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.