Rakta

Rakta is a Sanskrit term whose primary meaning is blood and, by extension, the color red. In classical Indian medical literature, as well as in cultural and religious discourse, rakta appears as both a physical concept (blood) and a symbolic or color-related idea associated with vitality and life force.

In Ayurveda, rakta is one of the seven dhatus, or bodily tissues. It follows rasa (plasma) in the sequential process of tissue formation and serves to nourish organs, support complexion, and contribute to vitality. The rakta dhatu is carried through rakta vaha srotas (the channels of blood) and is influenced by the body’s doshas, particularly pitta. Balanced rakta supports healthy skin, energy, and metabolic function, while its imbalance—referred to in Ayurvedic texts as rakta dushti—may present as skin disorders, fever, bleeding tendencies, or anemia-like symptoms.

In modern medical usage, the term rakta corresponds to blood. Blood consists of components such as red and white blood cells, platelets, and plasma, and it performs essential functions including oxygen transport, nutrient distribution, immune defense, and hemostasis. The term appears in several Indian languages as their word for blood and remains a common term in medical and everyday language.

Culturally, the color red and the concept of blood hold significant symbolic weight in various Indian traditions, often associated with life, strength, and ritual symbolism. See also rakta-dosha and rakta dhatu in Ayurveda for related concepts.