Purpose: Obesity is characterised by an excessive accumulation of body fat, typically 20% or more above an individual's ideal body weight. In Ayurveda, this condition is referred to as Medo Roga or Sthaulya. The root cause of obesity lies in the overconsumption of fatty and fried foods, combined with a sedentary lifestyle, which results in the deposition of excess fat within the body's channels (Srotas). Ayurvedic management involves a combination of internal medicines and detoxification therapies (Shodhana), which are tailored based on the specific imbalance of Doshas. Procedures such as Vamana (therapeutic emesis), Virechana (purgation), Basti (medicated enema), and Udvartana (herbal powder massage) are employed effectively to address obesity. Alongside therapies, proper dietary management (Pathya-Apathya) and lifestyle modifications play a critical role in achieving sustainable results. Obesity (Sthaulya) serves as a precursor to several health issues, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and psychological conditions such as stress. It significantly contributes to higher rate Despite its prevalence, obesity remains one of the most overlooked public health challenges globally.
Despite its prevalence, obesity Interestingly, its prevalence varies Interestingly, its prevalence varies based on socio-economic factors—being more common among the less educated in affluent nations, whereas in developing countries, dictionaries, Sthaulyais classified under Santa In Ayurvedic texts, Sthaulya is classified under Santarpanajanya Vikara (diseases caused by over-nourishment) and is associated with a The Ayurvedic approach focuses not only on eliminating the root causes of obesity but also on restoring the balance of the doshas to ensure overall health and well-being.
KEY WORDS:- Obesity, Sthaulya, Lifestyle disorder, Shodhan, Shaman