Studies in effect of in-vitro digestion of some of the Dravyas with respect to their Vipaka - A Research Article

Abstract

Vipaka is a unique concept of Ayurveda. It is the post digestive effect of any ingested substance. These can be in either of the two forms: Ahara Dravya (food) or Aushadh Dravya (medicine). Once the digestion of these substances takes place in the gastro-intestinal tract, it is metabolized and transformed into an absorbable form which is called Vipaka. In general understanding Vipaka is the final bio-transformation of digested food/drug. The term “Vi” (of Vipak) is ‘Vishishta’ means specific or special, and “Paka” refers to digestion or the function of Agni (digestive power or biological power). Any substance when ingested, it is digested and metabolized by the action of different specific Agnis (biological fire) i.e., Jatharagni, Bhutagni, and Dhatwagni of the body. During the entire process, the ingested substance decomposes and re-synthesizes several times for further absorption and assimilation process. This can also be referred to life experiences. In this study we will discuss and concluded different Dravya and their Vipaka.