many more like abhyanga (oil massage) as well, with certain skill which applies pressure over marma sthana.
+
== References ==
 +
<references />
 +
[[Category:Ayurveda]]

Latest revision as of 15:30, 7 October 2022

The word Marma (Samskrit - मर्म/मर्मन्)means any vulnerable point or core point of something. In reference to human body marma indicates a vulnerable point in the body which upon injury or damage by any external force can lead to sudden ill health or even death. The level of damage depends upon various factors like the type of marma, intensity of injury and the site of damage and its distance from the marma point. According to Ayurveda, Marmas are the points where the life energy is predominantly present. Hence damage to marmas can also lead to death. Therefore Ayurveda treatises discuss in depth about various types of marmas, there composition, effects of damage to all different types of marmas etc.

परिचयः॥ Introduction

Marma or the vital points is one of the important and exclusive topic discussed in Ayurveda. The references for the fundamentals of knowledge about Marma can be traced back to Rigveda (ऋग्वेदः), Upanishads (उपनिषदः) and Puranas (पुराणाः). The knowledge of marma was being widely used during a war to target enemies, for self-defence, for surgical procedures and also as a treatment modality ever since the Vedic period.  The importance of marma from diagnostic and therapeutic perspective is huge. When certain type of marma is affected, specific signs and symptoms arise and making use of this feature a therapy is developed where controlled pressure on these points is created to activate the energy concentrated at these points. This can relieve the probable blocks in the energy pathways linked with marmas in body and help get rid of certain symptoms like pains, aches and disabilities. This is called as marma therapy and it is practiced in may parts of Bharata and outside Bharata as well. It is a modality of treatment which does not require any herb or drug and hence it is widely popular. Some people compare it with that of acupressure therapy from Traditional Chinese

medicine but both these are significantly different. To practice marma therapy, in depth knowledge of marmas is essential. 'Marmaparipalanam' (मर्मपरिपालनम्) i.e. protection of marmas is equated to the selfcare or self protection in Ayurveda.

इतिहासः॥ History

The knowledge of marmas had been acquired by not just the worriers of ancient time in Bharata but also devatas since time immemorial. The original description of marma is found in the rigveda where Indra (इन्द्रः) is said to have used an ayudh (आयुधम् weapon) named Vajra fight demon Vratra (वृत्रः). The asura was killed by Indra's vajra when it was targeted on the marmasthana of vratra located in between his shoulders. [1] Rigveda mentions of varma or shield or body armor used for protection of marma points.[2] Few Upanishads like Shandilya upanishad, Garbha Upanishad, Kshurik Upanishad provide information about the concept and anatomical aspects of marma points. Agni purana mentions 10 locations of marma where the Prana reside.[3] Fire (agni) was used as the greatest weapon to injure the marmasthanas in wars. The great Indian epics mahabharata and bhagavata gita describe that elephants, horses and soldiers wore varma (वर्म) to protect marma (मर्म) points. Arjuna and Karna were only vulnerable to be killed through marma exposure. There are also references about death of Shravan kumara (श्रवणकुमारः), Ravana (रावणः), Shreekrishna (श्रीकृष्णः) happening due to injury to vital marma points.

The story of Shravana kumara, Ravana and Shrikrishna

Shravana kumara took hi parents to the pilgrimage on their wish. While on journey once the parents were thirsty and wanted water. So Shravana took rest and went near the river to get some water for them. King Dashratha (दशरथः), father of lord Rama was on hunting that time and was chasing an animal. That time he thought that the animal is near river and hence aimed at it but unfortunately it was shravana kumar. The arrow hit his forehead at a point known as Sthapani marma (स्थपनी मर्म). The peculiarity of this marma point is that, if this marma is hit by a weapon then it should not be removed or else the person may die while if it is kept at that time the person survives (विशल्यघ्न मर्म Vishlyaghna marma). On realizing that the arrow has inadvertently hit Shravan kumara, in guilt king Dasharatha removed the arrow from the point and Shravana kumara died. Thus knowledge of marmas was considered highly essential.

