Obesity (Excess weight)

Obesity, called sthūlatā or medoroga in Ayurveda, arises from aggravated kapha and weak agni causing excess meda dhātu (fat tissue). This leads to heaviness, sluggishness, and reduced vitality. Suśruta Saṃhitā (Sūtrasthāna 15.41) explains obesity as medodushti. A 2015 review showed Ayurveda therapies aid weight loss and metabolic balance safely.

Common Causes of Obesity (Excess weight)

Excess intake of heavy, oily, and sweet foods.
Sedentary lifestyle with little physical activity.
Genetic tendency towards fat accumulation.
Low agni causing poor metabolism.
Stress and emotional overeating.

Symptoms of Obesity (Excess weight)

Excess body fat, especially around abdomen.
Heaviness and reduced physical stamina.
Shortness of breath with mild exertion.
Frequent lethargy and low motivation.
Joint pain and risk of diabetes or hypertension.

Ayurveda’s Approach to Healing Obesity (Excess weight)

Kapha-reducing diet with light, bitter, and spicy foods.
Deepana-pācana herbs like trikatu to improve agni.
Regular exercise, yoga, and dynamic prāṇāyāma.
Pañcakarma therapies like udvartana and virecana for cleansing.
Long-term balance with rasāyana herbs like gudūcī and aśvagandhā.