Exploring obesity through ayurveda w.s.r to stholya

a literary review

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Exploring obesity through ayurveda w.s.r to stholya
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a literary review

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Author:

Dr. Sakshi


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Exploring obesity through ayurveda w.s.r to stholya

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202217-26529

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Obesity is defined as having an excessive amount of body fat, which develops when a person's caloric intake exceeds their energy expenditure over time. It is distinct from being overweight, as that term encompasses weight from muscle, bone, and body water, in addition to fat. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is commonly used to assess weight status, categorizing individuals into various levels such as underweight, normal, overweight, and different classes of obesity. Obesity is a significant public health concern, as it increases the risk of numerous chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.

Ayurvedic Perspective on Obesity

In Ayurveda, obesity is referred to as "Stholyata" or "Atistholyata." Foundational texts like "Charak Samhita" discuss this condition and identify it as a result of over-nourishment (santarpanajanya vyadhis) characterized by excessive intake of rich and heavy foods, coupled with a sedentary lifestyle. Acharya Charaka emphasized the importance of digestive capability or "Agnimandya," which plays a crucial role in the development of obesity. According to Ayurvedic teachings, efficient digestion and metabolism of food (dhatvagni) are essential to prevent the morbid accumulation of "Meda dhatu" (fat tissue), leading to overweight and associated health issues.

Causes and Complications of Obesity

Obesity arises from multiple factors, both chronic and lifestyle-related. Modern science attributes obesity to a combination of genetic predispositions, dietary habits (such as overeating high-calorie foods), and physical inactivity. Psychological influences can also play a role, where emotional stress or boredom leads to excessive eating. The complications of obesity are wide-ranging, including increased risks for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Ayurvedic texts outline various internal and external causes of obesity, including excessive daytime sleep, a lack of physical exercise, and the consumption of food that aggravates the Kapha dosha.

Ayurvedic Treatment Approaches

In Ayurveda, management of obesity involves lifestyle changes and dietary interventions aimed at restoring balance. Treatment modalities include "Shamana" (pacifying therapies) and "Sanshodhana" (purification therapies). Specific recommendations include a focus on "guru aahara" (heavy foods) that should be avoided, and "aptarpana aahara" (light, reducing foods) that promote weight reduction. A variety of herbal formulations, diet modifications, and physical activity are recommended to facilitate the elimination of excess fat and ensure proper metabolic function. Detoxifying therapies such as Vamana (emesis) and Virechana (purging) help in clearing out toxins and restoring digestive function.

Conclusion

Obesity is a multifaceted health challenge exacerbated by modern lifestyles and dietary choices, contributing to significant health risks. Ayurveda offers a comprehensive insight into the causes and management strategies of obesity, emphasizing prevention through optimal digestion, balanced nutrition, and appropriate lifestyle choices. By following Ayurvedic principles that address both physical and metabolic aspects, individuals can effectively combat the growing epidemic of obesity and improve overall health. The integration of ancient knowledge with contemporary understanding can enhance approaches to weight management and health promotion.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is obesity and how is it measured?

Obesity is having excess body fat, measured using Body Mass Index (BMI), which is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. A BMI of 30 or higher indicates obesity.

What are the main causes of obesity?

The main causes include genetics, overeating, high-fat diets, physical inactivity, and certain medications. Psychological factors and social issues also contribute to weight gain.

What health risks are associated with obesity?

Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, osteoarthritis, and certain cancers, along with various metabolic and psychological complications.

How does Ayurveda approach the treatment of obesity?

Ayurveda suggests dietary and lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding heavy foods and increasing physical activity. Treatments include Shamana (nourishing) and Shodhana (cleansing) therapies to correct imbalances.

What lifestyle changes are recommended to prevent obesity?

Incorporating regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limiting processed foods, and maintaining a healthy sleep pattern can help prevent obesity.

What are some weight-loss medications and their side effects?

Common weight-loss medications include orlistat and phentermine. Side effects may include gastrointestinal issues like oily evacuation, flatulence, and in some cases, serious risks associated with surgical options.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Exploring obesity through ayurveda w.s.r to stholya”. 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) Food:
Food is essential for nourishment and energy. In Ayurveda, the type of food and its quality can influence the doshas (body energies). The balance of nutrients and the appropriate dietary choices are crucial for health, especially in managing conditions like obesity and maintaining optimal body function.

