Abstract

AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF GRAHANI IN RELATION TO DIGESTIVE PHYSIOLOGY AND AGNI

Dr. Manisha Yadav

Abstract

Ayurveda emphasizes the preservation of health and the management of disease through the maintenance of internal physiological balance. Among its fundamental principles, Agni is regarded as the cornerstone of life, as it governs the processes of digestion, transformation, and assimilation of food. Classical texts state that disturbance of Agni is the root cause of many pathological conditions. The proper functioning of Jatharagni ensures the conversion of ingested food into bioavailable nutrients, thereby supporting the nourishment, growth, and maintenance of body tissues. Grahani is described as the principal seat of Agni and represents a vital functional unit of the gastrointestinal system. It retains ingested food until digestion is completed, facilitates the action of Pachaka Pitta, and enables the separation of Sara from Kitta. The functional efficiency of Grahani is closely dependent on the state of Agni; its impairment leads to defective digestion and manifests clinically as Grahani Roga. In the present era, such disorders are increasingly prevalent due to irregular dietary habits, sedentary lifestyle, and psychological stress. The present study aims to analyze the physiological (Sharira Kriyatmaka) aspects of Grahani through a critical review of classical Ayurvedic literature and to correlate these concepts with modern digestive physiology. This integrative approach provides a conceptual framework for improving diagnostic understanding and developing effective management strategies for Grahani-related disorders, with emphasis on restoration of Agni and maintenance of gastrointestinal homeostasis.

Keywords: Grahani, Agni, Jatharagni, Pachaka Pitta, Digestive Physiology, Small Intestine, Aharapachana, Sara-Kitta Vibhajana, Grahani Roga.