Case study on Mustak (Cyperus rotundus) for obesity treatment.
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: A case study to evaluate the efficacy mustak (cyperus rotundus) in sthoulya (obesity)
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Majumder Madhumita
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Roga Nidan, G. B. Ayurvedic College, Rohtak, Haryana
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: A case study to evaluate the efficacy mustak (cyperus rotundus) in sthoulya (obesity)
Year: 2016
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Obesity, recognized globally as a significant metabolic disorder, has escalated into a widespread lifestyle issue, with the WHO estimating that one in six adults is affected. Defined by a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 25 kg/m² (overweight) and over 30 kg/m² (obesity), it poses serious health risks, contributing to various diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. Ayurvedic texts refer to obesity as "Sthoulya" or "Atisthoulya," detailing its etiology, pathology, and management strategies, which emphasize the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment to mitigate health complications.
The Role of Mustak in Treating Obesity
One vital Ayurvedic intervention for managing obesity is the use of "Mustak" (Cyperus rotundus), which is categorized within the "Lekhaneeya Mahakashaya," known for its effects in reducing excess body fat. Mustak is recognized for its bitter, pungent, and astringent properties that aid in the digestion of "Ama" (toxins) and facilitate the breakdown of excess "Medadhatu" (fat tissue). In a studied case, a patient was treated with 6 grams of Mustak twice daily for two months, revealing marked improvements in symptoms of fatigue, weakness, and excessive sweating, as well as a reduction in BMI and lipid levels.
Importance of Diet and Lifestyle
Ayurveda emphasizes a holistic approach that integrates medication with suitable dietary and lifestyle changes to effectively manage Sthoulya. It identifies specific foods and practices that aggravate or mitigate obesity, including the avoidance of heavy, sweet, and fatty foods, excessive daytime sleep, and lack of physical activity. The patient's diet was tailored to include light grains, legumes, and vegetables, while also encouraging regular physical exercise and proper sleep hygiene, reinforcing the necessity of a comprehensive treatment plan that combines herbal interventions with healthy lifestyle choices.
Conclusion
This case study highlights the efficacy of Mustak as a therapeutic agent in treating Sthoulya, demonstrating significant weight loss and improvements in related symptoms. The research supports the Ayurvedic approach of utilizing herbal remedies in conjunction with dietary and lifestyle modifications to address obesity. Further studies with larger sample sizes are encouraged to validate these findings and expand the understanding of Mustak's therapeutic potential in comprehensive obesity management. This research underscores the valuable role of traditional medicine in contemporary health challenges.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the primary focus of the case study?
The case study evaluates the efficacy of Mustak (Cyperus rotundus) in treating Sthoulya, or obesity, through a single case analysis involving a specific treatment regimen and its outcomes.
How was the treatment administered to the patient?
The patient received 6 grams of Mustakmulachurna twice daily with lukewarm water for two months, along with regular follow-ups to monitor the signs, symptoms, and BMI changes.
What were the results observed after the treatment?
Significant improvements were noted in fatigue, weakness, and excessive sweating, with a decrease in BMI from 30.85 kg/m2 to 29.29 kg/m2 and a positive change in lipid profile.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Case study on Mustak (Cyperus rotundus) for obesity treatment.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Dhatu:
In Ayurveda, Dhatu refers to the seven fundamental tissues of the body: Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra. These tissues are essential for maintaining physiological functions and overall health. The imbalance of Dhatus, such as excess Medadhatu, can lead to conditions like obesity or Sthoulya.
2) Disease:
Disease in the context of this study refers to any condition that affects the normal functioning of the body. Obesity, or Sthoulya, is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by excessive adipose tissue, leading to health risks. Proper diagnosis and treatment are vital to manage this disease.
3) Drug:
Drug refers to any substance utilized to cure or alleviate symptoms of diseases. In the study, Mustak (Cyperus rotundus) is the drug used to manage obesity. It plays a crucial role in treating conditions by targeting specific symptoms and physiological imbalances.
4) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, known as Mustak in Ayurveda, is the main drug used in the study to treat Sthoulya (obesity). It possesses properties like Katu, Tikta, Kashaya Rasa, and is considered effective for Ama Pachak, helping reduce excessive Medadhatu and thus alleviating obesity.
5) Medadhatu (Meda-dhatu):
[see source text or glossary: Meda-dhatu]
6) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes holistic healing. It involves diagnosing and treating diseases like Sthoulya (obesity) by addressing the root causes, such as imbalanced Rasas and Dhatus. Ayurveda offers a variety of remedies including herbs like Mustak.
