THE GUT–BRAIN AXIS: AN AYURVEDIC INTERPRETATION OF GRAHANI, AGNI AND MANOVAHA SROTAS

The gut–brain axis describes bidirectional communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system through neural, endocrine, immune, and microbial pathways. Its clinical relevance is evident in disorders of gut–brain interaction, in which altered motility, visceral sensitivity, and central processing can contribute to symptoms. Ayurveda discusses digestive and mental function through concepts including Grahani, Agni, and Manovaha Srotas. This conceptual review examines how these frameworks may inform a dialogue about digestion, emotional experience, and patient care. Selected classical-text presentations, contemporary biomedical literature, clinical guidance, and intervention studies were reviewed narratively. Grahani provides a traditional account of digestive retention and processing, Agni describes transformative capacity, and Manovaha Srotas concerns mental function within an Ayurvedic framework. These concepts offer interpretive parallels, but they are not established equivalents of the intestinal microbiome, digestive enzymes, vagal pathways, or contemporary psychiatric diagnoses. Responsible integration combines culturally meaningful health education with appropriate diagnostic assessment and evidence-based dietary, medical, and psychological care. Specific Ayurvedic interventions require independent evaluation of their efficacy, quality, and safety.