Similarly there are references in epics that Ravana died only when the arrow targeted by lord Rama hit Ravana's Nabhi (नाभी)and not by any other method. Nabhi is naval which is considered to be one of the Sadyapranahara marma (सद्यप्राणहर मर्म) . It is known in marma science that when such type of marma is hit it immediately causes death.

The kshipra marma (क्षिप्र मर्म) is known as Kalantara pranahara (कालन्तरप्राणहर मर्म) type of marma. It means that an injury to this type of marma leads to death within few days of hit. The legend is mentioned that when lord shree krishna was resting in a jungle reclining on a tree bark, a hunter saw lord krishna's feet and it appeared like a rabbit to him from distance. Considering it a prey his arrow hit the point of lord krishna's feet and it was the ksipra marma. Owing to this marma injury, in few days lord krishna left to heavenly abode.[1] [4]

Ramayana and Mahabharata

In Valmiki Ramayana there are few verses during war wherein there is mention of marma points being used as targets for injury. In Mahabharata there are multiple references where one can find the use of protective shields used by worriers and animals for protection of marma points during war.[5]

निरुक्ती॥ Nirukti

मर्म्म, [न्] क्ली, (मृ + “सर्व्वधातुभ्यो मनिन् ।”

उणा ० ४ । १४४ । इति मनिन् ।) स्वरूपम् ।
तत्त्वम् । जीवस्थानम् । Shabdakalpadruma Pg 641 [6]
The word marma is derived from the root 'Mru' (मृ) which means to die. Thus the vital points of body which can lead to death on damage are called as marmas.

परिभाषा॥ Definition

The term marma is defined by Acharya Sushruta in Sushruta samhita in following way,

  • On the basis of potential to cause death- The points in body which when injured can lead to death are called as Marmas. The commentator Arundatta on acharya Vagbhata’s Ashtnaga Hrudayam says that, even if injury to marma points does not cause death, it causes severe pain giving a person the experience of death.

मारयन्तीति मर्माण्युच्यन्ते । [7]

Even though the definition states that injury to a marma leads to death, there are certain types of marma like vaiklyakara marma (वैकल्यकर मर्म) and rujakar marma (रुजाकर मर्म ) Discussed in next part of the article) that do not lead to death but cause some morbidity or pain on injury. With right treatment by a skilled Vaidya these issues can be resolved.

  • On the basis of composition and nature- A confluence of mamsa (मांस muscles), sira (सिरा blood vessels), snayu (स्नायु ligaments), asthi- sandhi (अस्थि-संधि bones-joints) is known as marma sthana. These marma sthana is where prana(?) resides, thus any kind of injury or infliction will lead to death.

मर्माणि मांससिरास्नाय्वस्थिसन्धिसन्निपाताः; तेषु स्वभावत एव विशेषेण प्राणास्तिष्ठन्ति; तस्मान्मर्मस्वभिहतास्तांस्तान् भावानापद्यन्ते || (Sush. Samh .6.15)[8]

प्राणायतनानि॥ Marmas as vital points or energy points

According to acharya Charaka, there are 10 seats of prana (प्राणः life energy) in body viz. murdha (मूर्धा head), kantha (कंठ throat), hrdaya (हृदयम् heart), nabhi (नाभिः umbilicus), guda (गुदम् anus), basti (बस्तिः urinary bladder), ojas (ओजः), shukra (शुक्रम् semen), shonita (शोणितम्) or rakta (रक्तम् blood), mamsa (मांसः muscles) and among them the first six are the marma points.

