Abstract

“A CRITICAL STUDY OF AMA IN BRIHATRAYEE WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO AMA-INDUCED ONCOGENESIS: A CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC FRAMEWORK FOR CANCER UNDERSTANDING”

Dr. Anil Kumawat*, Dr. Ramnihor Tapsi Jaiswal, Prof. Manohar Ram

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Abstract

Ama is a key pathological concept outlined in the Brihatrayee (Charaka, Sushruta, and Ashtanga Hridaya), signifying poorly digested or metabolized substances that become harmful elements within the body. Traditional Ayurvedic literature connects the development of several ailments to Agnimandya (poor digestion and metabolic function), resulting in the creation of Ama. In contemporary biomedical science, cancer is mainly linked to changes in cellular structure, oxidative damage, ongoing inflammation, and immune system imbalances—processes that conceptually echo the harmful nature of Ama. One of Ayurveda's six main treatments, langhana, utilizes fasting or lightening methods to reduce excess doshas, ama, or waste products, thereby restoring the body's balance. Using techniques like exercise and fasting, it works well, especially for conditions brought on by overeating, often without the use of medication. Langhana in Ayurveda is similar to autophagy because both processes encourage detoxification and rejuvenation by removing built-up toxins or impaired parts to restore balance.

Keywords: Ama, Agnimandya, Cancer, Langhan, Autophagy.