Majjagni

[Full title: Majjagni: A Classical Ayurvedic Appraisal of Marrow Metabolism and its Pathogenetic Role in Majja Pradoshaja Vikara]

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© 2025 Gurpreet Kaur Gill, et al . This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). ( https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ ) REVIEW ARTICLE Majjagni: A Classical Ayurvedic Appraisal of Marrow Metabolism and its Pathogenetic Role in Majja Pradoshaja Vikara Gurpreet Kaur Gill 1 * , Chhaju Ram Yadav 2 , Sarika Yadav 3 1 PhD Scholar, PG Department of Kriya Sharir, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India 2 Dean and HOD, PG Department of Kriya Sharir, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India 3 Assistant Professor, PG Department of Kriya Sharir, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India ABSTRACT Introduction: In Ayurvedic physiology, Majjagni (the tissue-specific metabolic fire associated with Majja Dhatu ) plays a critical role in the biotransformation, nourishment, and maintenance of bone marrow and neural tissues. Despite its critical significance, the precise physiological and pathological dimensions of Majjagni , particularly in the context of Majja Pradoshaja Vikara, remain under-defined within classical discourse Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review of classical Ayurvedic treatises and standard reference texts was undertaken to delineate the Ayurvedic understanding of Majjagni . Descriptive analysis and thematic synthesis were employed to interpret its role in tissue metabolism and disease causation Discussion: The review highlights Majjagni as a key determinant in sustaining Majja Dhatu homeostasis, supporting structural integrity, immunity, and neural function. Aberrations in Majjagni lead to the onset of Majja Pradoshaja Vikara , characterized by either pathological accumulation or depletion of marrow tissue, resulting in systemic and neuromuscular dysfunction. Classical Ayurvedic text also attributes a stimulatory role to Vata , which aligns conceptually with modern neuroendocrine regulation. Interpretive correlations with pituitary-adrenal hormones and hematopoietic modulators underscore Ayurveda’s sophisticated recognition of the neuroendocrine-immune dynamics governing marrow metabolism Conclusion: However, the lack of explicit diagnostic criteria for Majjagni -mediated pathologies remains a key limitation, warranting further research to refine its clinical assessment and enhance its relevance within Ayurvedic diagnostics and therapeutic frameworks 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1. Background Ayurveda , the traditional medical system of India, describes metabolism in terms of Agni (biological fire), which operates at multiple levels. Beyond the central digestive fire, i.e., Jatharagni , Ayurveda postulates Dhatvagni – metabolic fires specific to each Dhatu (tissue) [1,2] Majjagni is the Dhatvagni of Majja Dhatu , the sixth tissue in the classical hierarchy of seven Dhatu . The term Majja literally means “marrow,” and classical sources interpret it as Corresponding Author: Gurpreet Kaur Gill, PhD Scholar, PG Department of Kriya Sharir, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur - 302 002, Rajasthan, India. Phone: +91-9465740543/+91-7009775297. Email: gillgurpreet 1012@gmail.com the substance filling the bone cavities, including both bone marrow and the substance of the brain and spinal cord [3-5] Thus, Majja Dhatu encompasses the central nervous system and the hematopoietic marrow, making it a tissue of prime importance for both structural support and neurological function. In Ayurvedic physiology, Majjagni is responsible for the proper formation and nourishment of Majja Dhatu . As the nutritive continuum of Ahara Rasa is progressively digested and assimilated, the precursor fractions of preceding Asthi Dhatu possessing inherent potential for Majja synthesis are acted upon by Majjagni , facilitating the formation and nourishment of Majja Dhatu [6,7] Thus, Majjagni can be understood as the aggregate of metabolic processes that create, maintain, and regulate the Majja Dhatu, which can be correlated with bone marrow and related neural tissues International Research Journal of Ayurveda & Yoga Vol. 8(5), pp. 39-44, May, 2025 Available online at http://irjay.com ISSN: 2581-785 X DOI: 10.48165/IRJAY.2025.80507 ARTICLE INFO Article history: Received on: 23-04-2025 Accepted on: 19-05-2025 Published on: 31-05-2025 Key words : Adrenal Hormones, Majja Pradoshaja Vikara , Majja , Majjagni , Pituitary Hormones

