Abstract

CONCEPT OF AGNI IN CARAKA SAMHITA - A VISION

Dr. Awadhesh Kumar Baranwal*

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of life sciences and Medicine. Ayurveda has described an important factor of digestion and metabolism in our body as Agni. Agni is important integral part of body. The word Agni in general language gives the meaning of fire. In living organisms it maintains the structural and functional integrity by performing the vital activities like biophysical and biochemical processes. It lives in every living being of the universe. Any derangement of agni leads the many diseases in our body. About the importance of Agni, Acharya Caraka has mentioned that after stoppage of the function of Agni, the individual dies, and when the Agni of an individual is sama, then that person would be absolutely healthy and would lead a long, happy, healthy life. But, if the Agni of a person is vitiated, the whole metabolism in his body would be disturbed, resulting in ill health and disease. Hence, Agni is said to be the base of life.

Keywords: Jatharagni, Bhutagni, Dhatwagni.