दश प्राणायतनानि; तद्यथा- मूर्धा, कण्ठः, हृदयं, नाभिः, गुदं, बस्तिः, ओजः, शुक्रं, शोणितं, मांसमिति| तेषु षट् पूर्वाणि मर्मसङ्ख्यातानि||९|| [10]

प्रविभागाः॥ Classification

There are 107 marmas described in Ayurveda. Acharya Sushruta has categorized 107 marma sthana systemically in three ways, Every marma has its own predominant mahabhuta. Understanding the composition of marma from mahabhuta perspective is considered highly important in order to give treatment on marma injury or to practice marma therapy. Acharya Charaka gives importance to only three of the 107 marmas namely, Murdha (मूर्धा head), hridaya (हृदयम् heart), Basti (बस्तिः urinary bladder). The marmas are categorized into various types based on various criteria as below,

धातुभेदेन॥ Based on Composition of the marma

Marmas are basically certain spots in the body which can have dominance of one or the other body elements like mamsa (मांसः muscule) or sira (सिरा vessel) or asthi (अस्थिः bone) etc. Based on the dominance of one or the other body element, marmas are categorized in 5 types as follows.[11] A type of marma and total number of marmas of that type are given below.

  1. मांस मर्माणि ॥ Mamsa Marma (Muscle predominant) - 11
  2. सिरा मर्माणि॥ Sira Marma (Vascular predominant) - 41
  3. स्नायु मर्माणि॥ Snayu Marma (Ligament predominant) - 27
  4. अस्थि मर्माणि॥ Asthi Marma (Bone area predominant) - 08
  5. सन्धि मर्माणि॥ Sandhi Marma (Joint area predominant) – 20

स्थानभेदेन॥ Based on Location of Marma

All 107 marmas are located at different sites all over the body. Based on the location of the marma over body parts, the marmas are categorized into 3 different types as below, [11]

  1. Shakha gata (शाखा गत) - The word Shakha suggest upper and lower limbs viz both hands and legs. Thus marmas present in Both upper and lower limbs are known as Shakhagata marmas. - 44
  2. Madhya shareera (मध्य शरीर) – Marmas present in thorax and abdomen (trunk region) - 26
  3. Urdhva jatrugata (उर्ध्व जत्रुगत) – Jatru (जत्रुः) is a part of body at the base of neck. Hence marmas present in Head and neck region are known as Urdhwa jatrugata marmas – 37

अभिघातस्य परिणामभेदेन॥ Based on effect of injury on marma

The marmas are known as vital points or even mortal spots. Injury to marmas causes various different effects and even death. The effect of marma injury will depend upon what type of marma is damaged. Thus based on the effect on injury, the marmas are categorized into 5 types as follows,

  1. Sadhya pranahara (सद्यप्राणहर) marma – leads to immediate death if injury to these marma sthana happens. Where “sadhya” meaning instant, “prana” meaning life force or energy, and “hara” meaning lost or taken away the name itself suggest immediate death causing marmas. – 19 in number
  2. Kalantara pranahara (कालान्तरप्राणहर) marma – leads to delayed death on getting injured. Here kalantara” means delay or after some time.  – 33 in number
  3. Vishalyaghna (विशल्यघ्न) marma- If these type of marmas are injured with a weapon they can cause death if the weapon or part of weapon hitting the marma is removed. If that part is kept unmoved or as it is person can survive. Here, 'Shalya' means foreign body which is a part of weapon used for injury – 03 in number
  4. Vaikalyakara (वैकल्यकर)Marma – leads to permanent deformity or morbidity on injury. Where 'Vaikalya' means disability - 44 in number
  5. Rujakara (रुजाकर) marma – leads to severe pain when injured. here “ruja” means pain. –  08 in number
List of marmas of different types based on the effect on their injury
Sadhya pranahara marma Kalantara pranahara marma Vaikalyakar marma Vishalyaghna marma Rujakara marma
Shrungatak(4) (शृङ्गाटक) Vaksha (8) (वक्ष) Lohitaksha(4) (लोहिताक्ष) (उत्क्षेपः) Gulfa(2) (गुल्फः)
adhipati (अधिपतिः) Seemant (5) (सीमन्त) Aani(4) (आणि) sthapani (स्थपनी) Manibandha(2) (मणिबंधः)
Shankha(2) (शंखौ) Talahriday(4) (तलहृदयम्) Urvi(4) (उर्वी) Kurchashira(4) (कूर्चशिरः)
Matukayen (8) (मातृकाः) Kshipra(4) (क्षिप्रम्) Kurcha(4) (कुर्चा)
Guda (गुदम्) Indrabasti(4) (इन्द्रबस्तिः) Jaanu(2) (जानु)
Hruday (हृदयम्) Katiktarun(2) (कटिकतरुणम्) Vitapa(2) (विटप)
basti (बस्तिः) Parshavasandi(2) (पार्श्वसन्धिः) Kurpara(2) (कूर्पर)
naabhi (नाभिः) Nitamb(2) (नितम्ब) Kukundara(2) (कुकुन्दर)
Bhrihati(2) (बृहति) Kakshadhara(2) (कक्षधर)
Vidhura(2) (विधुर)
Krukatika(2) (कृकाटिका)
Amsa(2) (अंसः)
Phalaka(2) (फलकः)
Apanga(2) (अपाङ्गः)
Neela(2) (नीला)
Manya(2) (मन्या)
Phana(2) (फणा)
Avarta(2) (आवर्त)

