The importance of Agni in Sthaulya Vyadhi with special reference to obesity – a literature review

Abstract

Obesity is one among the major diseases of modern era, increasing in prevalence. Sthaulya (Obesity) is well known from the Samhita period and is considered to be one of the eight undesirable conditions (AshtaNindita). It can be caused due to Mandagni as Agni is considered to be responsible for metabolism. Thus, a formed moves within body, further causing Medovruddhi, which produces excessive stoutness. According to modern science, among the many causes one of the causes for obesity is sedentary lifestyle, where there is more intake of fast food and less physical activity as compare to intake. Agni is sole cause for existence of life and its extinction leads to death; its proper maintenance helps to live a long life.  There are four different states of jatharagni such as Visham (irregular), teekshna (intenese), Manda (weak or less powered) and Sama(well maintained and regular) states. Among the four different states of Agni Smagni is considerd as normal one, all others are considered as abnormal. Ashtau Ahara Vidhi Vishesh Ayatanas (eight rules for eating) explained in Ayurveda, is only carried out by Samagni. Agni is one of the important and basic phenomena of the life. It should be maintained at any cost to live a disease free life. State of Agni is having dominant role in the manifestation of lifestyle disorders as obesity is considerd as one of the life style disorder. Maintenance of Smagniis essential for the disease free life especially for diseases associated with lifestyle such as sthaulya.