E-ISSN:2456-3110

Review Article

Grahani Roga

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2024 Volume 9 Number 7 JULY
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

A review article of Grahani Roga and its Ayurvedic management

Maurya N1*, Ram M2, Jaiswal RNT3, Saxena A4
DOI:10.21760/jaims.9.7.19

1* Neha Maurya, Post Graduate Scholar, Dept of Samhita Evum Siddhanta, Rajkiya Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.

2 Manohar Ram, Reader and HOD, Dept of Samhita Evum Siddhanta, Rajkiya Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.

3 Ram Nihor Tapsi Jaiswal, Reader, Dept of Samhita Evum Siddhanta, Rajkiya Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.

4 Anjana Saxena, Reader, Dept of Stri Roga and Prasuti Tantra, Rajkiya Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Grahani Roga is the prime disease of gastro-intestinal tract and seen often in day-today practice. In our classics Grahani is described as an Agni Adhishthana. Any disturbance in the status of Agni leads to Grahani Roga. The rapid increase in the prevalence of Grahani is a matter of great concern now days. IBS, a condition influenced by sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, stress, and environmental changes, disrupts the balance between normal Vata Dosha and Agni. Agni weakness causes food to be vitiated and released in indigested form, leading to fermentation and causing poisoning in the body. This paper discusses the pathogenesis of Grahani Roga, a condition linked to impaired digestive function, and presents various treatment modalities, including herbs, Yoga, and lifestyle modifications.

Keywords: Agni, Grahani, Irritable bowel syndrome, Yoga

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Neha Maurya, Post Graduate Scholar, Dept of Samhita Evum Siddhanta, Rajkiya Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Email: 		Maurya N, Ram M, Jaiswal RNT, Saxena A, A review article of Grahani Roga and its Ayurvedic management. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2024;9(7):138-142.
Available From
https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/3601

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2024-05-07 2024-05-17 2024-05-26 2024-06-01 2024-06-15
Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note
None Nil Yes 13.38

© 2024by Maurya N, Ram M, Jaiswal RNT, Saxena Aand Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

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Neha M et al. A review article of Grahani Roga and its Ayurvedic management

Introduction

Grahani Dosha is a common problem especially affects people living with unhygienic conditions and suffered with nutritional deficiency. The faulty lifestyle, consumption of junk food, stress, inadequate sleep and avoidance of Sadvritta are the major reasons of Grahani Dosha. Pathologically disease initiates due to the improper digestion of food which further vitiate Agni and Doshas leading to formation of ama which further resulted symptoms of constipation and diarrhea.[1-4] Drugs having Kashaya Rasa, Ushna Veerya, Madhura Vipaka & Ruksha Guna help to pacifies Vata & Pitta Dosha therefore potentiates Agni which improves process of digestion. Drugs which gives bulk to the stool, hydrate body and possess nutritional benefits also relieve symptoms of Grahani Dosha. Ayurveda text emphasized on four. This article described general consideration of Grahani Dosha and its management by Ayurveda and conduction of disciplinary life style.[2-7]

Etiological Factors

  • Abhojanat, Ajeernabhojanat, Attibhojanaat, Visamasanat, Asatmya Guru, Ruksa and Sandusta Bhojanat
  • Vyadhikarshanat and Vegavidharana
  • Stress, anxiety and grief
  • In disciplinary life style and bad food habits
  • Unhygienic environmental condition
  • Nutritional insufficiency
  • Contagious predominance
  • Improper functioning of digestive fire
  • Diseased condition which weakened Agni
  • Virudha-Ahara
  • Avoidance of concept of Desha and Kala during consumption of food stuffs
  • Excessive use of antibiotics.

Symptoms

According to Acharaya the predominant symptoms of disease are; Aalasya, Trishna, Aanvidaah, Chir Pakka, Balakshaya and Gaurvam, etc.

Other symptoms of diseases are Aruchi, Kasa, Karnakshveda and Antrakunjana.