Marmas in hand

Various marmas located in upper limbs or hands (from shoulders to fingertips) are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.

Name Location Pramana Composition Effect on injury Mahabhuta predominance
kShipra (क्षिप्र) In between thumb and index finger ½ angula Snayu kalantara pranahara *Soma,**agni
Talahriday (तलहृदयम्) Mid palm ½ angula Mamsa kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
Kurcha (कूर्चा) Above on both sides of kshipra 4 angula Snayu vaikalyakara Soma
Kurcha sshira (कूर्चशिर) Below on one side of wrist joint ½ angula Snayu vaikalyakara Soma
Manibandha (मणिबंध) Wrist joint 2 angula Sandhi vaikalyakara Soma
indrabasti (इन्द्रबस्तिः) Mid of forearm 2 angula Mamsa kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
kurpara (कूर्पर) Elbow joint 3 angula Sandhi vaikalyakara Soma
AAni (आणि) 3 angula above elbow joint both sides. 3 angula Snayu vaikalyakara Soma
Bahvi (बाहवी) Mid arm ½ angula Sira vaikalyakara soma
Lohitaksha (लोहिताक्ष) Above bahvi marma, adjacent to auxillary fold. ½ angula Sira vaikalyakara Soma
kakshadhara (कक्षाधर) In between chest and arm pit ½ angula Snayu vaikalyakara soma
*Soma (सोम)=Jala mahabhuta or water element, ** (अग्निः)=Tejas mahabhuta or fire element

Marmas in legs

Various marmas located in lower limbs or legs (from pelvis to feet) are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.

Name Location Pramana Composition Effect on Injury Mahabhuta
kShipra (क्षिप्र) Between great toe and second toe ½ angula Snayu kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
Talahriday (तलहृदयम्) Mid of the foot sole ½ angula Mamsa kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
Kurcha (कूर्च) Above both sides of kshipra 4 angula Snayu vaikalyakara Soma
Kurcha shira (कूर्चशिर) Both sides of ankle joint 1 angula Snayu vaikalyakara Soma
Gulfa (गुल्फ) Ankle joint 4 angula Sandhi rujakara Agni,vaayu
Indrabasti (इन्द्रबस्तिः) Mid of thigh in the line of heel ½ angula Mamsa kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
Jaanu (जानु) Knee joint 3 angula Sandhi vaikalyakara soma
Aani (आणि) 3 fingers above knee joint both sides ½ angula Snayu vaikalyakara soma
Urvi (उर्वी) Mid of thigh 1 angula Sira vaikalya kara soma
Lohitaksha (लोहिताक्ष) Root of thigh above urvi marma, below hip joint ½ angula Sira vaikalyakara soma
vitapa (विटप) In between groin and testes 1 angula Snayu vaikalyakara somas

Marmas of head and neck

Multiple marmas are located in head and neck region. These are known as Urdhwa-jatrugata marmas (उर्ध्वजत्रुगत मर्माणि). The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.