7) Katu:
Katu is one of the Rasas (tastes) in Ayurveda, characterized by pungency. Medicines with Katu Rasa, such as Mustak, help in balancing Kapha and Vata doshas. Katu Rasa is essential for detoxifying Ama, which is a critical aspect in treating obesity.
8) Medas (Meda, Medash):
Meda refers to the body's fat tissue or adipose tissue in Ayurveda. Excessive Meda results in obesity or Sthoulya, characterized by excessive body weight and fat deposition. Treatments in Ayurveda aim to reduce excess Meda while promoting overall healthy tissue balance.
9) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweating is one of the symptoms observed in patients with Sthoulya (obesity). In the study, excessive sweating was noted as a symptom alleviated by the treatment with Mustak (Cyperus rotundus), indicating improvement in overall metabolic function and reduction in Medadhatu.
10) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with qualities like heaviness, coldness, and stability. Imbalance in Kapha dosha contributes to conditions like obesity. Treatments aim at reducing Kapha through specific herbs, dietary regulations, and lifestyle changes.
11) Mahakashaya (Mahakasaya, Maha-kashaya):
Mahakashaya refers to a group of Ayurvedic formulations classified by their therapeutic effects. Mustak is classified under Lekhaneeya Mahakashaya, which includes drugs known for scraping actions that reduce excess fat and other tissues, making it effective for treating obesity.
12) Samprapti:
Samprapti in Ayurveda refers to the pathogenesis or the process of disease formation. In the case of Sthoulya, it involves factors like Ama formation and blockage of Srotas (channels). Understanding the Samprapti is crucial for designing effective treatment plans.
13) Prameha:
Prameha refers to a group of metabolic disorders in Ayurveda, often correlating with diabetes. It is one of the potential complications of untreated Sthoulya (obesity), making timely intervention critical to prevent the onset of Prameha and other related disorders.
14) Dravya:
Dravya in Ayurveda refers to the material or substance used in treatments. Mustak (Cyperus rotundus) is the main Dravya used in this study to treat Sthoulya (obesity). Understanding the properties of different Dravyas is essential for effective disease management.
15) Tikta:
Tikta is one of the six primary tastes (Rasas) in Ayurveda, characterized by bitterness. Herbs with Tikta Rasa, including Mustak, help in balancing Kapha and Pitta doshas. Tikta Rasa is instrumental in detoxifying and reducing excess fat, aiding in the treatment of obesity.
16) Sanga (Samga, Shanga, Shamga):
Sanga refers to the obstruction or blockage of channels (Srotas) in Ayurveda. In obesity (Sthoulya), Ama causes Sanga in the body's channels, preventing the proper formation of other Dhatus beyond Meda. Treatment aims to clear these blockages for better health.
17) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa in Ayurveda refers to the taste of a substance, which impacts its therapeutic effects. Mustak (Cyperus rotundus) has Katu, Tikta, and Kashaya Rasa, making it effective in treating obesity by balancing doshas and aiding in the digestion of Ama.
18) Food:
[see source text or glossary: Food]
19) Mamsadhatu (Mamsha-dhatu):
Mamsadhatu is one of the seven fundamental tissues (Dhatus) in Ayurveda, representing muscle tissue. In the context of Sthoulya (obesity), there is often an excessive accumulation of Meda (fat) at the expense of Mamsadhatu, highlighting the need for balanced treatment.
20) Samhita:
Samhita refers to classical Ayurvedic texts that compile various medical knowledge and treatments. The understanding and treatment of Sthoulya (obesity) through Mustak (Cyperus rotundus) are based on guidelines from Samhitas like Charak Samhita and Sarangadhar Samhita.
21) Apathya:
Apathya refers to foods and activities that should be avoided to prevent and manage diseases like Sthoulya (obesity). It includes foods that increase Kapha and Meda, and activities that promote sedentary behavior, which worsen the condition.
22) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya is one of the six Rasas (tastes) in Ayurveda, characterized by astringency. Mustak has Kashaya Rasa, which aids in the reduction of excess fat and fluids in the body. Kashaya taste helps in detoxifying and balancing doshas in obesity treatment.
23) Shakti (Sakti):
[see source text or glossary: Shakti]
24) Vihara:
Vihara refers to lifestyle practices and physical activities in Ayurveda. Proper Vihara is essential in managing Sthoulya (obesity) by promoting physical exercise and avoiding sedentary behaviors, which contribute to excess fat accumulation and related health issues.
25) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya in Ayurveda means depletion or reduction. In the treatment of Sthoulya (obesity), the goal is the Kshaya of excess Medadhatu (fat tissue) while ensuring that other Dhatus are nourished and healthy, restoring balance in the body.
