An Observational Study Of Rakta Dhatu Sārata And Hemoglobin Levels In College-Going Students

Abstract

Background: Rakta Dhatu Sārata, an Ayurvedic phenotype denoting qualitative excellence of the blood tissue, is hypothesized to align with favorable hematologic profiles in young adults. Evidence in college populations is limited by heterogeneous measurement and study design. This study evaluated the association between Rakta Dhatu Sārata and venous hemoglobin among college-going students.

Methods: In a cross-sectional study at an urban Indian college, 186 students aged 18–25 years underwent standardized assessment of Rakta Dhatu Sārata using a validated questionnaire and were categorized as Pravara, Madhyama, or Avara. Venous hemoglobin was measured on an automated analyzer under daily quality control. Primary comparisons used one-way ANOVA with post hoc contrasts. Multivariable linear regression modeled hemoglobin as a function of Sārata category adjusting for sex, age, body mass index, menstrual characteristics, diet, tea or coffee timing with meals, physical activity, recent deworming, and socioeconomic proxies. Sensitivity analyses used a continuous weighted Sārata score and logistic regression for anemia status.

Results: Mean hemoglobin differed across categories (Pravara 13.9 ± 1.0 g/dL, Madhyama 13.2 ± 1.1 g/dL, Avara 12.5 ± 1.2 g/dL; F=18.6, p<0.001; η²=0.17). In adjusted models, Pravara showed higher hemoglobin than Avara by 1.20 g/dL (95% CI 0.82 to 1.57, p<0.001) and Madhyama by 0.58 g/dL (95% CI 0.30 to 0.86, p<0.001); model R²=0.40. Findings were robust with the weighted Sārata score and when anemia status was the outcome.

Conclusions: Rakta Dhatu Sārata is positively and independently associated with hemoglobin in college-going students. Integrating a brief Sārata screen with venous hemoglobin testing is feasible for campus health programs and may support targeted counseling and referral for anemia risk.