In Ayurveda, the concept of ama is visualized as a kind of toxic “sludge” that comes from undigested food, environmental pollutants, and unassimilated emotions, as well as from normal bodily processes such as cell metabolism.
Ama accumulates in the body’s tissues and channels when improper dietary and lifestyle practices weaken our agni (digestive fire). The role of agni extends beyond converting food into energy to all the metabolic functions that process and remove waste products and cellular debris from our body. In short, excess ama disrupts the body’s natural cleansing process. When the resulting buildup of ama clogs our organ systems and internal pathways, it can give rise to a host of health problems.
The following list details conditions that signal the presence of unhealthy levels of ama in the body:
Unclear thinking
Grogginess
Dull eyes
Aches and pains
Poor circulation
Joint pain and inflammation
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Skin blemishes
Fever
Fatigue; low energy
Weakness
Constipation
Diarrhea
Sinking stools and/or mucus in stool
Sticky stools
Indigestion; fatigue after eating
Bloating; gas
Congestion of lungs, throat, and nasal passages
Bad breath
Decreased output of urine and sweat
Turbid urine
Lack of appetite or impaired sense of taste
Sticky or sweet taste in the mouth.
Pulse that registers as deep, dull, and irregular
Coated tongue/swollen body
High triglycerides
Atherosclerosis
Late-onset diabetes
High blood sugar levels
Depression and other mood disorders
Rheumatoid arthritis
Helio pylori and other bacterial infections
Leukocytosis (excess of white blood cells
Leukocytopenia (low white blood count)
Excess antibodies in the bloodstream
Candida in the gut and uterus
Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels (sign of impaired kidney function)
Gout
Excess platelet count
High IgE levels from allergic reactions
Excess red blood cells
Gallstones from excess bile
Kidney stones from undigested calcium and oxalates
Elevated liver enzymes
High serum aspartate aminotransferase levels (sign of possible liver damage)
Increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma)
Tumors
These symptoms may call for panchakarma therapy to substantially reduce the amount of ama in the body. Ayurvedic teachings recommend building regularly scheduled sessions of panchakarma therapy into your holistic wellness routine.
Disclaimer
The sole purpose of these articles is to provide information about the tradition of Ayurveda. This information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure or prevention of any disease.