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Review Article

Agnibala and Dehabala

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 1 JANUARY
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

Agnibala and Dehabala Synergy: Bridging Digestive Power and Physical Resilience

Shalini1*, MB Gaur2
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.1.19

1* Shalini, Post Graduate Scholar, Post Graduate Department of Kriya Sharir, Ch Brahm Prakash Ayurved Charak Sansthan, Khera Dabar, New Delhi, India.

2 MB Gaur, Director Principle Professor and HOD, Department of Kriya Sharir, Ch Brahm Prakash Ayurved Charak Sansthan, Khera Dabar, New Delhi, India.

In Ayurvedic medicine, patient diagnosis and treatment are deeply personalized, considering several key physiological and psychological factors such as Agni (digestive fire), Bala (strength), Prakriti (constitution), Sara (tissue quality), and Sanhanan (endurance). Among these, Agni and Bala hold a particularly ignescent role in determining overall health. Agni, as emphasized by the ancient Ayurvedic sages, is the cornerstone of life, responsible for longevity, physical vigor, mental acuity, complexion, immunity, vitality, and even life force. Among Agni’s types, proper functioning of Jatharagni ensures that all bodily systems receive adequate nourishment, maintaining homeostasis. Conversely, impaired Agni leads to systemic imbalances and disease. Agni is, therefore, driving force behind Bala, a concept synonymous with the body’s innate immunity. Bala itself is a multifaceted concept, comprising two primary dimensions: Dehabala (physical strength) and Manasbala (mental fortitude). In Ayurvedic texts, Bala is often equated with Ojas, the vital essence that sustains life and provides strength. Ancient treatises prescribe numerous methods for assessing Bala, including rigorous physical assessment through Vyayama Shakti. Dehabala, reflecting one’s physical fitness, can be quantified by evaluating one’s stamina and endurance during physical exertion, (Harvard step test) a reliable marker of overall vitality. This exploration of the intricate interplay between Agnibala and Dehabala aims to deepen our understanding of how these core Ayurvedic principles contribute to the body’s resilience and vitality. Such insights not only enhance clinical practice but also pave the way for refining and advancing Ayurvedic science for the benefit of both patients and the broader medical field.

Keywords: Agni, Jhataragni, Dehabala, Ojas, Immunity, Vyayama, Harvard step test

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Shalini, Post Graduate Scholar, Post Graduate Department of Kriya Sharir, Ch Brahm Prakash Ayurved Charak Sansthan, Khera Dabar, New Delhi, India.
Email: 		Shalini, MB Gaur, Agnibala and Dehabala Synergy: Bridging Digestive Power and Physical Resilience. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(1):145-150.
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Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2024-12-17 2024-12-26 2025-01-04 2025-01-14 2025-01-25
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None Nil Not required 12.52

© 2025by Shalini, MB Gaurand 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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Shalini et al. Agnibala and Dehabala Synergy

Introduction

Ayurvedic medical system, has preserved its distinctive identity from ancient times to present due to its foundational principles as Panchmahabhuta, Dosha, Dhatu, Agni, Bala, Achaar Rasayana, Rasayana and Vajikarana illustrate its holistic approach to health. Agni, a manifestation of Pitta dosha, orchestrates all digestive and metabolic processes within human body. When Agni operates optimally, it fosters longevity and overall well-being,[1] encapsulated in principle: Yukte Chiram Jivayati Anamayah. Conversely, Charaka emphasized that extinguishing of Agni precipitates swift mortality, underscoring its paramount significance in health. Within body, there are 13[2] distinct types of Agni: one Jatharagni (digestive fire), seven Dhatvagni (tissue fires), and five Bhutagni (elemental fires), with Jatharagni recognized as most pivotal.[3] Charaka Samhita asserts that strength of Agni directly correlates with body’s physical endurance. To evaluate Bala of a patient, Ayurveda employs Dasha Vidha or Dwadasha Vidha Pareeksha (ten or twelvefold examination), assessing both Sharirika (physical strength) and Mansika (mental fortitude) Bala. Bala is understood as Prakrit Kapha or Ojas, symbolizing body’s immunity against internal and external pathogenic influences. Dehabala, or physical fitness, augments this immunity and aids in disease prevention. Thus, this literature review endeavours to illuminate intricate relationship between Agnibala and Dehabala. Grasping link between Agnibala (digestive power) and Dehabala (physical strength) enables highly tailored Ayurvedic treatments, enhancing immunity, vitality, and disease prevention. This synergy fuels optimized recovery, balanced energy, and holistic well-being for lasting health.

