n Sanskrit, the word ‘Pandu’ means pale (swetapeet varna). So the disease in which, the whole body becomes pale (skin, nails, eyes) due to rakta alpata (deficiency of blood) is called Pandu roga.
The pathology of anemia finds its root in the imbalance of Agni (Fire element), which leads to the formation of Ama (toxin). This disruption is caused by Pitta dosha (biohumor associated with blood and Fire element) that is circulated around the body by aggravated Vata (biohumor associated with circulation and Air element).
Pitta dosha usually gets aggravated by eating foods that are too sour, salty, spicy or hot, eating uneasy food combinations (viruddh ahar), exercising or having sex during the process of digestion, suppression of natural urges, and negative emotions like fear, jealously or anger.
This circulating Pitta imbalances the Pitta in the heart (Sadhaka Pitta) and liver (Ranjaka Pitta) which slackens and weighs down the tissues, especially affecting the blood, muscles and Ojas (vital fluid) with its sharp and hot qualities. Vata and Kapha doshas can also cause anemia and therefore Pandu Rog is classified according to the dominant dosha.
Check out the foods and the home remedies that help one combat anemia.