A critical review of medovrudhhi with special reference to overweight
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A critical review of medovrudhhi with special reference to overweight
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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Dr. Rupali Bedre
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: A critical review of medovrudhhi with special reference to overweight
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20229-24759
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Obesity is a pressing global health issue linked to various serious conditions like type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. In Ayurveda, the concept of overweight—referred to as Medovrudhhi—is recognized as a precursor to obesity (Sthoulya). Understanding and managing Medovrudhhi is essential in preventing the progression to obesity. This article reviews the Ayurvedic and modern perspectives on overweight, identifying symptoms, etiological factors, and management strategies for early intervention.
The Ayurvedic Framework of Medovrudhhi
Ayurveda distinguishes between two stages of overweight and obesity. Medovrudhhi is seen as an increase in the Medo Dhatu, indicating a pre-disease stage, while Sthoulya represents a more advanced condition marked by disease formation. Historical texts suggest that addressing vitiated Doshas at the early stage of Medovrudhhi can prevent the subsequent development of Sthoulya and its associated complications. Ayurvedic practices emphasize the importance of dietary management and lifestyle modifications tailored to the individual's dosha constitution.
Modern Perspectives on Overweight
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), overweight is classified as a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 29.9, while obesity is a BMI of 30 or above. Overweight and obesity are growing concerns globally, cutting across socioeconomic boundaries, with significant health ramifications. The rising prevalence is attributed to increased caloric intake and insufficient physical activity, which are common in modern lifestyles. Consequently, early diagnosis at the overweight stage offers a vital opportunity to address weight-related health issues before they escalate.
Symptoms and Clinical Management
The symptoms of Medovrudhhi, as described in Ayurvedic texts, include increased body unctuousness, abdominal enlargement, and breathlessness due to excess fat accumulation. Conventional medicine also identifies comorbidities associated with overweight, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Management typically involves lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and consistent physical activity. Ayurvedic treatments focus on reversing Medovrudhhi through specific food recommendations that promote weight loss, emphasizing a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Ayurvedic and modern medicine recognize the importance of early intervention in managing overweight to prevent obesity. Medovrudhhi serves as a crucial indicator for potential health complications, and its treatment can significantly mitigate the risk of progression to obesity. With the increasing prevalence of overweight populations worldwide, integrating preventive strategies from Ayurveda, including proper diet and lifestyle changes, could play a key role in managing this global health issue effectively.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Medovrudhhi in Ayurvedic terms?
Medovrudhhi refers to overweight, characterized by an increase in MedoDhatu, which is a precursor to obesity (Sthoulya) in Ayurveda.
What are the risks associated with Medovrudhhi?
Medovrudhhi increases the risk of serious health issues, including type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and other obesity-related complications.
How is Medovrudhhi identified in individuals?
Symptoms include increased body unctuousness, abdominal enlargement, breathlessness, and fatigue after minimal exertion, indicating excessive fat accumulation.
What is the role of diet in managing Medovrudhhi?
A proper diet helps maintain balance in Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala, focusing on fiber intake and limiting fats and cholesterol.
How does Ayurveda propose to prevent obesity from Medovrudhhi?
Ayurveda emphasizes early detection and management of Medovrudhhi through dietary control, lifestyle changes, and specific herbal formulations to avoid obesity.
What are the Ayurvedic treatment principles for Medovrudhhi?
Treatment involves using substances that counteract Kapha dosha or MedoDhatu, promoting weight loss while balancing body energies.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A critical review of medovrudhhi with special reference to overweight”. 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:
Dhatu refers to the fundamental bodily tissues in Ayurveda that are responsible for vital functions and structures within the body. Each dhatu plays a crucial role in maintaining health, and an imbalance or excess in dhatus can lead to various health issues such as obesity when Meda (fat tissue) is increased significantly. Understanding the qualities and functions of dhatus aids in diagnosing and treating diseases effectively.
2) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha signifies the three biological energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurveda, which govern the physiological and psychological processes in the body. The balance among these doshas is essential for good health. An imbalance or vitiation of doshas can lead to various diseases, including obesity (Sthoulya), especially when Kapha dosha is predominant due to excess Meda-dhatu.
3) Disease:
Diseases in Ayurveda are seen as a consequence of imbalances in doshas, dhatus, and malas. Various lifestyle and dietary factors can lead to these imbalances, causing conditions like obesity. Understanding the underlying causes of diseases is crucial in Ayurveda for appropriate interventions and treatments.
