Abstract

UNDERSTANDING OF AGNI: ‘‘ITS ROLE AND RELEVANCE IN AYURVEDA PHYSIOLOGY’’

Dr. Veena Jangir*, Dr. Sarika Yadav

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Abstract

Agni plays a constant and indispensable role in the process of Paka, which includes digestion and transformation. The food we consume must undergo digestion, absorption, and assimilation to sustain life, and this essential function is governed by Agni. Classical Ayurvedic texts often equate Pitta with Agni, though this comparison has sparked some debate. Agni is considered countless in number due to its presence in every Paramanu (minute particle) of the body. However, various Ayurvedic scriptures differ in their enumeration of Agni. Based on its function and site of activity, Agni is categorized into 13 types: one Jatharagni, five Bhutagni, and seven Dhatvagni. Among them, Jatharagni holds primary importance, as it is responsible for digesting four types of food and converting them into Rasa (nutritive fluid) and Mala (waste). The five Bhutagnis act specifically on the elemental components of the ingested food, helping to nourish the corresponding Bhutas (elements) within the body. Meanwhile, the seven Dhatvagnis operate on the Dhatus (tissues), breaking them down into three parts. This transformative process results in two distinct outcomes: Prasad (the essence, used for nourishment) and Kitta (waste, which must be eliminated). If the latter is retained, it contaminates the body, emphasizing the importance of proper excretion.

Keywords: Agni, Ahara, Ama, Bhutagni, Dehagni, Jatharagni.