CORRELATION OF JATHARAGNI WITH BASAL METABOLIC RATE IN HEALTHY ADULTS

Article History: Submission: 11-01-2022; Revision: 27-02-2022; Acceptance: 20-08-2022, DOI Information: https://doi.org/10.56815/IJMSCI.V2I1.2022/1-16

Abstract

Agni is always present in the paka process (digestive and transformative process). The digestion, absorption, and assimilation of the food taken into the body are an inevitable process essential to life support, known as Agni. The ayurvedic literature describes four types of Jatharagni balanced (Samagni), hyperactive (Tikhshnagni), hypoactive (Mandagni) and irregular (Vishbamagni). The metabolic efficiency differences among the stages are reflected in the changes in modern physiology. Samggni, harmonizes with the correct basal metabolic rate (BMR) and with the correct enzymatic activity, promoting efficient energy generation, proper nutrient use, and the maintenance of internal balance. Symptoms of Mandagni are like those of hypothyroidism or "metabolism slowing"-loss of energy, delayed digestion, weight gain or exhaustion. Like hyperthyroid states, ikshnagni, leads to hypermetabolism, causing heightened energy expenditure, quick digestion and sometimes weight loss. Ushamagni, is an indicator of metabolic imbalance and inexplicable fluctuations in appetite and energy. Some examples of modern-day correlations include neuroendocrine control of energy expenditure, thyroid hormones, gut
bacteria, digestive enzymes, and gastric secretions. New integrative research suggests that investigating Jatharagni through clinical symptoms, including hunger, digestive quality, doshas, and pulse diagnosis, can provide predictive information on changes in basal metabolic rate (BMR) and metabolic health in humans. This study combines traditional Ayurvedic texts with contemporary physiological research to underscore potential integrative approaches for personalized nutrition, lifestyle management and preventive health care. Ashtanga Hridaya, Sushruta Samhita and Charaka Samhita are the texts concerned. There is a need for further clinical validation because there is no quantitative comparison data with healthy populations.