4) Food:
Food (Ahara) is a vital part of Ayurvedic practice, as it directly influences the doshas and dhatus in the body. Consuming appropriate and wholesome food contributes to maintaining balance and health, while inappropriate diets can lead to imbalances, resulting in conditions like overweight (Medovrudhhi) or obesity (Sthoulya).
5) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities of heaviness, stability, and moisture. It governs the body's structure and fluid balance. Excessive Kapha can lead to conditions such as Medovrudhhi and Sthoulya, emphasizing the need for appropriate dietary and lifestyle choices to maintain its balance.
6) Vriddhi (Vrddhi):
Vriddhi refers to the increase or growth of dhatus or doshas in the body. In the context of Medovrudhhi, vriddhi signifies the excessive accumulation of Meda-dhatu, leading to overweight and potentially progressing to obesity. Understanding vriddhi helps in implementing corrective measures through diet and lifestyle adjustments.
7) Developing:
Developing in this context refers to the progression of a condition from one stage to another, particularly from Medovrudhhi (overweight) to Sthoulya (obesity). Recognizing the stages of development is crucial for early intervention and prevention of further complications associated with excessive weight.
8) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha doshas, characterized by heaviness and stability, play a significant role in bodily functions. Their imbalance can lead to conditions like Medovrudhhi and Sthaulya, making the understanding of Kapha essential in the prevention and management of obesity.
9) Diet:
Diet (Ahara) is fundamental to maintaining health in Ayurveda, as it directly impacts the balance of doshas and dhatus. A proper diet aids in managing weight, improving overall health, and preventing diseases such as obesity. Dietary recommendations for individuals with Medovrudhhi include incorporating light, digestible foods that do not aggravate Kapha.
10) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the state of impairment or disturbance of doshas and dhatus in the body. This deterioration can lead to disease, including Medovrudhhi, hence recognizing vitiation early is crucial for timely intervention and effective treatment.
11) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient holistic healing system that emphasizes balance among mind, body, and spirit. It treats disorders by restoring harmony through personalized diet, lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and therapies. Ayurveda provides valuable insights into managing conditions like overweight (Medovrudhhi) by addressing root causes and promoting prevention.
12) Dravya:
Dravyas are substances that are used in Ayurveda for therapeutic purposes. The appropriate selection of dravyas is crucial in formulating treatments for conditions such as Medovrudhhi, as their properties directly influence the balance of doshas and dhatus.
13) Mala:
Mala refers to the waste products of metabolic processes in Ayurveda. Proper elimination of mala is essential for maintaining health. Accumulation or imbalance in mala can contribute to diseases such as obesity, thus reinforcing the importance of detoxifying practices within Ayurvedic treatment strategies.
14) Jatharagni (Jathara-agni):
Jatharagni is the digestive fire that processes food in the stomach. It is crucial for maintaining metabolic health and the transformation of food into dhatus. A weak or imbalanced Jatharagni can lead to improper digestion, contributing to conditions such as Medovrudhhi through inadequate metabolic processing.
15) Substance:
Substances refer to any material or element used therapeutically in Ayurveda. Their selection is essential in treatment plans for conditions such as Medovrudhhi, as they can either help restore balance or contribute to weight gain if not chosen wisely.
16) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is an ancient physician and author in Ayurveda known for his contributions to Ayurvedic texts. His works provide insights into the management of conditions like Medovrudhhi and offer guidance on dietary and therapeutic approaches to aid in maintaining health and preventing diseases.
17) Prakopa:
Prakopa marks the stage in Ayurveda where doshas become aggravated and begin to manifest symptoms of disease. Recognizing this stage is critical for early intervention, especially in conditions such as Medovrudhhi, to prevent further progression to obesity (Sthoulya).
18) Study (Studying):
Studying implies the comprehensive investigation of Ayurvedic concepts and their application in modern health paradigms. Through studying, practitioners can gain insights into managing weight-related conditions like Medovrudhhi effectively, adhering to Ayurvedic principles.
19) Hetu:
Hetu indicates the underlying cause or factors contributing to a condition in Ayurveda. Understanding the hetu behind Medovrudhhi is critical for effective treatment as it enables practitioners to address the root causes, including dietary habits and lifestyle choices.
20) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to the primary element of nutrition in Ayurveda, representing the essence of food as it is digested and transformed into dhatus. Rasa plays a significant role in overall health; imbalances can affect the accumulation of Meda-dhatu and contribute to conditions like obesity.
