Integrative Insights into Agni Dysregulation and Thyroid Hypofunction: Narrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: In Ayurveda, Agni(digestive/metabolic factors) is regarded as the central regulatory force in maintaining physiological homeostasis. It is responsible for the digestion, absorption, assimilation and transformation of food into Dhatus(body tissues). Agnimandya (Impairment of Agni)  is considered the root cause of most diseases. Ashtanaga Hridaya has quoted “Rogau Sarve Api Mandagnau” Which means disturbance in Agni due to improper diet, lifestyle and stress contributes to the development of dysbiosis, leading to various organ system diseases.  Although,  thyroid gland and its disorders are not explicitly referenced in Ayurvedic texts, the clinical features of hypothyroidism such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and mental sluggishness closely correlate with the derangement of Agni, Kapha Dosha and Rasadhatu. Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts and contemporary scientific literature. Electronic databases including PubMed and the AYUSH Research Portal were searched using predefined keywords related to Ayurveda, Hypothyroidism, Agni AND homeostasis and Ayurveda AND thyroid disorders. English-language review and clinical studies were included. Reference lists of selected articles were also screened. Result: The review highlights that digestion is governed by Jatharagni and Panchabhautika Agni, while Dhatvagni facilitates molecular transformation of nutrients into Dhatus through Prasada (nutrient) and Kitta (waste) formation. Balanced Jatharagni and Dhatvagni are essential for proper tissue growth, metabolism, and nutrients transport at the cellular level. Findings suggest that hypothyroidism reflects a state of Agnimandya, particularly involving Rasadhatvagni, with predominant Kapha aggravation and sluggish metabolic activity. This imbalance disrupts Srotasa (bodily channels), leading to systemic dysfunction. Conclusion: Understanding hypothyroidism through Agni imbalance offers an integrative framework, linking Jatharagni, Bhutagni, and Dhatwagni to digestive, hepatic, and cellular metabolism. This perspective emphasizes Agni’s central role in maintaining homeostasis via regulation of digestion, metabolism, and waste elimination.