Intestinal spasms, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain also observed in acute condition.[6-8]

Functions of Grahani

Grahani is seat of Agni and it is so called since it holds/retains the food (for proper digestion and assimilation). Grahani, supported by Agni, holds undigested food and pushes forward digested food. Agni weakens due to Vidagdha Ahara, Murchita Dosha, afflicted by improperly digested food. (Dosha associated with Ama) it vitiates the Grahani and releases food in the form of Ama i.e., undigested form extremely enraged Vatadi Dosha separately or together corrupts the Grahani. Then the Grahani leaves the food that has been eaten or left undisturbed again and again. Grahani disease is a chronic diarrhea characterized by pain, bad odour, loose motions, or thin (bile) discharge.[9]

Nidana of Grahani Dosha:

Agni vitiation can be caused by excessive starvation, humouring in food intake, and upset stomach, Overeating, irregular feeding habits, distasteful food, excessively nutritionally high-quality food, cold or dry foods, thinness, contamination, and improper procedures are common health issues, like Vamana, Virechana and Sneha, thinness of body due to disease, sudden migration to unsuitable place and of time and of season, suppression of natural urges are causes for vitiation of Agni. Thus, vitiated Agni is unable to digest even the light food. This vitiated digestive agent forms an intermediate substance called Ama, which turns sour (Shukta) during fermentation and finally turns in poisonous substance (Amavisha).[10]

Annavisha, when associated with Pitta, causes Daha, morbid thirst, oral diseases, Amlapitta, acid peptic disorders, and other pitta-related conditions, while when associated with kapha, it leads to Yakshma, Peenas, and Prameha (20 types of diabetes) and various other Kaphaja disorders, whereas several Vatika disease are caused by association of Vata with the Annavisha. The Annavisha when enters renal system, urine related disorders occur; similarly, Kukshigata Roga (ailments related to abdomen) have their origin when Sakrita (faeces) is involved. Rasadi Pradoshaja Vikara (tissue related ailments) occur when Rasadi Srotas are involved.[11]


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Neha M et al. A review article of Grahani Roga and its Ayurvedic management

Importance of Agni in Grahani Dosha

  • The Vishamagni (improper Agni) causes irregularity in digestion and therefore defective formation of Dhatu takes places.
  • Tikshanagni (excessive Agni) when associated with little quantity of fuel (in the form of food) causes depletion of Dhatu (tissue elements).
  • Samagni, If Agni is Samae., in balanced condition and correct diet regimen (as explained in Ca.Su.5 and Ca.Vi.1/21) are also followed then there is proper digestion of food which helps in maintaining proper balance within the Dhatu.
  • Durbala (weak) Agni brings about partial digestion of food. These partially digested bio substances then enter in circulation, which may move either in upward or downward direction.[12]

Modern aspect of Grahani Roga (IBS)

IBS, also known as spastic colitic, is an intestinal condition causing stomach pain, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, and gas, with individual differences making diagnosis difficult. Irritated bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal condition characterized by abdominal pain, irregular movements, and disorganized defecation, often without visible anatomical abnormalities.[8]

IBS is a disease linked to various extra-intestinal disorders, sexual dysfunctions, urinary complaints, and psychiatric disorders. Ayurveda explains it as a result of altered Agni & Dosa Dusti, affecting Agni's functional dependence, Dhatus, and worried Srotas.

Rasavahasrotas, as well as Ahara Viharas, which result in Vatakopa. Intestinal sensitivity, motility, secretion, and permeability are all significantly affected by psychological stress, and the underlying process is closely related to mucosal immune activation, changes in the central nervous system, peripheral neurons, and gastrointestinal microbiota.

September 2022 after some time, any Sharirika Roga that a person has may transform into Manasik Roga, and the same Samprapti (pathogenesis) applies to the transformation of Manasik Roga into Sharirika Roga. This demonstrates that Ayurveda has made the most of the significance of Manas in the development of diseases.

