Abstract

CONCEPT OF AGNI AND AMA

Dr. Chetan Ram Meghwal*, Prof. Ashok Kumar Sharma, Dr. Ayushi Nigam

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Abstract

Agni is an important integral part of the body and its chikitsa is termed Kaychikitsa. It lives in every living being in the universe, which is why it is called Vaishwanar. Any derangement in Agni may lead to disturbance in all dependent factors, viz., colour, complexion, vigor, vitality, strength, oja, teja, and Prana. For normal metabolism in the body, a proper balance between anabolism and catabolism is required. Digestion, absorption and assimilation of food involve a number of complex processes. All the factors responsible for such processes may be collectively termed as Agni. Various enzymes, catalysts, and cofactors involved in the process may be included in it. Ama is considered a toxin produced due to the improper functioning of Agni. Therefore, ama can be considered as unripe or unmetabolized food material. Ama vitiates doshas and disturbs Dhatu-samya after combining with Dosha and mala. Ama initiates the pathogenesis of diseases. The present article summarises Ayurveda and modern perspectives related to Ama and its role in disease pathogenesis. Ama is one such pathological factor that causes many diseases like Grahani Roga, allergy and Amavata, etc.

Keywords: Agni, Jatharagni, Bhutagni, DhatwAgni, Tridosha, Ama.