I am frequently asked about Ama and how does one make sure to avoid its build up in the body. In Ayurveda, “ama” refers to toxic substances that accumulate in the body due to improper digestion or the intake of unhealthy substances. The concept of ama is closely related to the principle of digestion in Ayurveda. According to this principle, proper digestion is essential for good health because it helps the body to break down and absorb nutrients from the food we eat. When the digestive process is impaired or incomplete, toxins or undigested substances can build up in the body, leading to the formation of ama.
As these toxic substances build up over a course of days/months/years they can disrupt the balance of the body’s doshas and lead to various health problems. There are a variety of factors that result in buildup of Ama, including a poor diet, insufficient digestive fire (agni), and a sedentary lifestyle. Early identification of Ama and continuous monitoring can be done by Tongue diagnosis, a coating on the tongue can be an indication of ama . Other signs of ama include bloating, gas, constipation, and a feeling of heaviness after eating.
To remove ama from the body, it is important to focus on improving digestion and eliminating unhealthy substances from the diet. This can be done through the use of Ayurvedic herbs and spices, such as cumin, coriander, and fennel, which help to stimulate the digestive fire and promote the elimination of toxins. It is also important to engage in regular physical activity, as this helps to improve circulation and facilitate the removal of toxins from the body. Lastly, incorporating a daily tongue scraping is a great way to monitor any buildup that may have not resonated as a full physical symptom; this early identification can allow you to do diet and lifestyle adjustments.
Overall, the concept of ama is an important one in Ayurveda, as it helps to highlight the importance of proper digestion and the role that it plays in maintaining good health. By addressing ama and supporting the body’s natural processes of detoxification, it is possible to improve overall health and well-being.