The gut-brain axis and the microbiota-gut-brain axis are affected by stress-induced changes in neuro endocrine-immune pathways, which in turn cause symptom flare-ups or exacerbation in IBS. Since IBS is a stress-sensitive disorder, managing stress and the reactions that stress causes should be the main focus of treatment.[9]

The Rome 3 criteria are used to rate IBS. Recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort lasting at least three days or a month and being linked to two or more of the following are the requirements.[10]

  • An alteration in defecation.
  • The onset of a change in bowel frequency.
  • The onset of the change in stool composition.

Ayurveda management of Grahani Dosha

The traditional text of Ayurveda suggested that Grahani Dosha may be treated by following concept of Langhana and using Deepana and Pachana medicines which help to potentiate Agni and eliminate ama. → Purgation therapy with stimulant drugs also helps to remove Ama → Husk of Ashvagol help in evacuation of stool. → Butter milk (Takra) also suggested by ancient Acharya for treatment of Grahani.

Life style modification in Grahani

Modification in life style and balanced diet regime along with consideration of Pathya Apathya help to cure Grahani.

Diet modification

  • Modification in diet pattern towards healthy eating habits boosts Agni & prevents chances of
  • Meal should be consumed at regular intervals.
  • Junk foods, allergic foods and food difficult to digest should be avoided.
  • Ayurveda mentioned balanced diet under Sansarjana Krama with routine diet plan depending on the Prakriti of the individual. Thus, patient of Grahani recommended to follow diet pattern of Sansarjana Krama.
  • One should avoid Abhojanat, Ajeernabhojanat, Attibhojanaat, Visamasanat, Asatmya and Sandusta Bhojanat
  • Preparation and consumption of unhygienic food articles. Diet containing balanced nutritional value need to be adopted.

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  • Virudha-Ahara must be avoided; means one should consume diet as per his/her internal constitution by following concept of Desha and Kala.

Dietary materials recommended for Grahani Roga are as follows

  • Diets which promote digestive enzyme; restore normal flora and maintain nutritional sufficiency should be adopted such as; fibers, fruit, vegetables, grains and curd.
  • Yavagu, Panchkola soup
  • Takrarista, Jangalmansa
  • Vegetable soups → Light diet and Soup of dried radish

Behaviour modification

Grahani symptoms can be triggered by behavioural factors like fear, grief, stress, and sleeplessness, suggesting the need to manage these to prevent depression affecting Agni.

Maintaining normal metabolic functioning requires positivity and enthusiasm, while avoiding excessive thinking and chintan habits can affect digestion, as brain circulation is primarily associated with the intestine.

One should consume diet by following rules of Swasthwarita in proper manner so to achieve max. beneficial effect of consumed food.[16-18]

Daily regimen modification/Exercise and Yoga

Regular exercise is essential for strengthening the body and Agni, and should be done at specific times throughout the day.

Mediation, Yoga, and Pranayama can help reduce stress and increase stress resistance, while Ayurveda recommends daily regimens like Ritucharya and Dinacharya for beneficial results.

Dhyan and Shodhna procedure, after fixed interval, also provides beneficial effects in Grahani.[19]

Importance of Butter Milk

For a patient suffering from the Grahani Dosha, butter milk is the excellent drink because it stimulates the power of digestion, it is Grahi and easily digestible. Butter milk is sweet, sour, astringent in taste; light and dry in properties, hot in potency and sweet in metabolism.

Because of Madhura (sweet) Vipaka, it does not cause aggravation of Pitta. Because of its astringent taste, hot in potency, it is useful for counteracting the aggravated Kapha. Because of the sweet and sour taste, it is useful for counteracting the aggravated Vayu. When freshly prepared it does not cause burning sensation.

Conclusion

Grahani is a digestive fire disease affecting Annavaha Srotas and life style patterns, causing abdominal pain, bloating, and disturbed bowel habits. Ayurveda offers various formulations and therapeutic modalities for management.

Tridoshatmaka disease of digestive fire occurs due to the vitiation of Agni; Jatharagni, Saman Vayu, Pachak Pitta and Kledaka Kapha. Disease characterized by abdominal pain, bloating and disturbed bowel habits.

