AGNI AND PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS (CHINTA): IMPACT ON APPETITE AND DIGESTION – AN AYURVEDIC AND CONTEMPORARY REVIEW

Abstract

Agni is the fundamental biological and metabolic principle described in Ayurveda, governing digestion, metabolism, tissue nourishment, vitality, immunity, and mental clarity. Classical Ayurvedic texts repeatedly emphasize that the functional integrity of Agni is inseparably linked to psychological states, collectively described as Manasika Bhavas. Among these, Chinta (psychological stress, excessive worry, or sustained mental preoccupation) is identified as a potent causative factor for Agni Dushti, impaired appetite, faulty digestion, and psychosomatic disease manifestation. Contemporary biomedical science similarly recognizes psychological stress as a critical modulator of appetite regulation, digestive physiology, metabolic homeostasis, and the gut–brain axis. This review critically analyzes classical Ayurvedic literature and correlates it with modern scientific evidence to elucidate the relationship between psychological stress and Agni, with special emphasis on its effects on appetite and digestion. The paper highlights Agni as a psychosomatic regulator and underscores the relevance of integrative approaches for the prevention and management of stress-related digestive and metabolic disorders.