Abstract

DECODING AMA DOSHA AND INBORN ERRORS OF METABOLISM: A COMPARATIVE DIAGNOSTIC INSIGHT FROM VEDANA ADHYAYA IN PEDIATRIC PRACTICE

Dr. Reshmi S. Nair*, Dr. Divyasri R. A. and Dr. Sudheer B. R.

Abstract

Background: Ama dosha, the undigested metabolic residue, is central to pediatric pathology in Kashyapa Samhita’s Vedana Adhyaya. Formed due to weakened Agni, it becomes heavy, sticky, foul-smelling, and binds with Doshas and Dhatus, resisting elimination. In children, it manifests as conditions like Alasaka, Vishoochika, and Kṣhira Alasaka, accompanied by pallor, anorexia, lethargy, unusual odours, and neurological signs. Objective: To offer a comprehensive conceptual analysis of Ama dosha in children, explore its early diagnostic signs, and compare this model with Inborn Errors of Metabolism (IEMs) -genetic disorders resulting in toxic substrate accumulation. Methods: A detailed review of Vedana Adhyaya, Ayurvedic commentaries, and contemporary medical literature on IEMs was conducted. Classical Ayurvedic concepts were examined alongside diagnostic manifestations in children and paralleled with IEM clinical features. Results: Ama dosha, when coupled with Doshas, mirrors the pathophysiological processes seen in IEMs, with shared clinical signatures: Lethargy, anorexia, metabolic distress, abnormal odours, pallor, and developmental or neurological abnormalities. Ayurvedic modalities like Agni Dipana, Ama Pachana, and Dosha Shamana are potential parallels to modern metabolic interventions. Conclusion: Integrating Ayurvedic diagnostic principles from Vedana Adhyaya with modern biochemical screening may improve early recognition and management of pediatric metabolic disorders, especially valuable in resource-limited settings. Clinical evaluation of scent, temperament, feeding behaviour, and excretion can guide early detection and targeted treatment strategies, augmenting contemporary pediatric care.

Keywords: Ama dosha, Kaumarabhritya, Vedana Adhyaya, Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Pediatric Diagnostics, Integrative Diagnostics.