A REVIEW ARTICLE ON AMAVATA: ETYMOLOGICAL BASIS AND THE ROLE OF AGNI IN PATHOGENESIS

Amavata is a challenging disease in Ayurvedic clinical practice, known for its complex origin and painful symp-toms. It is broadly understood as a condition where Ama (undigested metabolic waste) combines with Vata dosha, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain, especially in the joints. This article presents a conceptual review of Amavata, focusing on its naming logic (etymology) and the core Ayurvedic factors behind its develop-ment, particularly the role of Agnimandya and the formation of Ama. In Ayurveda, the Agni is considered a fundamental principle for maintaining health. When the Agni becomes im-paired, the body fails to properly digest food, resulting in the accumulation of Ama. If not corrected in time, this Ama accumulates in various parts of the body. In the case of Amavata, the vitiated Vata dosha carries this Ama into the joints and tissues, triggering a cascade of pathological changes. Therefore, a primary disturbance in di-gestion progressively transforms into a systemic inflammatory disorder characterised by joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Through classical references and logical analysis, this review aims to deepen the understanding of Amavata not only as a joint disorder, but also as a systemic disease rooted in digestive dysfunction. Such a perspective is es-sential for Ayurvedic practitioners to design more effective, individualised treatment approaches and to bridge traditional insights with modern autoimmune concepts, such as rheumatoid arthritis.