Name Location Pramana Composition Effect on Injury Mahabhuta predominance
Nilamanya  (4) (नीलामन्ये) High up in neck either side of trachea 4 angula Sira and vaikalyakara Vaikalyakara soma
Matrukay(8) (मातृका) Anterior external, post external

jugular veins and common facial

veins

4 angula Sira and sadhya pranahara Sadya pranahara Agni
Krukatika(2) (कृकाटिका) Junction of head and neck ½ angula Sandhi Vaikalyakara soma
Vidhura(2) (विधुरः) Below and behind the ear ½ angula Snayu,sira Vaikalyakara somas
Phana(2) (फणा) Both nasal passage near the roof of nose ½ angula Sira Vaikalyakara soma
Apanga(2) (अपाङ्ग) Lateral end of eyebrows ½ angula Sira Vaikalyakara soma
Avarta(2) (आवर्त) Above and below eyebrows ½ angula Sandhi Vaikalyakara soma
Utskhepa(2) (उत्क्षेप) Above temple ½ angula Snayu Vishalyaghna vayu
Shankha(2) (शंखौ) In between ear and forehead ½ angula Sandhi Sadya Pranahara agni
Sthapani (स्थपनी) In between eyebrows ½ angula Sira Vishalyaghna vayu
Seemanta (5) (सीमन्त) 5 joints in skull vault 4 angula Sandhi Kalantara pranahara
Shrungatak(4) (शृङ्गाटक) Venous junction of nose, ear, eyes, tongue 4 angula Sira Sadya pranahara agni
adhipati (अधिपतिः) Inside cranium ½ angula Sandhi Sadya pranahara agni

Marmas of the abdomen region

Marmas located in abdomen or between chest and hips/lower limbs are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.

Name Location Pramana Composition Effect on Injury Mahabhuta predominance
Guda (गुदम्) Anal region 4 angula Mamsa Sadya pranahara agni
Basti/vasti (बस्तिः) Bladder 4 angula Snayu Sadya pranahara Agni
Naabhi (नाभिः) umbilicus 4 angula Sira Sadya pranahara Agni

Marmas of the thorax region

Thorax means chest region. The marmas locate din this region are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.

Name Location Pramana Composition Effect on Injury Mahabhuta predominance
hridaya (हृदयम्) heart 4 angula Sira Sadya pranahara Agni
Stanamula(2) (स्तनमूल) Bilaterally two fingers below the

Stana (breast)

2 angula Sira kalantara pranahara Soma, agni
Stanarohita (2) (स्तनरोहित) Two fingers above the

Nipples of both the Stana Granthi

½ angula Sira kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
Apasthamba (2) (अपस्तंभ) Both sides of chest ½ angula Sira kalantara pranahara Soma, agni
Apalapa (2) (अपलाप) Both axillary region ½ angula Sira kalantara pranahara Soma,agni

Marmas of back region

Various marmas located on back and lower back regiuon are listed below. The table provides the exact location of the marma, its area, its composition, effect on its injury and the predominance of mahabhuta in that marma.

Name Location Pramana Composition Effect on Injury Mahabhuta predominance
Katiktaran(2) (कटिकतरुण) Both side of vertebral column to each hip bone ½ angula Asthi kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
Kukundara(2) (कुकुंदर) Lateral side of each femur ½ angula Sandhi Vaikalyakara soma
Nitamba(2) (नितंब) Above hip bone each side ½ angula Asthi kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
Parshavasandhi(2) (पार्श्वसन्धिः) Gluteal region joining lower part of two flanks ½ angula Sira kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
Brihati (2) (बृहति) Base of each breast ½ angula Sira kalantara pranahara Soma,agni
Amsaphalaka(2) (अंसफलक) Near scapular region each side of vertebral column ½ angula Asthi Vaikalyakara soma
Amsa(2) (अंस) In between scapular region and shoulder ½ angula Snayu Vaikalyakara soma

मर्मप्रमाणम् ॥ Measurement of marmas

Ayurveda acharyas have clearly stated the measurement of marmas in terms of anguli pramana (system of measurement with the use of finger). Knowledge of this is important in order to decide the effect of injury if hit on that part and also to protect the points.