2) Dhatu:
Dhatus, the plural of dhatu, include the fundamental tissues that form the human body. Maintaining the health of each dhatu through proper diet and lifestyle is essential for sustaining life. Imbalances among the dhatus can lead to health issues, including metabolic disorders.

3) Disease:
Diseases, in Ayurvedic terms, result from imbalances in the body's doshas, dhatus, or srotas (channels). They encompass a wide range of health issues, including obesity, which is linked to lifestyle choices, improper diet, and internal imbalances. Understanding their causes helps develop effective treatment plans.

4) Sakshi (Saksi):
Sakshi, in the context of scientific literature, is likely a reference to the author, Dr. Sakshi. The contributions of individual researchers are invaluable in advancing knowledge, including traditional practices such as Ayurveda. Their studies contribute to the understanding and application of age-old wisdom in modern health contexts.

5) Medas (Meda, Medash):
Meda refers to the fat tissue in the body, a critical component of dhatu. It functions to provide energy, insulation, and cushioning. However, excess meda can lead to obesity, making its regulation important in Ayurveda for maintaining health balance and preventing diseases related to overweight.

6) Blood:
Blood is considered in Ayurveda as rakta, a vital dhatu responsible for circulatory functions. It nourishes the body and supports life processes. The quality and quantity of blood directly affect overall health, influencing vitality and the capability of the body to heal.

7) Diet:
Diet in Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of balanced nutrition tailored to individual constitutions (prakriti). Appropriate dietary practices can help prevent diseases like obesity and ensure that all dhatus receive the nutrients they need, thus maintaining physical and mental health.

8) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi is the vernacular language used in many Ayurvedic texts and discussions in India, bridging traditional knowledge with contemporary understanding. It facilitates the dissemination of Ayurvedic principles to a broader audience, enabling more people to engage with and benefit from this ancient system of medicine.

9) Drug:
Drugs in the Ayurvedic context refer primarily to natural herbal medicines that are utilized to treat various ailments. These formulations emphasize holistic healing and are based on properties of the ingredients as defined within the traditional Ayurvedic texts.

10) Sutrasthana (Sutra-sthana):
Sutra-sthana is a foundational text within Ayurvedic literature that focuses on the principles of health and disease management. These texts provide guidelines for effective treatment protocols and are essential for practitioners in understanding the fundamental theories of Ayurveda.

11) Vidyadhara (Vidya-adhara, Vidya-dhara):
Vidyadhara, in this context, likely refers to a revered figure in Ayurvedic literature who has contributed valuable commentary and explanations. Such scholars play a crucial role in preserving and interpreting ancient texts, ensuring that Ayurvedic knowledge is accurately conveyed through generations.

12) Dridhabala (Drdhabala):
Dridhabala is another significant author in Ayurveda, known for redacting the texts of Charaka. His contributions aid in clarifying and interpreting the original teachings, helping practitioners apply ancient Ayurvedic wisdom in the modern context effectively.

13) Agnivesha (Agnivesa, Agni-vesha):
Agnivesha was a prominent ancient scholar whose works, such as the Charaka Samhita, form the backbone of Ayurvedic medicine. His insights into health, disease, and therapeutic formulations continue to influence practicing physicians and scholars in the study of Ayurveda.

14) Sthana:
Sthana refers to the location or site of action or effect within the human body as described in Ayurvedic texts. Recognizing the significance of sthana aids practitioners in diagnosing and treating diseases based on localized imbalances.

15) Shukla (Sukla):
Shukla often refers to a name or title associated with knowledgeable individuals in Ayurveda. It can also symbolize purity and clarity, embodying the principles that Ayurvedic practices aim to achieve for health and wellness.

16) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is a common suffix denoting a learned or scholar status in Sanskrit. In the context of Ayurveda, it may refer to respected individuals contributing to the body of Ayurvedic knowledge, highlighting their role in reviewing and enhancing practices.

17) Sutra:
Sutra signifies aphorisms or concise statements encapsulating key principles in Ayurveda. These verses serve as guiding principles for practitioners, dictating treatment approaches, dietary regulations, and lifestyle practices critical for maintaining health and wellness.