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Gill, et al. : Majjagni and its Pathogenetic Role in Majja Pradoshaja Vikara 2025; 8(5):39-44 40 Although Majjagni is acknowledged as a vital component in Ayurvedic physiology, its explicit role in regulating Majja Dhatu and mediating the pathogenesis of Majja Pradoshaja Vikara remains insufficiently articulated in classical discourse. While existing Ayurvedic literature alludes to its influence through descriptive symptomatology and inferred functions, a systematic exposition of its physiological mechanisms, pathological deviations, and diagnostic markers is notably lacking, warranting focused analytical inquiry within the Ayurvedic framework 1.2. Aim This review aims to critically explore the regulatory role of Majjagni in maintaining the physiological equilibrium of Majja Dhatu and its pathological alterations, with particular emphasis on its role in the etiology and progression of Majja Pradoshaja Vikara 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS 2.1. Data Sources A comprehensive review was conducted through a systematic examination of primary Ayurvedic compendia, including the Charaka Samhita , Sushruta Samhita , and Ashtanga Hridaya , along with authoritative commentaries, standard reference texts, and peer-reviewed journals in the domain of Ayurveda 3. LITERATURE REVIEW 3.1. Majjagni and Majja Dhatu Metabolism in Ayurvedic Perspective In classical Ayurvedic physiology, Majjagni is conceptualized as the metabolic fire specific to Majja Dhatu , embodying the Agneya quality inherent to Pitta Dosha . It governs the biotransformation, nourishment, and maintenance of the functional integrity of Majja Dhatu . Each Dhatvagni operates exclusively within its anatomical and functional territory, which is termed as Dhatuvaha Srotas . Accordingly, Majjagni exerts its action within the Majjavaha Srotas , the physiological channels that mediate the transport, assimilation, and metabolism of Majja Dhatu The sequential transformation of nutrients into Majja Dhatu is described through a hierarchical multistage process beginning with the digestion of ingested food and culminating in tissue-specific assimilation. Nutrient substrates, particularly the Sneha Rasa (lipidrich essence) derived from Ahara Rasa and the precursor fractions from the preceding Asthi Dhatu , undergo progressive refinement under the influence of Majjagni . Majjagni acts at the final stage of this metabolic cascade, orchestrating the final biotransformation of these substrates into fully mature Majja Dhatu This process unfolds sequentially through distinct stages of Agni - mediated transformation. Following the completion of Jatharagni Paka (primary digestion in the gastrointestinal tract), the partially digested nutrients are subjected to Bhutagni Paka [8] In this phase, the Vijatiya (non-self) raw nutrient substances are metabolized into Sajatiya (organism-specific) precursors, rendering them compatible for incorporation into the host’s tissues [9] These precursors are then further acted upon by respective Dhatvagni during the phase known as Dhatu Paka In Ayurvedic terms, Dhatu Paka signifies the replenishment, maintenance, and revitalization of tissues within their respective Srotas . Each Dhatu possesses its own independent metabolic channel, which serves as the principal locus of its transformation. These Srotas are anatomically structured with two ends – one of which is anchored in the gastrointestinal mucosa, allowing for the selective delivery of Ahara Rasa to the tissue level via systemic circulation and targeted Srotas entry. At this site resides the in-situ Dhatvagni , which governs the bioconversion of Ahara Rasa into tissue-specific elements, thereby sustaining the dynamic integrity of each Dhatu This hierarchical transformation illustrating the sequential interplay of metabolic processes governed by distinct forms of Agni , ultimately culminating in the formation and nourishment of