  • Urvi, kurchashira, vitapa, kakshadhara, parshva and stana moola each measure 1 angula.
  • Manibandha and gilfa marma are 2 angula each.
  • Kurpara and jaanu marma are 3 angula each.
  • Hriday, basti,kurcha, guda , naabhi, shira are 4 angula.
  • Shrungataka measures 5 angula.
  • Seemant and 12 marmas of head and neck region are mushti pramana.
  • Other remaining marmas measure ½ angula.

(Here Anguli pramana is “swa anguli pramana” meaning length equal to the transverse length of one’s own middle phalanx (middle segment of bone) of middle finger.)

मर्माभिघातजलक्षणानि॥ Indicators of marma sthana injury

There are certain symptoms which indicate injury to marma sthanas. These symptoms occur when any of the marma is inflicted. Such as when sadhya pranahara marmas are injured, there occurs inability to perceive objects, alterations in intellect and various kind of pain in and around the marma sthana. When kalantara pranahara marma is afflicted, dhatu kshaya (depletion of sapta dhatus) occurs along with severe pain which further leads to death of the individual.[12] Knowledge of these symptoms is essential for a Vaidya to plan further treatment.

There are few general indicators of marma abhighata or infliction to marmas which are as follows,

  • Bhrama (भ्रम dizziness)
  • Pralapa(प्रलाप delirium)
  • Pramoha (प्रमोहः insensibility)
  • Vicheshtana (विचेष्टन irregular movements)
  • murcha (मूर्च्छा giddiness)
  • muscular laxity ( शैथिल्य looseness)
  • Severe pain
  • bleeding from the sthana etc.
  • Also, Numbness of body, heaviness, cold flushes, excessive sweat, vomiting, breathlessness are few symptoms which indicate there has been an injury to marma.[13]

मर्ममहात्म्यम्॥ Importance

शूले ॥ Pain intensity

The trauma or injury occurred to any part of body is comparatively less than that experienced on marma sthana, this is due to presence of Chetana (consciousness/life energy) concentrated at that site. [14]

शस्त्रकर्मे ॥ Surgical procedures

Marma sthana or the vital points are advised to be kept intact while performing surgeries meaning they should not be injured.[15]

The knowledge of marma is an also important aspect in the study of ayurvedic anatomy or Shareera Rachana. Anatomy of marma sthana helps give a broader scope and understanding while giving treatment for injuries and especially in surgical procedures.

The whole and excellent knowledge of marma is considered as good as half knowledge of entire Shalya Tantra (surgery) branch of Ayurveda. Vaidya who tries to treat the patient with marma sthana injury can only be successful upto the level . [16]

साध्यासाध्यत्वम् तथा चिकित्सा॥ Disease prognosis and management

The ease of getting cured from any disease, the level of damage or possibility of turning into chronic disease and the need of long term treatment for any disease depends upon which rogamarga (pathway of diseases) it is situated in. If any disease originates, manifests or even spreads into marma spots then the disease is said to become difficult to treat and might even turn fatal. Thus knowledge of marmas is essential to understand the disease prognosis and have idea of its probable response to the treatment.

कलरीपायट्टु॥ Kalaripayattu

There is a traditional and the oldest martial art form of India named Kalari or kalaripaywhich describes 365 marma points. The kalari warriors used this knowledge to harm their enemies. Also, they were nurtured using the same technique for healing wounds of the battle.

Marma and Acupressure  

Acupressure is an ancient and traditional Chinese healing therapy technique developed 5000 appx years ago. In this therapy specific points are applied upon gentle pressure to release the tension in muscles which increases circulation and relieves pain. This paves way for appropriate flow of energy in the bodily channels. Acupressure is based on meridians (routes of psychic energy), 12 in number which are assessed differently, and the cumulative result was developed as acupressure and other Oriental medical practices like Shiatsu, Moxibustion, tsubo etc.[17][18]

There is usage of certain kind of rhythm and pressure for stimulating the points, using not only the fingers, but also the hands, arms, legs and even feet. Acupressure Points have a high electrical conductivity at the surface of the skin, and thus conduct and channel healing energy most effectively. Therefore, the most potent healing energy work uses acupressure points..[17][18]

Though Acupressure is much more popular, a similar therapy based on Marma points is developed in ancient India. It is called as Marma therapy. Marma therapy is performed by a skilled Vaidya and under standard protocols. In Marma therapy the points are not just energy points but a lot of peculiar details about those are known and based on that the marma points are stimulated in a particular way to get pain relief or other desired outcomes. It is gaining more popularity in west chiefly due to its efficacy, safety and also because of simplicity of procedures.

