Conceptual study of Margag dhatu with special reference to vitamin D, vitamin B12, and serum calcium AS Margag dhatu of Asthi

Abstract

In Ayurvedic physiology, Agni holds central importance in the transformation of ingested food into nourishing components for the body. This transformation process involves converting heterogeneous substances (Vijatiya Dravyas) into homogeneous ones (Sajatiya Dravyas), aligning them with the body's structural and functional demands. There are thirteen types of Agni-Jatharagni is primarily responsible for digestion; Bhutagni processes elemental substances; and Dhatvagni governs the metabolism of bodily tissues. Among these, Asthidhatvagni plays a crucial role in bone tissue metabolism. In modern biomedical science, nutrients such as Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and Calcium are indispensable for bone health and development. This article aims to conceptually relate these nutrients with the Ayurvedic concept of Margag Asthi Dhatu, providing a bridge between classical Ayurvedic thought and contemporary biomedical understanding.