18) Priya:
Priya, meaning dear or beloved, may refer to significant scholars in the Ayurvedic tradition, illuminating their contributions to understanding health practices. The reverence for such individuals reflects their influence on the continuity and evolution of Ayurvedic knowledge.

19) Vrata:
Vrata typically refers to vows or commitments observed for discipline in Ayurveda. These commitments play a crucial role in patient adherence to therapeutic practices, underlining the importance of mental and emotional commitment in achieving successful health outcomes.

20) Sugar:
Sugar is a simple carbohydrate that, when consumed excessively, can contribute to obesity and various metabolic disorders. In Ayurveda, it’s important to regulate sugar intake through balanced dietary practices in order to maintain health and support proper dhatu functioning.

21) Ravi (Ravin):
Ravi, often a name, can embody the sun's energy, representing health and vitality in Ayurvedic texts. As a metaphor, it may also reflect the essential role of sunlight and warm vitality in maintaining overall health and promoting life.

22) Medadhatu (Meda-dhatu):
Medadhatu, or fat tissue, has a dual role in Ayurveda as a source of energy and a potential contributor to obesity. Its management through dietary choices and lifestyle changes is vital for overall health.

23) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine focusing on holistic health. It emphasizes balance among body, mind, and spirit through natural treatments, diet, and lifestyle changes, making it effective in addressing chronic diseases like obesity and promoting longevity.

24) Purusha (Purusa):
Purusha translates to 'person' or 'individual' in Ayurveda, encompassing the whole body-mind entity. Understanding purusha helps practitioners tailor treatments and dietary regimens according to the specific constitution and needs of each individual.

25) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas are the channels in the body through which nutrients, energies, and waste materials flow. Understanding and maintaining srotas is crucial for ensuring the adequate nourishment of dhatus and the overall health of the body in Ayurvedic practice.

26) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, embodying stability, structure, and moisture. An imbalance in kapha can lead to conditions like obesity, necessitating specific dietary and lifestyle interventions to restore harmony and vitality.

27) Life:
Life in Ayurveda is viewed as a dynamic balance of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The quality of life is influenced by diet, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors that align with Ayurvedic principles to promote health and longevity.

28) Activity:
Activity encompasses the physical and mental engagement necessary for promoting health in Ayurveda. Adequate activity levels encourage balance among doshas and foster overall wellness, preventing conditions like obesity.

29) Channel:
Channel, synonymous with srotas, refers to the pathways for bodily functions. Recognizing disturbances in these channels can aid practitioners in identifying health issues and developing appropriate treatment protocols.

30) Madhava:
Madhava refers to an influential figure in Ayurvedic literature known for detailed understanding of diseases and their treatments. His works contribute significantly to the knowledge of medoroga (obesity) and provide insights into managing various health conditions.

31) Vihara:
Vihara signifies activities or behaviors in Ayurveda, reflecting the importance of lifestyle in promoting health. Appropriate vihara is essential for balancing doshas and maintaining overall well-being, particularly in preventing obesity and related disorders.

32) Barley:
Barley is a nutritious grain often highlighted in Ayurvedic dietary practices. Its properties may support digestion and weight management, making it an integral part of food choices for promoting balance and health.

33) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental energies (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) that govern physiological and psychological functions in Ayurveda. Maintaining dosha balance is central to health and the prevention of diseases, including obesity.

34) Honey:
Honey is regarded as a beneficial natural sweetener in Ayurveda, known for its healing properties. It symbolizes nourishment and balance, playing a role in various herbal formulations aimed at combating obesity and supporting overall health.

35) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha is one of the three doshas characterized by earth and water elements. Its excess can lead to obesity due to its properties of stability and heaviness; thus management of kapha is crucial for maintaining health.

36) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana refers to detoxification processes in Ayurveda aimed at cleansing the body. Effective for alleviating conditions like obesity, shodhana techniques help in restoring balance and promoting harmonious functioning of dhatus.

37) Medoroga (Medas-roga):
Medoroga is the Ayurvedic term for obesity. It describes a state of excessive fat accumulation resulting from imbalances in diet and lifestyle, requiring specific dietary and therapeutic interventions to restore balance and health.