Therapeutic Applications

Marmas can be affected by any external injury or even as a result of spread of a certain chronic internal disease. Ayurveda acharyas have described different type of treatment methods to manage problems arising due to affliction of different marmas. Various panchakarma procedures like abhyanga, nasya, basti etc. are known to have wonderful results in marma related disorders. The type of panchakarma is decided by a vaidya depending on the type of marma affected.

Marmas are to be protected from various injuries because marma injury affects prana which aggravates vata dosha in the body and that in turn can disturb the complete dosha balance in body. Therefore Basti karma (बस्तिकर्म) is believed to be one of the best treatment methods for marma related diseases.[19]

Abhyanga therapy in marma chikitsa aspect is one quite similar therapy resembling acupressure. Abhyanga (अभ्यङ्गः oil massage), udvartana (उद्वर्तनम् massage technique with medicated powders), massage with herbal paste, kizhi (massage done with palm, wrist, heel) or along with herbal pottali (poultice) are done skillfully with accurate pressure for required results and are few prime therapies for treatment in marma sthana injury.

Agni karma is done in marmas which are predominant in Agni Mahabhuta for example sadhya pranahara marma. Precisely a method wherein a heated shalaka(शलाका long instrument) is used as a medium of agni, and applied on the skin surface level skillfully by a Vaidya (वैद्यः) in a standard procedure. For example, Agni karma in Katiktaruna (कटिकतरुण) marma for treatment of sciatica. Jaanu (जानु) marma for knee pain, manibandha (मणिबन्ध) marma for wrist pain etc.

Shirodhara which in short means, pouring medicated oil from a certain height over sthapani marma (marma of the head region). Also, a broad spectrum panchakarma procedure which has various advantages in different diseases.  

These techniques are to be done in a standard procedure by a skilled Vaidya only.

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Dr. Manjunath Gopal Sutar et al / Int. J. of Allied Med. Sci. and Clin. Research Vol-8(3) 2020 [615-618]
  2. ↑ Rigveda 6/75/18
  3. ↑ Agni Purana (370.45-46)
  4. ↑ https://rasayan97.wordpress.com/2020/08/22/22-8-20/
  5. ↑ Mahabharata (Bhishma Parva 114/56, 119/5, 119/47, 119/61, 119/65; Drona Parva 92/7, 92/22; Karna Parva 19/61; Shalya Parva 32/63, 36/64)
  6. ↑ Shabdakalpadruma Pg 641
  7. ↑ Nibandhasangraha commentary by Dalhana on Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 3)
  8. ↑ Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 15)
  9. ↑ Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 35-36)
  10. ↑ Charaka Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 7 Sutra 9)
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 3-7)
  12. ↑ Sushruta Samhita (Sutrasthanama Adhyaya 25 Sutra 34-35)
  13. ↑ Ashtanga Samgraha (Sharirasthana Adhyaya 7 Sutra 47)
  14. ↑ Charaka Samhita (Siddhisthanam Adhyaya 9 Sutra 3)
  15. ↑ Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 31)
  16. ↑ Sushruta Samhita (Sharirasthanam Adhyaya 6 Sutra 33-34)
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 https://mrityunjaymission.org/marma-and-acupressure/
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 https://www.boloji.com/articles/49656/marma-and-acupressure
  19. ↑ Charaka Samhita (Siddhisthanam Adhyaya 9 Sutra 7)
Retrieved from ‘https://dharmawiki.org/index.php?title=Marma_(मर्म)&oldid=134468’