Abstract

AMA AND TOXINS: AYURVEDIC DIAGNOSTICS IN THE LIGHT OF MODERN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

Dr. Narendra Subhash Hon1* and Dr. Rajendra Rohidasrao Lokhande

Abstract

The term Ama is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Am’ with the suffix ‘Nich’, meaning that which is unripe, uncooked, immature, or undigested. It refers to a substance that remains incompletely processed and requires further digestion and transformation. Āma is the result of impaired digestion, primarily caused by Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). It represents a state of metabolic dysfunction that leads to the accumulation of toxic substances in the body—substances that cannot be easily neutralized or eliminated. Ama vitiates the Doṣas and disturbs Dhatu Samya (tissue equilibrium), leading to the pathological interaction of Doṣa and Mala, which initiates the process of disease. This plays a key role in the pathogenesis of various disorders such as Amavata, Grahaṇi Doṣha, Kaṭigata Vata, and Tamak Shvasa. Hence, Ama marks the critical shift from a physiological to a pathological state, serving as a precursor to many inflammatory, infectious, and degenerative diseases.

Keywords: Ama, Toxins, Agnimandya.