Majja Dhatu , is schematically represented in Figure 1 [10] 3.2. Outcomes of Majjagni Paka During Majjagni Paka , nutrients are subjected to two types of Paka – Prasada Paka and Kitta Paka [11] Further, in Prasada Paka, three-fold bioconversion takes place. The finished products of Majjagni Paka are illustrated in Table 1 4. DISCUSSION 4.1. Role of Majjagni in Optimal Health Classical Ayurvedic texts underscore the pivotal role of Majjagni in maintaining the functional integrity of Majja Dhatu , which encompasses bone marrow and neural elements. An optimally functioning Majjagni ensures the adequate formation, nourishment, and maintenance of Majja Dhatu , thereby supporting skeletal integrity, immunological resilience, and neurological stability. When in a state of balance, Majjagni facilitates the efficient transformation of nutritional substrates, endowing Majja Dhatu with the ability to perform its physiological functions, namely Bala (physical strength and endurance), Sneha (unctuousness and lubrication), and Asthi Purana (filling and supporting the bone cavity) [12] According to Charaka Samhita , individuals with well-nourished Majja Dhatu exhibit soft organs, unctuous complexion, resonant voice, and prominent, well-formed joints that signify the plenitude and vitality of marrow within the skeletal framework [13] Sushruta further affirms that nourished Majja is instrumental in imparting strength while contributing to cognitive and sensory stability. In contemporary physiological terms, such descriptions align with optimal bone marrow function, characterized by adequate hematopoiesis and healthy immune response. The Ayurvedic association of Majja with nerve tissue implies a functional correlation with myelin production, neurotransmitter regulation, and neural conductivity, thus reinforcing the view that balanced Majjagni underpins both physical vitality and neurological coherence 4.2. Aberrations of Majjagni: Majja Vriddhi, Majja Kshaya, and Majja Pradoshaja Vikara Conversely, aberrant Majjagni activity is implicated in a spectrum of pathologies collectively termed Majja Pradoshaja Vikara , manifesting either as Majja Dhatu Vriddhi or Kshaya , each associated with distinct clinical sequelae [14] Hypoactive Majjagni may lead to the pathological accumulation of unctuous Majja , manifesting as corporeal heaviness, joint edema, and lethargy, while its hyperactivity causes excessive depletion, leading to porosity of bones, neuro-muscular debility (e.g., dizziness and tremors), and compromised immunity. These descriptions illustrate Ayurveda’s nuanced understanding of marrow metabolism, aligning with contemporary insights into metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders.

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Gill, et al. : Majjagni and its Pathogenetic Role in Majja Pradoshaja Vikara 2025; 8(5):39-44 41 Table 2 delineates the characteristic features associated with Majjagni Samata (balanced state), Majjagni Mandata (hyperactivity), and Majjagni Tikshnata (hyperactivity), as described in classical Ayurvedic literature [15] 4.3. Pathophysiology of Majjagni Vikara or Majja Pradoshaja Vikara The pathogenesis of Majja Pradoshaja Vikara is initiated by sustained exposure to causative factors that compromise primary digestion and systemic metabolic assimilation. This impairment leads to the accumulation of toxic intermediates and partially metabolized nutrient substrates, which disseminate through the circulation and are preferentially deposited within the Majjavaha Srotas . This localized accumulation disrupts the functional integrity of Majjagni , thereby triggering a pathological cascade that culminates in the clinical manifestation of Majja Pradoshaja Vikara. [16] The sequential stages of this pathophysiological process are delineated in the following Figure 2 4.4. Interpretive Insights on Neuro-endocrinal Regulation of Majjagni Interestingly, Ayurveda also attributes a regulatory influence of Vata Dosha on Majjagni . Owing to its anatomical association with the nervous system, Majja Dhatu is considered intimately linked with Vata . One classical text describes that certain Vayavya (kinetic) forces stimulate Majjagni , thereby ensuring optimal metabolic activity within Majja In a noteworthy interpretive