38) Tikshna (Tiksna):
Tikshna refers to sharpness or potency in Ayurvedic terminology. It often describes therapeutic agents that accelerate digestion and metabolism, crucial for addressing conditions like obesity by enhancing the digestive fire (agni).

39) Quality:
Quality in Ayurveda relates to the attributes of food, herbs, and treatments that impact health. Assessing the quality ensures that therapeutic interventions effectively address specific conditions and foster overall well-being.

40) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi refers to disease or disorder in Ayurveda. Understanding vyadhi involves diagnosing the underlying imbalances and implementing appropriate therapies to restore equilibrium and health in individuals.

41) Thirst:
Thirst, or pipasa, is an important sensation signaling dehydration or the need for fluid intake. In Ayurveda, managing thirst levels through proper hydration is essential for maintaining balance, especially for mitigating conditions caused by excess heat or dryness.

42) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna translates to warmth or heat in Ayurveda and is often associated with properties that stimulate digestion and metabolic processes. Ushna qualities can help in treating obesity by enhancing digestive fire (agni) and facilitating effective nutrient absorption.

43) Water:
Water is essential for all bodily functions in Ayurveda, facilitating nutrient transport, digestion, and temperature regulation. Proper hydration is vital for maintaining homeostasis and preventing conditions associated with dehydration.

44) Sama (Shama):
Sama denotes balance and stability in Ayurvedic philosophy, reflecting the ideal state of dosha and dhatu harmony. Achieving sama is essential for optimal health and the prevention of diseases like obesity.

45) Clerodendrum phlomidis:
Clerodendrum phlomidis, known as Agnimantha in Ayurveda, is a plant utilized for its medicinal properties. It is often incorporated into formulations aimed at detoxification and promoting overall health, supporting dietary efforts against obesity.

46) Agnimandya (Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Agnimandya symbolizes a low digestive fire or sluggish metabolism, a core concept in Ayurveda linked to obesity. Enhancing agni through dietary adjustments and therapies is crucial for effective fat metabolism and health restoration.

47) Depression:
Depression in Ayurveda can be seen as a state of mental imbalance influenced by unresolved emotions and lifestyles. It impacts appetite and activity levels, often exacerbating conditions like obesity, requiring holistic therapeutic approaches.

48) Udvartana:
Udvartana refers to the Ayurvedic practice of powder massage aimed at enhancing circulation and reducing excess fat. This technique is used therapeutically in cases of obesity, fostering detoxification and promoting overall vitality.

49) Dhatvagni (Dhatu-agni):
Dhatvagni refers to the metabolic fire responsible for the transformation of food into dhatus. Proper functioning of dhatvagni is crucial for maintaining health, and balancing it is essential in the treatment of obesity and metabolic disorders.

50) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasadhatu is the first dhatu in the sequence of tissue development in Ayurveda. It represents the essence of nourishment and the primary blood plasma, laying the foundation for systemic health and metabolic processes.

51) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the disturbance or imbalance of doshas or dhatus, leading to disease. Recognizing vitiation is crucial for diagnosing health conditions and implementing effective Ayurvedic treatments aimed at restoration.

52) Medicine:
Medicine, in Ayurveda, typically refers to the holistic treatment approaches encompassing herbal remedies, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle modifications designed to promote health and prevent disease.

53) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweating is a natural detoxification process in Ayurveda, helping the body expel waste and maintain temperature. It is often encouraged through specific therapies, particularly in managing obesity and cleansing treatments.

54) Science (Scientific):
Science underpins the principles of Ayurveda, integrating traditional knowledge with modern research methodologies. The evolving understanding of health, diseases, and treatments contributes to the credibility and application of Ayurvedic practices today.

55) Vikara:
Vikara denotes disorders or abnormal conditions in Ayurveda, typically caused by imbalances in doshas or dhatus. Understanding vikara is essential for diagnosis and treatment, guiding the approach toward restoring health.

56) Sevana:
Sevana refers to the practice of proper consumption or usage in Ayurveda, emphasizing the importance of adhering to appropriate dietary practices and lifestyle choices for maintaining health and preventing diseases.

