Abstract

ETIOPATHOGENESIS OF AMA FORMATION AND ROLE OF SHAMANA THERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT: A REVIEW

Shrikant Sahu*, Dr. Aradhana Kande and Dr. Shikha Pendro

Abstract

The term Ama refers to raw, unripe, unprocessed or improperly digested condition of food substances probably due to the hypofunctioning of the Agni i.e. Mandagni. Mandagni is the root cause of all diseases and is a causative factor for the production of Ama. Any factor which disturbs the directly or indirectly is the cause for the production of Ama. The dietetic indiscretions and emotional stress may impair the effective functioning of the neurohormonal mechanism are the main causative factor for developing Ama inside the body. Vagbhatta classified Ama dosa chikitsa into three varieties based on its severity. Langhana, Langhana and Pachana and Dosavasechana (Shodhana therapy) in mild, moderate and severe conditions according to its severity respectively. Among them shamana therapy is most appropriate in mild, moderate and chronic sama conditions and is still best in prevention of Ama formation. Hence this is an attempt to explain the etiopathogenesis of Ama formation and role of Shamana therapy in Ama condion.

Keywords: Ama, Mandagni, Etiopathogenesis, Shamana therapy.