An Observational Study of Relation between Jatharagni(digestion) and Jivha(tongue)

Abstract

Ayurveda is science of life and life depends on Agni(digestive fire). Jatharagni(digestive fire of stomach),Dhatwagni(digestive fire related to body Dhatus)  and Bhootagni(digestive fire related to Mahabhoots) are three types of Agni in body. Another division is done on the basis of Paka (digestion) i.e., Tikshna(abnormaly high), Manda(low), Sama(proper),Vishama(sometimes proper). Jatharagni(main digestive fire that nourishes other agnis too) is considered main Agni in body which nourishes other Agnis in body. Acharya Vagbhatta considers Agnimandya(low digestive fire) as root cause of all diseases. Whenever there is Agnimandya it causes formation of Ama(indigested food). It’s manifestations can be seen over tongue. It causes coating of tongue. Acharya Yogratnakar suggested JivhaPariksha(tongue examination) under Ashtavidha(8 types)Pariksha. To find this relation,this study was conducted over 350 volunteers. Tongue photographs were taken (before and after brushing)and volunteers were asked questions as per questionnaire. Assessment of Jatharagni status was done with validated format over tongue health. Suitable test(Chi-square) was used to reach conclusion,where this relation found true and not by chance.