Material And Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Ayurvedic databases, such as Ayurvedic Journals and websites. Keywords and phrases such as Agnibala, Dehabala, "Ayurveda," "immunity," were utilized to identify relevant articles. The search was limited to peer-reviewed articles, clinical studies, and classical Ayurvedic texts published in English and other languages as appropriate.

Agni

Classical Review

Agni, the quintessential essence of life, is fundamental to our existence; when it is extinguished, life itself comes to an end, but when it is skilfully nurtured, it paves the way for longevity and a vibrant, disorder-free life. As a cornerstone of Ayurveda - the ancient science of life - Agni plays a pivotal role in the digestion, absorption, and assimilation of food, all of which are essential for sustaining life. The intricate process by which food is transformed into the appropriate Dhatus and how nutrients are metabolized to produce the energy necessary for vital activities hinges upon the dynamic state of Agni. Thus, the overall integrity and vitality of the human body are profoundly influenced by the condition of Agni. In ancient Ayurvedic texts, Agni is classified into three primary types

1. Jatharagni (digestive fire)
2. Bhutagni (elemental fire)
3. Dhatvagni (tissue fire)

Additionally, the Apachara Sahana Parikshana[4] identifies four types of Agni based on intensity

1. Teekshna (Intense): Teekshnagni possesses the remarkable ability to digest even the heaviest meals in a remarkably short time, often resulting in voracious hunger - a condition referred to as Atyagni (or Bhasmaka by some authorities).[5]

2. Manda (Mild): Mandagni operates with a contrasting, more subdued energy, processing food at a leisurely pace.[6]

3. Vishama (Irregular): Vishama Agni behaves unpredictably, sometimes facilitating complete digestion, while at other times leading to rapid or sluggish processing of food.[7]

4. Sama (Regular): Sama Agni ensures thorough and timely digestion of food, characterized by its consistency and regularity.[8]

Among these, Jatharagni is regarded as the premier form of Agni. Beyond its vital role in digesting ingested food, Jatharagni nourishes the other forms of Agni, establishing itself as an indispensable force for maintaining physiological equilibrium. All commentators and acharyas designate Grahani as the primary seat of Jatharagni,


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situated between the Pakwashaya (large intestine) and Amashaya (stomach). In the Ayurvedic worldview, the universe is fundamentally Panchabhautic, implying that Panchabhutic Agni is dispersed throughout the body, eluding precise localization. Each Dhatu houses its unique Dhatvagni, intricately linked to the status of Jatharagni.

The strength of Jatharagni can be assessed through various factors, including Abhyvharana Shakti (digestive capacity), Jaranashakti (digestive efficiency), Prakriti (constitution), Ritu (season), Vaya (age), and Mala (waste). Furthermore, the Agnibala (digestive strength) of an individual is influenced by an array of factors such as age, constitution, seasonal variations, and daily habits. Any decrement or exacerbation in Jatharagni directly affects the corresponding Bhutagni and Dhatvagni. A fundamental relationship exists between Agni and the Amsha (component) of Agni present in each Dhatu. The constituents of Jatharagni, while engaged in their digestive role, nourish the respective Amsha within the Dhatus. Depending on whether Jatharagni is hyperactive or underactive, the Dhatu may either undergo atrophy or hypertrophy.[9] Thus, the vigilant maintenance of Jatharagni's optimal status is essential, as it is intrinsically tied to the vitality and very essence of life itself.

Contemporary Review

In essence, Agni serves as a bio transforming agent, akin to modern concepts of catalysts, enzymes, and hormones. It orchestrates all physiological and biochemical aspects of metabolism, facilitating the transformation of ingested food into Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala. This parallels the role of various hormones and enzymes, particularly thyroid hormones (10) (T3, T4, and TSH), which govern cellular metabolism and specialized bodily functions according to contemporary scientific understanding.

Bala

Ayurveda identifies Ojas as the supreme essence of the Dhatus, beginning with Rasa and culminating in Shukra, and equates it with Bala - the core element responsible for imparting strength to both the body and mind. Bala is divided into two components: Dehabala (physical strength) and Manasbala (mental strength).