21) Sign:
Sign refers to the symptoms or indicators of a specific health condition in Ayurveda. Identifying these signs is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, particularly for conditions such as Medovrudhhi, which can subsequently lead to serious complications if not monitored.
22) Medadhatu (Meda-dhatu):
Meda-dhatu represents the adipose tissue or fat in the body, crucial for energy storage. Excessive accumulation of Meda-dhatu contributes to overweight and obesity. Understanding its role is vital for devising treatment strategies that focus on balancing body weight.
23) Purvarupa (Purva-rupa):
Purvarupa relates to the pre-manifestation stage of a disease, characterized by early signs that precede full-blown symptoms. Recognizing purvarupa is key in Ayurveda to prevent chronic conditions such as Sthoulya by addressing issues early in the Medovrudhhi stage.
24) Sthaulya:
Sthaulya is the Ayurvedic term for obesity, representing a significant excess of body weight that can lead to various health issues. Understanding Sthaulya as a condition stemming from earlier stages like Medovrudhhi allows for effective preventative measures and treatments.
25) Samgraha (Sangraha):
Sangraha indicates the collection or aggregation of substances or conditions in Ayurveda. It is relevant to the accumulation of doshas or dhatus leading to overweight, emphasizing the importance of balance between consumption and expenditure to avoid detrimental health effects.
26) Activity:
Activity refers to physical exertion that plays a significant role in maintaining health and balancing doshas. In managing conditions like Medovrudhhi, increased activity is recommended to prevent the progression to obesity and to enhance metabolic processes.
27) Samanya:
Samanya denotes common characteristics shared by substances or qualities in Ayurveda. It is crucial for understanding how similar qualities of food or lifestyle choices can influence the doshas and potentially lead to vraiddhi in conditions like Medovrudhhi.
28) Cancer:
Cancer, in the context of overweight and obesity, is a significant health concern linked to increased body weight. Obesity elevates the risk of various cancers, emphasizing the need for weight management strategies to prevent such life-threatening conditions.
29) Nature:
Nature in Ayurveda is understood as the inherent qualities and characteristics of substances and elements within the body and environment. Recognizing the nature of food and activities helps in making informed choices to maintain balance and health, particularly in avoiding Medovrudhhi.
30) Guru:
Guru refers to the quality of heaviness in Ayurveda, which can be found in certain foods and substances. Diets high in guru foods can lead to an increase in Meda-dhatu, therefore it's important to moderate their intake to prevent conditions associated with obesity.
31) Medas (Meda, Medash):
Meda pertains to fat tissue in the body, an essential component of the dhatus. Its proper balance is crucial for health, but excessive Meda contributes to overweight and obesity, necessitating lifestyle modifications for individuals suffering from Medovrudhhi.
32) Guna:
Gunas are the inherent qualities of substances, including food. They play a vital role in determining how substances interact with the body, significantly influencing the prevention and management of conditions like Medovrudhhi.
33) Life:
Life in Ayurveda is viewed holistically, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional health. Maintaining balance through proper lifestyle choices and dietary practices is essential for overall well-being and longevity, preventing conditions such as overweight and obesity.
34) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transforming refers to the process of metabolic change that occurs when food is digested and converted into dhatus. Effective transformation is necessary to maintain health and prevent excess accumulation of Meda-dhatu, which can lead to obesity.
35) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasa-dhatu represents the body's primary nutritive fluid containing all necessary nutrients. Its quality affects overall health and directly influences the development of dhatus such as Meda. Proper management of Rasa-dhatu is essential to prevent overweight.
36) Harvesting (Harvest):
Harvesting indicates the process of collecting food substances once they mature. Timely harvesting of grains and pulses ensures nutritional value, which is crucial in formulating diets for individuals with conditions like Medovrudhhi, as fresh produce is lighter for digestion.
37) Snigdhata:
Snigdhata represents the unctuousness or oiliness in the body attributed to Meda. An increase in Meda leads to heightened snigdhata, which can result in various discomforts and health issues, including breathlessness and skin issues, found in cases of Medovrudhhi.
38) Dhatvagni (Dhatu-agni):
Dhatvagni is the subtle digestive fire responsible for transforming food into dhatus. A strong Dhatvagni ensures proper metabolism and utilization of nutrients, whereas a weakened Dhatvagni can lead to the accumulation of excess fat, contributing to conditions like Medovrudhhi.
