A Review of Ayurvedic Concepts of Agni and Their Correlation with Digestive and Metabolic Disorders

Abstract

Ayurveda emphasizes the pivotal role of Agni (digestive fire) in maintaining health and preventing disease. Agni governs digestion, absorption, and metabolism, serving as the cornerstone of physiological processes. Ayurvedic classics describe that disturbances in Agni underlie various disorders, including digestive and systemic diseases. This review elucidates the concept of Agni, its classifications, and imbalances while correlating these principles with contemporary knowledge of digestive and metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, obesity, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). By integrating Ayurvedic principles with current scientific evidence, the paper highlights Agni-based management strategies, including dietary, lifestyle, and detoxification therapies, for improving digestive and metabolic health.