Abstract

Dr. Utkarsha S. Kulkarni* and Dr. Gayatri S. Sawant

ABSTRACT

Health is defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, rather than merely the absence of disease. Every living being seeks a disease-free life; however, lifestyle disorders have become prevalent due to sedentary habits, unhealthy eating, and stress. In Ayurveda, maintaining health and preventing disease requires addressing both physical imbalances (Sharirik Doshas) and mental imbalances (Mansik Doshas), as both the body and mind can be sources of disease.[1] In Ayurveda, a healthy individual is defined by the balance of the three doshas, proper functioning of jatharagni (digestive fire), healthy dhathus (tissues), efficient elimination of malas (wastes), and a content soul and mind.[2] Agni is considered the source of life, and its proper maintenance is crucial for longevity. When agni is weak, digestion is poor, leading to the formation of ama (toxins) in the body, which causes low energy, poor circulation, weakened immunity, and other health issues. Therefore, promoting the proper function of agni is essential in addressing the root causes of diseases. In the context of mental disorders, the concept of agni (digestive fire) is similar to its role in physical health. According to Ayurveda, ojas represents the vital energy that bridges physical, mental, and spiritual well- being. Charakacharya, explained that the proper functioning of ojas is directly dependent on the balanced state of prakrut agni (healthy digestive fire).[3] When agni is in its natural, balanced state, it supports the production and maintenance of ojas, which in turn promotes overall health. Conversely, any imbalance in agni can lead to disturbances in ojas, affecting both physical and mental health. Ojas is quantifiable liquid in the body, responsible for overall health, energy, and liveliness. It is both physical and mental factor. Therefore, this article is an attempt to explain how the thought of agni is distorted Ojas vikruti and in mental disorders.