39) Samhita:
Samhita refers to the classical texts of Ayurveda that compile foundational knowledge on health and treatment practices. These texts are essential for guiding practitioners in understanding and managing conditions like Medovrudhhi effectively, helping patients to restore balance.
40) Prasara:
Prasara is the stage in disease pathology where doshas spread from their original site, causing further health issues. Recognizing the prasara stage is crucial in managing Medovrudhhi before it progresses to irreversible obesity through timely interventions.
41) Snigdha:
Snigdha denotes the characteristic of oiliness or unctuousness inherent to certain substances. An increase in snigdha can lead to health complications, emphasizing the need to monitor dietary choices and lifestyle factors in individuals experiencing Medovrudhhi.
42) Science (Scientific):
Science in the context of Ayurveda refers to the systematic study of health and wellness principles. It encompasses both empirical knowledge and traditional wisdom, forming a basis for understanding complex conditions like Medovrudhhi and their prevention through evidence-based approaches.
43) Vikara:
Vikara denotes the condition of disturbance or alteration in the body's natural state. In the context of Medovrudhhi, recognizing vikara associated with dosha imbalance is essential for developing effective treatment strategies to restore health.
44) Sthula:
Sthula refers to the condition of being gross or thick, often associated with obesity. Understanding the concept of sthula helps in diagnosing and treating overweight conditions like Medovrudhhi before they progress to more serious states like Sthaulya.
45) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya signifies the decrease or depletion of dhatus or doshas. Recognizing kshaya is crucial in Ayurveda, especially when addressing conditions of excess like Medovrudhhi, where a balance between vriddhi (increase) and kshaya must be maintained for optimal health.
46) Reason:
Reason refers to the underlying cause or rationale for a health condition in Ayurveda. Identifying the reasons for conditions like Medovrudhhi is critical for developing effective treatment plans and preventive strategies tailored to individual needs.
47) Nagapura (Naga-pura):
Nagpur is a geographical location that may represent the context for Ayurvedic practices or studies in this discourse. The relevance of geography includes its influence on local diet, lifestyle, and cultural practices, affecting the prevalence and management of conditions like Medovrudhhi.
48) Kriya:
Kriya refers to the actions or processes in Ayurvedic therapies essential for maintaining health and preventing diseases. Implementing appropriate kriyas (therapeutic actions) is critical for managing conditions like Medovrudhhi by supporting detoxification and balance.
49) Karma (Karman):
Karma refers to the actions or deeds performed by an individual that impact their health. In Ayurveda, understanding the karmas that contribute to weight gain, such as sedentary lifestyle choices, is vital for managing overweight conditions like Medovrudhhi.
50) Chaya:
Chaya signifies the accumulation of doshas at a site without yet causing disease. Recognizing chaya is essential to intercept unwanted weight gain at an early stage, facilitating timely interventions to avoid progression into Medovrudhhi.
51) Death:
Death represents the ultimate consequence of unresolved health issues and diseases over time. In the context of obesity, associated complications can significantly reduce life expectancy, reinforcing the necessity for early detection and preventive measures against conditions like Medovrudhhi.
52) Fire:
Fire symbolizes the transformative and metabolic processes in Ayurveda, particularly through the concept of agni (digestive fire). A balanced agni is crucial for effective digestion and assimilation of nutrients, helping to prevent the accumulation of excess Meda.
53) Drug:
Drugs encompass the herbal and mineral-based remedies used in Ayurveda for healing. For individuals with Medovrudhhi, appropriate use of drugs can support weight loss and restore balance to the body.
54) Sutrasthana (Sutra-sthana):
Sutra-sthana refers to the section of Ayurvedic texts where foundational principles and treatments are discussed. This knowledge is essential for practitioners to understand and manage conditions like Medovrudhhi effectively through appropriate application of traditional methods.
55) Vriddhihetu (Vrddhihetu, Vriddhi-hetu):
Vriddhi-hetu signifies the causes leading to the increase of doshas or dhatus in the body. Identifying these causes in the context of Medovrudhhi allows for focused prevention strategies and treatments to mitigate weight gain effectively.
56) Shamidhanya (Samidhanya, Shami-dhanya):
Shamidhanya refers to specific grains and seeds that are recommended for their beneficial properties in Ayurveda. These foods are often used in the diet of individuals with Medovrudhhi as they are lighter and support effective metabolism, preventing excess weight accumulation.
