The Gut-Vagina Axis in Ayurveda: An Integrative Review on Agni, Ama, and the Pathogenesis of Vaginal Dysbiosis
1Neha Yadav and 2Manjusha Karkare
1,2Department of Prasuti tantra and Stree roga, Parul Institute of Ayurved and Research, Parul University, Vadodara - 391760 (India) 1Phone no – 983423459 1Email id – nehayadav0109@gmail.com 2Phone no – 9422515717, 9023866260 2Email id – karkaremr@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Vaginal health is a critical determinant of a woman’s quality of life and reproductive success. While modern medicine identifies vaginal dysbiosis as a depletion of protective Lactobacillus species, this condition remains a significant public health challenge, with prevalence rates for abnormal discharge reaching up to 73%. This review bridges contemporary microbiome science with the Ayurvedic framework of Yonivyapada to propose a more sustainable management strategy. In Ayurveda, dysbiosis is understood as a localized manifestation of Agni (metabolic fire) imbalance and Ama (toxic accumulation), which creates a pathological soil for infection. While standard treatments rely on targeted antimicrobials, the Ayurvedic approach emphasizes Sthanika Chikitsa (local therapies) to restore the acidic Agneya environment and mucosal integrity. By integrating metabolic stability with modern diagnostic tools like Nugent scoring, practitioners can address the root causes of recurrence and antimicrobial resistance. Ultimately, this integrative model offers a holistic alternative for restoring the vaginal ecosystem across all life stages.