Abstract

CONCEPT OF AGNI IN AYURVEDA - A REVIEW ARTICLE

Ashvin B. Bagde* and Asha T. Ramteke

ABSTRACT

The concept of Agni is very elaborately described in Ayurveda. The concept of Agni is one of the most important contributions of Ayurveda to healthcare system. It requires very deep study. It is not only a subject similar to modern concept of digestive juices and enzymes, responsible for converting food in to body elements, but also something totally different. Agni converts food in the form of biological energy, which is responsible for all the vital functions of our body. About the importance of Agni, Acharya Charaka has clearly mentioned that the life span, complexion, vitality, good health, enthusiasm, plumpness, glow, vital essence, luster, heat and the life- breaths are derived from the Agni. With this Acharya Charak also mentioned that after stoppage of the function of Agni, the person dies and when the Agni of an individual is Samagni, 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 of the body would be disturbed, resulting in ill health and disease. Hence Agni is said to be the Mool (base of life). The concept of Agni is very vast. So there is need of understanding the concept of Agni. This article an attempt has been made to describe the concepts of Agni in Ayurveda.

Keywords: Agni, Jatharagni, Mandagni, Samagni, Dhatvagni, Bhutagni.