GUT–BRAIN AXIS: AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON THE INTERRELATIONSHIP OF AGNI, GRAHANI, VATA AND MANAS

Abstract

Background: The concept of a bidirectional communication network between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system the 'Gut–Brain Axis' has emerged as a pivotal paradigm in contemporary biomedical research. Remarkably, classical Ayurvedic texts articulate an analogous framework centuries before modern neurogastroenterology, primarily through the concepts of Agni (digestive and metabolic fire), Grahani (the seat of digestive function, correlating with the small intestine and enteric nervous system), Vata Dosha (the governing force of nervous transmission), and Manas (mind-body intelligence).

Objective: This review aims to critically examine and correlate the Ayurvedic understanding of the gut–mind interrelationship with contemporary findings in neurogastroenterology, microbiome science, and psychoneuroimmunology.

Methods: A comprehensive review of Ayurvedic classical texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridayam was conducted alongside current peer-reviewed literature in neurogastroenterology and microbiome research.

Results & Conclusion: Striking conceptual parallels exist between Grahani and the enteric nervous system, between Agni and digestive enzyme-microbiome dynamics, and between Sadhaka Pitta–Prana Vata interactions and the vagal neuroendocrine pathways. These correlations validate Ayurveda's holistic model and open integrative therapeutic avenues for conditions such as Grahani Dosha (irritable bowel syndrome), Unmada (psychiatric disorders), and psychosomatic illness.