Gut–Brain Axis and Amlapitta (Hyperacidity): A Review of Jatharagni Modulation and Microbial Homeostasis via Ayurvedic Detoxification

Abstract

Functional dyspepsia is a highly prevalent disorder of gut–brain interaction under the Rome IV classification, characterized by post-prandial fullness, early satiety, epigastric pain, and burning. Traditional treatments often rely on acid-suppressive therapies that can induce long-term dysbiosis. In contrast, Ayurveda describes this clinical spectrum as Amlapitta, a pathology of the Annavaha Srotas (gastrointestinal tract) driven by Jatharagnimandya (depressed central metabolic fire) and the qualitative vitiation of Pachaka Pitta (specifically, increases in Dravatva and Amlatva). This review explores the structural and functional convergence between the classical Ayurvedic principle of Pittadhara Kala Sahayo Majjadhara Kala and the modern gut–brain–microbiome (GBM) axis. We evaluate how traditional Ayurvedic biopurification (Shodhana), specifically therapeutic emesis (Vamana) and purgation (Virechana), acts as a biological “reset” of the GBM axis. By analyzing classical Samhita literature, clinical symptomatology, and herbo-mineral pharmacology (Sutshekhar Rasa, Kamadudha Rasa, Avipattikar Churna, and Amlapitta Mishran Suspension), we present an evidence-based, integrative therapeutic paradigm. Furthermore, we outline how the graduated post-purification dietary protocol (Samsarjana Krama) functions as a structured prebiotic reconstruction algorithm that stabilizes short-chain fatty acid-producing bacterial cohorts, repairs mucosal barrier tight junctions, and restores autonomic gut–brain communication.