extrapolation, these Vata -associated factors have been linked to the endocrine secretions of the pituitary and adrenal glands, along with Vitamin C. Hormonal mediators from the pituitary and adrenal glands are proposed to act as dynamic stimuli that facilitate the conversion of Medogata Sneha into functional Majja , whereas Vitamin C, known for its critical role in hematopoiesis, is believed to invigorate Majjagni , thereby enhancing marrow metabolism. Although these identifications stem from modern interpretive frameworks, they reflect a compelling conceptual alignment between Ayurvedic notions of Vata and the neuroendocrine regulation of tissue metabolism 5. CONCLUSION The present review reaffirms the pivotal role of Majjagni in governing the physiological and pathological states of Majja Dhatu , highlighting its influence on skeletal strength, immune function, and neurological coherence. Classical Ayurvedic descriptions of Majjagni dysfunction align remarkably with the contemporary understanding of bone marrow insufficiency, immune dysregulation, and neurodegenerative states. Despite these correlations, a major limitation remains the lack of explicit diagnostic parameters and standardized clinical markers within the Ayurvedic framework. Future investigations integrating classical insights with emerging methods in Ayurvedic diagnostics may contribute to a more precise and applicable understanding of Majjagni -mediated pathologies, with significant implications for both preventive and therapeutic strategies in Ayurvedic clinical practice 6. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Nil 7. AUTHORS’ CONTRIBUTIONS All the authors contributed equally to the design and execution of the article 8. FUNDING Nil 9. ETHICAL APPROVALS This study does not require ethical approval as it is a review study 10. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST Nil 11. DATA AVAILABILITY This is an original manuscript and all data are available for only review purposes from principal investigators 12. PUBLISHERS NOTE This journal remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published institutional affiliation REFERENCES 1. Malviya A, Shakya J, Pandey PK, Palsedkar R. Study of Agni in different metabolic disordersa review. World J Pharm Sci Res. 2023;2(2):1-10 2. Trikamji Y, editor. Charaka samhita of agnivesha, chikitsa sthana; Grahanidosha chikitsa adhyaya. (Chakrapani tika). Ch. 15., Ver. 38. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2015. p. 516 3. Patel V, Sasmal G, Kumar A. The concept of majja dhatu. World J Pharm Res. 2020;9(2):335-40. doi: 10.20959/wjpr 20202-16614 4. Trikamji Y, editor. Sushruta samhita of sushruta, sharira sthana; Garbhavyakarana sharira adhyaya. Ch. 4., Ver. 12-13. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2015. p. 356 5. Shivprasad Sharma, editor. Ashtanga samgraha of vriddha vagbhata, Sharira sthana; Angavibhaga adhyaya. Ch. 5., Ver. 33. Varanasi: Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office; 2012. p. 302-3 6. Trikamji Y, editor. Charaka samhita of agnivesha, chikitsa sthana; Grahanidosha chikitsa adhyaya. Ch. 15., Ver. 16. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2015. p. 514 7. Trikamji Y, editor. Sushruta samhita of sushruta, sutra sthana; Shonitavarnaniya adhyaya. Ch. 14., Ver. 10. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2015. p. 60 8. Trikamji Y, editor. Charaka samhita of agnivesha, chikitsa sthana; Grahanidosha chikitsa adhyaya. (Chakrapani tika). Ch. 15. Ver. 13. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2015. p. 513 9. Trikamji Y, editor. Charaka samhita of agnivesha, chikitsa sthana; Grahanidosha chikitsa adhyaya. (Chakrapani Tika). Ch. 15., Ver. 14. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2015. p. 514 10. Niranjandev ayurvedalankara. Prakruta agni vigyana. Prakruta dhatvagni vimarsha, majjagni adhayaya. Sec. 4. Lucknow: Ayurvedic Evam Tibbi Academy; 1974. p. 217 11. Trikamji Y, editor. Charaka samhita of agnivesha, chikitsa sthana; Grahanidosha chikitsa adhyaya. (Chakrapani Tika). Ch. 15., Ver. 15. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2015. p. 514 12. Trikamji Y, editor. Sushruta samhita of sushruta, sutra sthana; Dosha-dhatu-mala-kshayavriddhi viganiya adhyaya. Ch. 15., Ver. 5.

