Abstract

Background: In Ayurveda, Ojas (vital essence) is described as the final essence formed after proper nourishment of the seven body tissues known as Saptadhatus. Ojas is responsible for maintaining strength, immunity (Vyadhikshamatva), and overall balance in the body. When the quality of Ojas becomes disturbed, a condition known as Ojodushti (qualitative vitiation of Ojas), the body gradually loses its stability and resistance, leading to progressive weakness and degeneration. A similar pattern is seen in systemic amyloidosis, a disorder in which abnormal proteins accumulate in different organs and slowly affect their function. Both conditions reflect a widespread disturbance rather than a localised disease process. Objective: The present work has the intended to establish a conceptual correlation between Ojodushti as described in classical Ayurveda texts and systemic amyloidosis from a modern biomedical perspective, by comparing their aetiology, pathogenesis, functional impact, and clinical presentation.Methods: Classical Ayurveda texts were studied to understand the concepts of Ojas, Ojodushti (vitiation of Ojas), Agni (metabolism), Ama (metabolic toxins), and Dhatu Dushti (tissue vitiation). These concepts were then compared with modern medical literature on amyloidosis, focusing on protein misfolding, chronic inflammation, immune changes, and organ involvement.Results: Ojodushti presents with symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, heaviness in the body, changes in complexion, anxiety, and increased tendency to fall ill. These features show similarity with systemic amyloidosis, where patients commonly experience weight loss, reduced immunity, and gradual involvement of multiple organs. In Ayurveda, impaired Agni, formation of Ama, obstruction of channels (Srotorodha), and Dhatu Dushti together contribute to disease progression. These processes can be conceptually related to protein misfolding, deposition, and organ damage described in amyloidosis. Conclusion: Ojodushti can be understood as an Ayurveda explanation for chronic conditions involving gradual tissue damage and abnormal accumulation of misfolded proteins within the body. The integrative approach of correlating Ayurveda assessment parameters with measurable clinical indicators including inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), serum amyloid levels, organ function tests, and imaging findings may help in developing objective criteria to support evaluation and monitoring of disease progression. Integrating Ayurveda principles of metabolic correction, Ama management, and Ojas preservation with modern diagnostics may provide a holistic framework for understanding and managing systemic amyloidosis.

Key words: Ama, Amyloidosis, Dhatu Dushti, Immunity, Ojas, Rasayana, Protein Misfolding Disorders