Abstract

CONCEPT OF AGNI (DIGESTIVE FIRE) IN AYURVEDA: A REVIEW

*Dr. Ankita, Dr. Brijendra Kumar Godara, Dr. Arvind Kumar, Dr. O. P. Dadhich, Dr. Chhaju Ram Yadav

ABSTRACT

The Ayurvedic concept of Agni is one of the most contribution to healthcare system. Agni is the biological fire that governs the process of metabolism in the body. It powers the transformation of one substance into another. Agni encompasses all the changes in the body and mind from the dense to the subtler. Agni is found in the alimentary canal and digests food. The main function of Agni is the promotion of process of digestion. Therefore, the digestive abilities are related to the strength of Agni. Maximum number of diseases is directly or indirectly related to the improper functioning of Agni. It is responsible for neutralizing toxins, bacteria and viruses that hinders with the functioning of immune system. According to the functions and site of action Agni has been divided into 3 types i.e. one Jathragni, 5 Bhutagni and 7 Dhatvagni. Jathragni is the most important one, which digest four types of food and transforms it into Rasa & Mala. An attempt has been made to describe the concept of Agni in Ayurveda in this article.

Keywords: Agni, Jathragni, Dhatvagni, Bhutagni.