26) Pathya:
Pathya refers to the dietary recommendations and activities beneficial for health. In managing Sthoulya (obesity), Pathya includes foods and practices that balance Kapha and reduce Medadhatu, aiding in weight management and overall well-being.
27) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas are the channels in the body responsible for the flow of bodily substances. In Sthoulya (obesity), Ama obstructs these Srotas, causing improper nourishment of Dhatus. Ayurvedic treatments aim to clear these blockages for better physiological function.
28) Ahara:
Ahara means food or diet in Ayurveda. Proper Ahara is crucial in managing Sthoulya (obesity) by avoiding Kapha-increasing foods and including those that aid in reducing Medadhatu and promoting overall health. A balanced diet supports the efficacy of treatments like Mustak.
29) Pulse:
[see source text or glossary: Pulse]
30) Death:
Death is the ultimate consequence of untreated severe obesity (Sthoulya). Chronic conditions like Prameha, Vataroga, and others that develop from obesity can lead to a gradual loss of immunity and vitality, underscoring the need for early and effective treatment.
31) Roga:
Roga means disease or illness in Ayurveda. Sthoulya is a type of Roga characterized by excessive accumulation of Medadhatu (fat). Proper diagnosis, dietary practices, lifestyle changes, and appropriate use of Ayurvedic drugs like Mustak are necessary for managing Roga.
32) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosa in Ayurveda refers to the three fundamental bio-energetic principles (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that govern bodily functions. Imbalance of these Doshas leads to diseases. In Sthoulya (obesity), an imbalance primarily in Kapha dosha is seen, requiring specific treatments to restore balance.
33) Vata:
Vata is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with movement and air elements. While Sthoulya (obesity) is mainly linked with Kapha imbalances, Vata can also be affected. Balancing all three Doshas is essential for effective obesity management.
34) Sara (Shara):
Sara in Ayurveda refers to the essence of Dhatus, indicating the quality and strength of tissues. In obesity (Sthoulya), Meda Sara and general tissue quality can be compromised, requiring therapeutic interventions to improve overall health and tissue quality.
35) Diet:
[see source text or glossary: Diet]
36) Dhatukshaya (Dhatuksaya, Dhatu-kshaya):
Dhatu-kshaya refers to the depletion of body tissues (Dhatus). In the context of obesity (Sthoulya), while there is an excess of Medadhatu, there might be Kshaya of other Dhatus, highlighting the need for balanced therapeutic strategies to restore tissue health.
37) Aharashakti (Aharasakti, Ahara-shakti):
[see source text or glossary: Ahara-shakti]
38) Shukadhanya (Sukadhanya, Shuka-dhanya, Suka-dhanya):
[see source text or glossary: Shukadhanya]
39) Shamidhanya (Samidhanya, Shami-dhanya):
[see source text or glossary: Shamidhanya]
40) Agnidushti (Agnidusti, Agni-dushti):
Agni-dusti refers to the impairment of Agni, the body's digestive and metabolic fire. In Sthoulya (obesity), digestive Agni gets impaired, leading to Ama and obstruction of Srotas. Restoring Agni is crucial for effective management of obesity.
41) Shukradhatu (Sukradhatu, Shukra-dhatu):
Sukradhatu represents the reproductive tissues in Ayurveda. Obstruction in channels leading to Sukradhatu due to excess Medadhatu in Sthoulya can affect reproductive health, which further emphasizes the importance of balanced nutrient and tissue management.
42) Phalavarga (Phala-varga):
[see source text or glossary: Phalavarga]
43) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosa is the bio-energetic principle in Ayurveda associated with structure and fluid balance. An excess Kapha-dosa leads to obesity (Sthoulya). Treatments aim at reducing Kapha through specific herbs, dietary changes, and lifestyle practices.
44) Discussion:
The discussion section of the study reviews the efficacy of Mustak (Cyperus rotundus) in managing Sthoulya (obesity). It elaborates on the therapeutic properties of Mustak, such as its Lekhaneeya and Ama Pachak abilities and assesses the outcomes observed during treatment.
45) Kulattha:
Kulattha is a type of pulse recommended as Pathya (beneficial diet) in the management of Sthoulya (obesity). It helps in reducing Kapha dosha and Medadhatu. Including such pulses in the diet supports therapeutic interventions aimed at weight management.
46) Vataroga (Vata-roga):
Vataroga refers to diseases caused by an imbalance of Vata dosha. Untreated obesity (Sthoulya) can lead to such conditions due to the degradation of Dhatus and the obstruction of Srotas, emphasizing the significance of early intervention and proper management.
