A critical review on importance of Agni with special reference to its role in Allergic Rhinitis

Abstract

According to Ayurveda, when Doshas, Dhatus, and Malas are in Sama-Awastha and Indriya, Aatma, and Mana all are working properly then this state is considered as ‘Swastha’. To maintain the state of health, Agni should be Samagni which means in the normal state. Ingested food is to be digested, absorbed and assimilated, which is unavoidable for the maintenance of life, and is performed by Agni in Ayurveda. Agni is the invariable agent consisting digestive and different kinds of hormones, enzymes, and co-enzymes activities which plays important role in the process of digestion and transformation. Therefore, Agni is responsible for strength, health, longevity; vital breath and it determines the quantity of food to be consumed. Agni plays a huge part to keep up with body homeostasis, body working, digestion of the body, and legitimate working of the body. Major factors that cause diminished power of Jatharagni in human body includes the changing lifestyle and unhealthy food habits. Manda Jatharagni, if untreated leads to the formation of Ama Rasa. Thus, Ama formed results in Srotorodha which leads to Avarana of Udana Vata by Kapha, Pitta and Prana Vata further cause Khavaigunya. Rasavaha and Raktavaha Srotas gets vitiated and systemic manifestations are seen. In the process, Pranavaha Srotas gets vitiated, manifesting local symptoms of Pratishyaya or Allergic Rhinitis. Thus, Ayurveda considers that Agni is the cause of life, complexion, strength, health, nourishment, Oja, Teja and Prana (life energy).