57) Materialism (Materialist):
Materialism relates to a lifestyle focused on excessive consumption, leading to unhealthy eating habits and inactivity. In the context of rising obesity rates, it underscores the need for mindful consumption and lifestyle choices to avoid conditions like Medovrudhhi.
58) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulated refers to the buildup of substances, particularly excess fat (Meda) in the case of Medovrudhhi. Understanding the process of accumulation is crucial for developing effective management and prevention strategies against weight gain and obesity.
59) Atisthula (Ati-sthula):
Atisthula corresponds to a body constitution characterized by extreme obesity. Recognizing atisthula helps in developing tailored interventions to prevent related health issues, particularly by addressing the root causes of excess weight gain through dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
60) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analytical examination of Ayurvedic concepts related to conditions like Medovrudhhi. Engaging in discussions allows practitioners to exchange knowledge and strategies to better address obesity prevention and management.
61) Similarity:
Similarity indicates shared characteristics or properties among substances or conditions in Ayurveda. Understanding similarities is key to correlating dietary choices and their effects on doshas, particularly in maintaining a balance to avoid excess weight.
62) Sambandha (Sambamdha):
Sambandha references the relationships between doshas, dhatus, and other elements in Ayurveda. Recognizing these relationships is crucial for understanding the interconnectedness of health conditions, particularly in managing states like Medovrudhhi and Sthoulya.
63) Samprapti:
Samprapti denotes the process of disease manifestation in Ayurveda, detailing the sequence of events leading from dosha imbalance to disease. Understanding samprapti is vital for practitioners to effectively prevent and manage obesity conditions like Medovrudhhi.
64) Daurbalya:
Daurbalya refers to weakness or debility that can arise from excessive weight or poor health conditions. Recognizing daurbalya in individuals with Medovrudhhi is critical for addressing fatigue and improving overall vitality through appropriate interventions.
65) Kaphaghna (Kapha-ghna):
Kaphaghna signifies substances or treatments that counterbalance Kapha dosha, which is essential in managing conditions related to excess weight. Utilizing kaphaghna therapies is crucial for individuals experiencing Medovrudhhi and aiming to restore balance.
66) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding of Ayurvedic principles, dietary practices, and health management strategies. A solid knowledge base is vital for practitioners to diagnose and manage conditions like Medovrudhhi effectively, fostering preventative health approaches.
67) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana represents the distinctive characteristics or indicators of a condition in Ayurveda. Recognizing lakshana helps practitioners diagnose and understand the severity of conditions like Medovrudhhi, thereby facilitating appropriate treatment strategies.
68) Mandagni (Mamdagni, Manda-agni):
Mandagni refers to impaired digestive fire, leading to ineffective digestion and nutrient absorption. Individuals with mandagni are at risk of conditions like Medovrudhhi if dietary habits do not align with their digestive capacity.
69) Bhutagni (Bhuta-agni):
Bhutagni pertains to the digestive fire responsible for metabolizing five elements in Ayurveda. Proper functioning of bhutagni supports overall health, while disturbances can contribute to imbalances resulting in fat accumulation and conditions like Medovrudhhi.
70) Shleshma (Slesma):
Shleshma refers to the unctuousness and cohesiveness associated with Kapha dosha. Understanding shleshma is important for managing conditions related to excess fat accumulation, as it significantly impacts the manifestation of Medovrudhhi.
71) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweating, as a process, is connected to the elimination of mala or waste in Ayurveda. Excess sweating may indicate an imbalance in Meda-dhatu, particularly in conditions like Medovrudhhi, signaling the need for corrective measures.
72) Debility:
Debility signifies a state of weakness or lack of strength that can arise from excess weight or improper health. Recognizing debility in individuals with Medovrudhhi is essential for developing effective strategies to enhance vitality and overall well-being.
73) Channel:
Channel refers to the pathways facilitating the circulation of doshas and dhatus in Ayurveda. Maintaining clear channels is essential for optimal health, as blockages can lead to conditions such as Medovrudhhi and other imbalances.
74) Purusha (Purusa):
Purusha symbolizes the human being in Ayurveda, encompassing the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of health. Understanding the holistic nature of purusha is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment of conditions like Medovrudhhi.
75) Nindita (Nimdita):
Nindita describes an undesirable state or constitution in Ayurveda. Individuals classified as nindita purusha, particularly atisthula, indicate a need for immediate dietary and lifestyle interventions to address their health conditions positively.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 116]