47) Prakriti (Prakrti):
Prakriti refers to an individual's natural constitution in Ayurveda, governed by the balance of Doshas. In the case study, the patient's Prakriti was Kapha-Vata, which influences the approach to treating Sthoulya (obesity) by targeting these specific doshas.
48) Madhura:
Madhura is one of the six tastes (Rasas) in Ayurveda, characterized by sweetness. Excess consumption of Madhura foods can aggravate Kapha dosha and lead to the formation of Medadhatu, contributing to the development of obesity (Sthoulya).
49) Purusha (Purusa):
[see source text or glossary: Purusha]
50) Avarana:
Avarana in Ayurveda means covering or obstruction. In the context of obesity (Sthoulya), Ama causes Avarana of the channels (Srotas), obstructing the proper flow and nourishment of Dhatus. Clearing Avarana is essential for effective treatment.
51) Snigdha:
Snigdha refers to the oily and unctuous quality in Ayurveda. Foods and substances with Snigdha qualities can aggravate Kapha dosha and lead to adipose tissue (Medadhatu) accumulation, contributing to obesity (Sthoulya).
52) Vyavaya:
[see source text or glossary: Vyavaya]
53) Brahman:
[see source text or glossary: Brahman]
54) Amadosha (Amadosa, Ama-dosha):
Amadosa refers to the toxic byproduct resulting from improper digestion in Ayurveda. Ama plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Sthoulya (obesity) by causing blockages (Srotas) and leading to imbalance in Dhatus. Detoxification is key in treatment.
55) Kashya (Kasya):
[see source text or glossary: Kashya]
56) Dushya (Dusya):
Dushya refers to the bodily elements that become vitiated in disease. In Sthoulya (obesity), Meda and Mamsadhatu are the primary Dushyas. Treatments like Mustak aim at the Lekhana (scraping) of these Dushyas, reducing excess fat and improving health.
57) Satmya:
Satmya refers to the compatibility of diet and lifestyle choices with an individual's constitution or Prakriti. The study considers Satmya for the patient to ensure that the prescribed treatments, including Mustak, are effective and sustainable.
58) Vipaka:
Vipaka is the post-digestive effect of food and drugs in Ayurveda. Mustak has Katu Vipaka, which aids in the digestion of Ama and balancing Kapha dosa, making it effective in treating Sthoulya (obesity) by reducing Medadhatu.
59) Arishta (Arista):
[see source text or glossary: Arista]
60) Pidaka:
Pidaka refers to eruptive lesions or pustules, which can be a complication of conditions like Prameha resulting from untreated Sthoulya (obesity). Management of obesity helps in preventing such complications and maintaining overall skin health.
61) Balaji:
[see source text or glossary: Balaji]
62) Family:
[see source text or glossary: Family]
63) Edema (Oedema):
Oedema is the swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues. While not directly mentioned in the case study, oedema can be a symptom associated with obesity (Sthoulya) due to impaired metabolism and excess kapha dosha.
64) Thirst:
Excessive thirst or Atipipasha is one of the symptoms observed in obesity (Sthoulya). Treatment with Mustak (Cyperus rotundus) showed improvement in thirst levels, indicating better fluid metabolism and overall reduction of Kapha dosha.
65) Madhu:
[see source text or glossary: Madhu]
66) Sutra:
[see source text or glossary: Sutra]
67) Karma (Karman):
Karma refers to action or treatment in Ayurveda. Therapeutic actions (Ouṣadh Karma) for Sthoulya (obesity) include the use of herbs like Mustak, lifestyle modifications, and dietary regulations to rebalance doshas and reduce Medadhatu.
68) Dadhi:
[see source text or glossary: Dadhi]
69) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi is one of the seven fundamental Dhatus in Ayurveda, representing bone tissue. In Sthoulya (obesity), there is proper formation up to the Medadhatu but less nutrition for Dhatus like Asthi, leading to imbalances that necessitate therapeutic intervention.
70) Ikshu (Iksu):
[see source text or glossary: Ikshu]
71) Mamsa (Mamsha):
[see source text or glossary: Mamsa]
72) Mudga:
[see source text or glossary: Mudga]
73) Majja:
Majja is one of the seven Dhatus, representing marrow or the nervous system. In the context of Sthoulya, impairment of channels (Srotas) leading to Majjadatu can occur, emphasizing the need for comprehensive treatment to restore proper Dhatu balance.
74) Stana:
[see source text or glossary: Stana]
75) Grahin (Grahi):
Grahi refers to the property of absorbing and retaining nutrients, associated with certain Ayurvedic herbs. Mustak possesses Grahi properties, which help in proper digestion and assimilation of nutrients, aiding in the management of Sthoulya (obesity).
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 91]
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