AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY TO ASSESS THE STATUS OF AGNI IN VARSHARITU

Introduction: Ayurveda explains various concepts regarding physiological functioning and biological response according to various Ritu’s. Agni (digestive/metabolic fire) is considered an essential biological factor affected by Ritu (season). The strength of Agni is directly influenced by a change in Ritu. Its strength fluctuates with sea-sonal changes (Ritu), especially weakening during Varsha Ritu (Rainy Season), due to Tridosha vitiation, pre-dominantly Vata and stronger in another Ritu like Hemanta Ritu. Objectives: Present study was conducted to assess the functional status of Agni during Varsha Ritu among healthy young adults. Materials and Methods: An observational study was conducted among 165 individuals aged 18–25 years at Moodubidire, Karnataka. Agni of the participants were assessed using a validated Agni assessment tool. Results: The percentage and fre-quency of each Agni type, including Samagni, Vishamagni, Teekshnagni, and Mandagni, were analyzed. Among 165 participants, 64.85% were observed with Vishamagni type, 29.70% with Samagni type, 4.24% with Mandagni type and 1.21% with Teekshnagni type. Conclusion: The predominance of Vishamagni during Varsha Ritu substantiates the classical understanding of seasonal effect on Agni. The observation supports the Ayurvedic view that Varsha Ritu is associated with Prakopa (aggravation) of Vata Dosha, leading to Vishamagni. Ritu-charya (Seasonal regimens) are essential to preserve Agni and prevent seasonal disorders. The knowledge of Agni helps us to plan the diet in Varsha Ritu to correct the vitiated Dosha, to avoid the forthcoming disease, and to maintain a healthy life.