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Gill, et al. : Majjagni and its Pathogenetic Role in Majja Pradoshaja Vikara 2025; 8(5):39-44 42 Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2015. p. 67-8 13. Trikamji Y, editor. Charaka samhita of agnivesha, vimana sthana; Rogabhisagjitiya adhyaya. Ch. 8., Ver. 108. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2015. p. 278 14. Paradakara HS, Editor. Ashtanga hridaya of vagbhata, sutra sthana; Doshahiviganiya adhyaya. Ch. 11., Ver. 34. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2019. p. 188 15. Shastri H. Dehadhatvagni vigyanam. Appendix 1. Delhi: Motilal Banarasidas Publications; 1977. p. 198-9 How to cite this article: Gill GK, Yadav CR, Yadav S. Majjagni : A Classical Ayurvedic Appraisal of Marrow Metabolism and its Pathogenetic Role in Majja Pradoshaja Vikara . IRJAY. [online] 2025;8(5);39-44 Available from : https://irjay.com DOI link- https://doi.org/10.48165/IRJAY.2025.80507 16. Shastri H. Dehadhatvagni vigyanam. Ch. 11. Delhi: Motilal Banarasidas Publications; 1977. p. 100-2.

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Gill, et al. : Majjagni and its Pathogenetic Role in Majja Pradoshaja Vikara 2025; 8(5):39-44 43 Table 1: Finished products of Majjagni Paka Prasada Paka Kitta Paka Sthoola Bhaga Sukshma Bhaga • Formation of Asthayi Majja Dhatu • Formation of Kesha ( Upadhatu of Majja ) • Formation of Shukra Sadharmi Amsha (Precursor for Shukra Dhatu ) • Formation of Dhatu Mala , namely Tvak Sneha, Akshi Sneha and Vit Sneha Aharagata Sneha Transforms into Ahara Rasa Nourishes Apya component of Ahara Rasagata Sneha Apyagni Paka Makes it compatible for the body by transforming it into Deha Poshaka Sneha Deha Poshaka Sneha arrives at Medovaha Srotas Formation of Meda Dhatu Formation of Asthi Sadharmi Amsha Medogni Paka Asthyagni Paka Formation of Asthi Dhatu and Majja Sadharmi Amsha Sneha Amsha from Meda Dhatu Majja Sadharmi Amsha from Asthyagni Paka Reaches at Majjavaha Srotas Majjagni Paka Formation of Majja Dhatu Majjagni Paka: Dhatvagni Paka: Bhutagni Paka: Pachakagni Paka: Figure 1: Illustration of sequelae of Majjagni Paka

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Gill, et al. : Majjagni and its Pathogenetic Role in Majja Pradoshaja Vikara 2025; 8(5):39-44 44 Table 2: Features of Majjagni Samata, Majjagni Mandata and Majjagni Tikshnata Majjagni Samata Majjagni Mandata Majjagni Tikshnata 1 Asthisnigdhata 2 Snigdhangata 3 Bala 4 Shukra Pushti 5 Asthi Purana 6 Asthi Dardhaya 7 Uttama Raktadhatutvam 8. Nadiyantrabalam 1 Sarvanga Gauravam 2 Netra Gauravam 3 Netra Shuklata 4 Parva Sthoolata 5 Parvasu Sthoolamulagandani 6 Parvasu Vrana 7 Parvashotha 8 Parvagauravam 9 Nadi Shotha 10 Nadi Pradaha 11 Parva Shulam 12. Mastishkachaya 1 Nadi Shula 2 Parva Bheda 3 Asthi Nistoda 4 Asthi Shula 5 Sandhi Shula 6 Asthishunyata 7 Rakta Dhatu Kshaya 8. Alpashukrata 9. Mastishkapchaya 10 Asthi‑Majja Prapaka 11 Haridra Nakha 12 Haridra Netrata 13 Asthi‑Majja Vidhradhi 14 Shira Shula 15 Gambhira Asthi Pradaha 16 Bhrama 17. Daurbalaya 18. Nadi Kshaya Nidana Sevana (e.g., Ajirna, Atibhojana, Vishamashana ) Causes Rasasheshajirna Formation of Ghora Annavisha Dushta Anna Rasa circulates in the body Sthanasamshraya of Dushta Anna Rasa in Majjavaha Srotas Vitiation of Majjagni Manifestation of Majjagni Vikara or Majja Pradoshaja Vikara Figure 2: Schematic representation of pathogenesis of Majja Pradoshaja Vikara

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