Ayurveda offers wide range of formulations and therapeutic modalities along with suggestions to modify life style pattern which overall offers beneficial effects in the management of Grahani Roga.

References

1. Tripathi Brahmanand and Pandey G.S, Charaka Samhita of Agnivesa with Charaka Chandrika Hindi Commentory, 6th Ed., Varanasi: Chaukhamba Surbharati Prakashan., (Vol-1), 1999.

2. Shastri K. Ambikadatta, Sushruta Samhita of Maharsi Sushrut edited with Ayurveda Tattva Sandipika Hindi Commentary, 13th Ed., Varanasi: Chaukhamba Sanskrit Bhawan., (Vol-2), 2000.

3. Vridda Jeevaka- Kashyapa Samhita (Vriddajeevaka Tantra) by -Sharma Hemaraj Pandit (Nepal Rajguru) revised by Vatsya with Sanskrit introduction and Vidyothini Hindi Commentary, Varanasi: Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthan.,1994.

4. Rama Valamba Shashtri, Harita Samhita Edited with Asha Hindi Commentary, Varanasi: Prachya Prakashan., 1985.

5. Kashinath Shastri; Charak Samhita; Chikitsa Sthanam, chapter 15, verse no 51-52; Chaukhambha Bharati Academy; Varanasi; 2011; 461


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Neha M et al. A review article of Grahani Roga and its Ayurvedic management

6. Kaviraj Ambikadatta Shastri; Sushrut Samhita; Sutrasthana, chapter 15, verse no.48; Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan; Varanasi; 2011; 64

7. Vaidya Yadavaji Trikamji. Charaka Samhita with Ayurveda Dipika Commentary of Chakrapanidatta, (Chikitsa Sthana 15, Verse 12) Varanasi; Chaukhambha Prakashan ; p. 513.

8. Kaviraja Ambikadutta Shastri. Susruta Samhita of Maharishi Sushruta, Part –II (Uttaratantra 40, Verse 167). Varanasi; Chaukhamba Sanskriti Sansthan; 2008. p. 237

9. Charak Samhita by Pandit K. Shastri Published by Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan Varanasi, edition 2004 Chikitsasthan chapter 15 Shloka[51].

10. Charak Samhita by Pandit K. Shastri Published by Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan Varanasi, edition 2004 Chikitsasthan chapter 15 Shloka[59,65-72].

11. Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra by Kaviraj Kunja Lal Bhishagratna | 1916 page.105.

12. Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra by Kaviraj Kunja Lal Bhishagratna | 1916 page.106.

13. Principles of internal medicine vol-2 harrisons’s 15 editition page no 1692

14. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov › articles › PMC4202343

15. Sir Stanley Davidson, Ed: Brian R Walker, Nicki R College, Stuart H Ralston, Ian D Penman. Davidson‟s principles and practice of medicine. Churchil livingstone, Elsevier. 22nd edition, 2014; 907.

16. Vaidya Yadavaji Trikamji. Charaka Samhita with Ayurveda Dipika Commentary of Chakrapanidatta, (Chikitsa Sthana 15, Verse 12) Varanasi; Chaukhambha Prakashan; p. 513.

17. Kaviraja Ambikadutta Shastri. Susruta Samhita of Maharishi Sushruta, Part –II (Uttaratantra 40, Verse 167). Varanasi; Chaukhamba Sanskriti Sansthan; 2008. p. 237

18. Kaviraja Ambikadutta Shastri. Susruta Samhita of Maharishi Sushruta, Part –II (Uttaratantra 40, Verse 167). Varanasi; Chaukhamba Sanskriti Sansthan; 2008. p. 237. 10.

19. Kaviraja Ambikadutta Shastri. Susruta Samhita of Maharishi Sushruta, Part –II (Uttaratantra 40, Verse 172). Varanasi; Chaukhamba Sanskriti Sansthan; 2008. p. 239.


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