Understanding Grahani as an Anatomical Structure: A Correlative Study

The word Grahani incepted from Grahana which means to hold or to retain something. According to Shabdakalpadruma, Grahani is Agnyadhishtana Naadi referring it to a tubular structure. In Samhitas we get references for Grahani as Agni Adhishtana, which is the site for Agni. Grahani also does the Karma of Annagrahana to which Chakrapani comments Grahana means Dharana. Charaka Samhita explains Grahani is situated above Nabhi and it holds Apakwa Anna and eliminates the Pakwa Anna. Susruta and Vagbhata additionally explain Grahani as synonymous to Pittadhara Kala and it extends from Amashaya to Pakwashaya. So, Grahani includes all those anatomical structures wherein Annagrahana, its Shoshana due to Pitta Tejas, Pachana and Vimunchana of Pakwa Anna takes place. The structural and functional involvement of gastro intestinal region in the digestion, absorption, assimilation and excretion of ingested food materials is well understood. This correlative study is an effort to understand the possible anatomical entities and applied anatomy of Grahani as explained by our Acharyas.