These components are crucial for nourishment, vitality, stability, and sustaining life from conception until death. While present in intrauterine life, Bala must continuously be acquired throughout one’s postnatal existence. In Ayurveda, the concept of Bala has a broad spectrum, encompassing Prakrit Kapha, Ojas, and Sara. Prakrit Kapha is the innate source of Bala, which nourishes the body, promotes immunity, and sustains life. Ojas is the cause, and Bala is its effect, making the two synonymous in their functions—Ojas generates Bala, and Bala manifests as the body’s strength and immunity.

1. Charaka Samhita: States that Kapha, in its balanced state, is responsible for Bala, ultimately known as Ojas. Individuals with Kapha depletion or excess are more susceptible to illness due to reduced Bala or Vyadhikshamatva (immunity).[11]
2. Sushruta Samhita: Describes Ojas as the supreme essence of Dhatus, which is itself Bala. It bestows physical stability, muscle growth, clarity of speech, brightness of complexion, and optimal functioning of sensory organs.[12]

Stages of Ojas Vikriti[13]

Oja Visrans, Oja Vyapad and Oja Kshaya are the three stages of Oja Vikriti which may occur in various conditions and diseases ranging from physical and mental fatigue to acute and chronic mild and severe type of diseases.

Review of Bala

Sushruta defines Bala as the power to resist decay and disease, deriving from Ojas. Bala encompasses both Dehabala (physical strength) and Manasbala (mental strength).

1. Manasbala (mental strength) relates to the Sattva (psychological disposition) of an individual and is classified into:
A) Uttama (excellent): Strong mental resilience, remaining calm and fearless even in illness.
B) Madhyama (moderate): Moderate resilience; may experience confusion but calms down with reassurance.
C) Heena (weak): Low mental strength; becomes highly agitated by even minor illness and is difficult to console.

2. Dehabala (physical strength) is observed in two states

  • Prakruta Avastha: Normal state of physical strength.

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  • Vikruta Avastha: Altered or vitiated state due to Dosha imbalance, affecting strength. Dehabala is further classified as

1. Pravara: Excellent strength.
2. Madhyama: Moderate strength.
3. Avara: Poor strength.

Factors Influencing the Accumulation of Strength:[14]

  • Birth during a favourable time (auspicious astrological factors).
  • Beneficial environmental conditions (moderate and pleasant climate).
  • Excellence of parental Beeja (sperm and ovum) and Ashaya (uterus).
  • Quality of diet.
  • Wholesomeness (Satmya) of lifestyle habits.
  • Mental clarity and disposition.
  • Favourable natural conditions.
  • Youthfulness and vitality.
  • Regular exercise and physical activity.
  • Optimistic attitude and cheerfulness.

Measurement of Bala

Physical strength (Dehabala) is generally assessed through Vyayama Shakti[15] (capacity for exercise) and Sarata Pariksha (examination of tissue quality). These evaluations provide insights into the individual’s overall physical fitness and resilience. In conclusion, the intricate relationship between Ojas and Bala, as described in classical Ayurveda, emphasizes their fundamental role in maintaining health, vitality, and immunity. Understanding the state of Ojas and Bala is critical for preventing disease and promoting longevity, making it a key focus in both Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatment.

Contemporary Review

Dehabala, or physical strength, refers to the vitality and endurance a person gains through proper nourishment from food. Once food is ingested, it undergoes digestion, where essential nutrients are extracted and absorbed into the bloodstream. These nutrients are then circulated throughout the body, powered by the heart's rhythmic pumping, ensuring every tissue and organ is sufficiently nourished. A well-nourished body,

driven by efficient metabolic processes, sustains its ability to perform daily activities, recover from exertion, and resist fatigue or illness. In essence, Dehabala is the foundational force that upholds physical fitness, stamina, and mental clarity, all rooted in the effective transformation and distribution of energy derived from food.

Thus, a person’s physical strength and endurance are directly linked to how well their body processes and assimilates nutrients, underscoring the importance of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet for sustaining both body and mind.

Assessment of Physical Fitness

The Harvard Step Test[16] is a cardiac stress assessment used to measure cardiovascular endurance and fitness recovery post-exercise.

