Manda Agni
Sluggish digestive fire affected by the heavy, slow, cool qualities of kapha; one of the three categories of disturbed agni causing slow metabolism.
Manda Agni: Dull Hypometabolism
Manda agni is a slow, dull digestive fire resulting from excess kapha dosha. The heavy, slow, and cool water and earth elements of kapha inhibit the light, sharp, and hot qualities of agni. A person with manda agni can fast on only water for a few days and still gain weight, unable to properly digest even a normal diet. Even without eating, there is heaviness in the stomach, cold, congestion, and cough.
Additional symptoms include over-salivation, loss of appetite, allergies, nausea, and mucoid vomiting. Some people may develop edema, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. There is lethargy, excessive sleep, cold clammy skin, and generalized weakness of the body. Mentally, manda agni can produce attachment, greed, and possessiveness, with strong cravings for hot, sharp, dry, and spicy food. Almost all kapha ailments are rooted in manda agni.
Source: Textbook of Ayurveda: Fundamental Principles, Chapter Four: Agni, The Digestive Fire
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.