Grahani (ग्रहणी)

Grahani is the seat of Agni (digestive fire), identified as the small intestine (specifically the duodenum). Its functio.

Ayurvedic Principles (Siddhanta Kosha) 1 min read
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Sanskrit Verse

अग्नेरधिष्ठानमन्नस्य ग्रहणाद् ग्रहणी मता।

— (Charaka Samhita, Chikitsasthana 15/56)

Explanation

Grahani is the seat of Agni (digestive fire), identified as the small intestine (specifically the duodenum). Its function is to ‘grasp’ or hold onto the food (Grahana) until it is properly digested. The term Grahani is also used for the disease that occurs when this function is impaired due to a weak Agni. The cardinal symptom is passing undigested food, often alternating between constipation and diarrhea.

Clinical Importance

Grahani Roga corresponds to a wide range of modern intestinal disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), malabsorption, and Crohn’s disease. Its treatment is complex and focuses entirely on restoring the function of Agni.