Abstract

AYURVEDIC INSIGHTS INTO GASTROINTESTINAL HEALTH: THE ROLE OF AGNI IN MODULATING GUT MICROBIOME AND IMMUNE FUNCTION

Dr. Vaibhav Biradar*, Dr. Nishant Patel and Dr. Arpit Vankar

Abstract

In Ayurveda, Agni is recognized as the fundamental principle of digestion and metabolism, playing a central role in maintaining physical, mental, and immune health. Modern biomedical science has concurrently identified the gastrointestinal tract—particularly the gut microbiome—as a crucial modulator of immune function and overall systemic health. This review aims to synthesize the ancient Ayurvedic understanding of Agni with current scientific knowledge about gut physiology, focusing on its relationship with the gut microbiome, immune regulation, and disease pathogenesis. Agni, categorized into Jatharagni, Bhutagni, and Dhatvagni, is believed to be responsible for transforming food into Rasa (plasma) and subsequently into all bodily tissues. A balanced Agni supports proper digestion, absorption, assimilation, and elimination, while impaired Agni (Mandagni, Tikshnagni, Vishamagni) leads to the accumulation of Ama (toxins), considered the root cause of disease in Ayurveda. Recent research suggests that disrupted gut microbiota (dysbiosis) can impair mucosal immunity, increase intestinal permeability, and contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases, resonating with Ayurvedic notions of Ama accumulation and Agni imbalance. Moreover, diet and lifestyle modifications advocated in Ayurveda to balance Agni—such as the use of herbs like ginger, turmeric, and triphala—have been found to possess prebiotic, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties. Ayurvedic practices like fasting, proper food combinations, and seasonal eating also show potential in regulating gut flora and supporting immune function.

Keywords: .