57) Rasaja (Rasa-ja):
Rasaja refers to diseases caused by the vitiation of rasa (plasma) in Ayurveda. It highlights the connection between nutritional intake and health, guiding treatments that restore balance.

58) Vamana:
Vamana is a therapeutic procedure in Ayurveda that induces vomiting to expel excess kapha dosha and toxins. It's particularly beneficial in treating conditions like obesity, by cleansing the digestive tract.

59) Cancer:
Cancer, while not extensively covered in traditional Ayurveda, is considered a serious condition often linked to dietary and lifestyle imbalances. Ayurvedic approaches focus on preventing risk factors and promoting holistic health to mitigate potential risks.

60) Powder:
Powder, often derived from medicinal herbs in Ayurveda, is used in various formulations and therapies to enhance digestion, detoxify the body, and support metabolic functioning, particularly in managing conditions like obesity.

61) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa refers to muscle tissue in Ayurveda, representing one of the seven dhatus. The health and quality of mamsa directly affect physical strength and vitality, playing a vital role in overall well-being.

62) Ahara:
Ahara means food or diet in Ayurveda, encompassing all dietary practices that nourish the body and mind. Proper ahara is essential for maintaining health and preventing conditions such as obesity and related diseases.

63) Basti:
Basti refers to the therapeutic enema in Ayurveda, used for detoxifying the body and balancing doshas. It is an important procedure in the management of obesity and other metabolic disorders.

64) Hair:
Hair signifies health in Ayurvedic terms, reflecting the balance of doshas particularly related to rasa (plasma) and meda (fat). Proper care and nourishment practices can enhance hair health and are often included in wellness regimens.

65) Guru:
Guru refers to heavy or dense substances in Ayurveda, often describing food or medicinal preparations that may cause weight gain. Understanding the properties of guru substances helps manage conditions like obesity effectively.

66) Yava:
Yava, or barley, is recognized in Ayurveda as a beneficial grain. It supports digestion and weight management, making it a significant inclusion in the diet for practices aimed at achieving balance.

67) Shri (Sri, Sr):
Shri is a respectful title often used in Indian culture, signifying reverence. When associated with Ayurvedic texts or scholars, it emphasizes the esteem and significance of their contributions to the health sciences.

68) Wine:
Wine, while celebrated socially, is to be consumed judiciously as it contains calories that can lead to weight gain. In Ayurveda, moderation and understanding individual health conditions are crucial when incorporating such substances.

69) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known as Guduchi in Ayurveda, is a revered herb with immunomodulating properties. Incorporating Guduchi into treatments supports metabolic functions and immune health, aiding in the management of obesity.

70) Emblica officinalis:
Emblica officinalis, or Amla, is a significant fruit in Ayurveda, noted for its wealth of vitamin C and antioxidant properties. It supports digestion and overall health, commonly included in formulations aimed at weight management.

71) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, known as Haritaki, is a key herb used in Ayurveda for its digestive and detoxifying properties. Its application is vital in formulations supporting weight management and promoting balanced digestion.

72) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, known as Musta in Ayurveda, is valued for its digestive and carminative benefits. It is utilized in treatments for obesity to aid digestion and support metabolic health.

73) Horse gram:
Horse gram is a nourishing legume in Ayurveda recognized for its high protein and fiber content. It supports digestion and is included in dietary plans that target weight management.

74) Stereospermum suaveolens:
Stereospermum suaveolens is recognized in Ayurvedic texts for its medicinal properties. Its applications may support various health benefits, including addressing disorders associated with metabolic disturbances.

75) Oroxylum indicum:
Oroxylum indicum, often referenced in Ayurvedic literature, is valued for its therapeutic properties. It is used for its potential benefits in detoxification and supporting the body’s nutritional needs.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 170]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Exploring obesity through ayurveda w.s.r to stholya’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Agnimandya, Shrota, Kaphadosha, Medodhatu, Physical activity, Psychological factor, Shodhana Therapy, Shamana Therapy, Body mass index, Nidanaparivarjana, Food and Drug Administration, Srotorodha, Aacharya Sushruta, Lifestyle change, Aacharya Charaka, Bariatric Surgery, Obesity Prevention.

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