It involves stepping on a standard bench while monitoring pulse response, providing insights into one’s ability to sustain prolonged physical activity. Cardiac Efficiency Index is calculated from this test, with scores categorized as follows

  • Over 90% = Excellent Efficiency
  • 81-90% = Good Efficiency
  • 55-80% = Average Efficiency
  • Below 55% = Poor Efficiency

Grading of Dehabala Based on Efficiency Index:

1. Excellent and good Cardiac Efficiency Index graded as Pravara Dehabala.
2. Average Cardiac Efficiency Index were graded as Madhyama Dehabala.
3. Poor Cardiac Efficiency Index were graded as Avara Dehabala.

Agni-Bala Relationship[17]

According to the Charaka Samhita, the body's Bala (strength) is intrinsically linked to the optimal functioning of all Dhatus (tissues), which are nourished by the action of Agni on ingested food.

A well-functioning Agni ensures proper digestion and assimilation, converting food into Aahar-Rasa (nutritive essence), which, when metabolized by Rasadi Agni, forms healthy Rasadi Dhatus. Saman Vayu further enhances the power of Jatharagni (digestive fire), thus fostering overall strength.


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Discussion

Dehabala, or physical strength in Ayurveda, is intricately tied to nourishment and the metabolic processes governed by Agni. This mirrors modern concepts of cardiovascular and metabolic health, where efficient energy production and nutrient distribution play a key role in maintaining physical endurance. In Ayurveda, Jatharagni is responsible for transforming food into Aahar Rasa, which nourishes the body's tissues, fueling both strength and vitality. Modern physiology draws a striking parallel: the cardiovascular system delivers oxygen and nutrients to cells, ensuring that the body maintains strength and stamina. Just as a balanced Agni ensures proper tissue formation and vitality, a well-functioning heart and metabolic system underpin physical fitness. One contemporary tool to measure this strength is the Harvard Step Test, which evaluates cardiac efficiency by gauging how well the heart recovers post-exercise - a key indicator of cardiovascular endurance. The test provides an efficiency index that directly correlates with an individual's fitness level, a concept that reflects the Ayurvedic principle of Dehabala. In Ayurveda, Saman Vayu aids Jatharagni in processing food and distributing nourishment, much like how cardiac output ensures the efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the body’s tissues in modern physiology. If Agni is weakened, the tissues and Ojas (the essence of strength and immunity) suffer, just as poor heart function leads to diminished endurance and weakened strength in modern health contexts. This holistic correlation between Agnibala and Dehabala - as seen in Ayurveda and mirrored in modern cardiovascular science - demonstrates how balanced metabolism and robust cardiac health are essential for both preventing disease and sustaining physical vitality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, symbiotic relationship between Agnibala & Dehabala is a cornerstone of holistic health in Ayurveda, illuminating intricate connections between nourishment & vitality. Agnibala serves as bedrock of our physical resilience, underpinning body’s ability to effectively digest, absorb, & assimilate nutrients. This digestive fortitude directly fuels Dehabala, as transformation of food into Aahar Rasa through dynamic process of Jatharagni nourishes body’s tissues,

empowering both strength and endurance. When Agni is harmonious and vibrant, it orchestrates a rich supply of nutrients that not only fortify bodily tissues but also bolster the immune system, enhancing our ability to ward off disease. Conversely, any disturbance in Agnibala - whether from suboptimal dietary choices, lifestyle habits, or environmental factors - can lead to compromised nutrient absorption and diminished Dehabala. This interplay serves as a powerful reminder that physical strength is intrinsically tied to the health of our digestive system. Therefore, nurturing a robust Agnibala is essential for amplifying Dehabala, allowing individuals to unlock their full physical potential and achieve greater overall well-being. By embracing and cultivating this vital connection, we can adopt a holistic approach to health that recognizes digestion as the foundation for physical strength, resilience, and vitality. Ultimately, the harmonious interplay between Agnibala and Dehabala illustrates that optimal health is not merely the absence of illness, but rather a vibrant equilibrium of digestive efficiency and physical prowess, empowering us to lead lives of strength and vigor. Understanding the intricate connection between Agnibala and Dehabala paves the way for personalized Ayurvedic treatments that significantly enhance immunity, vitality, and disease prevention. This synergy not only supports optimized recovery but also fosters a harmonious balance of energy, contributing to comprehensive well-being.

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