Abstract

"A CRITICAL REVIEW ON THE ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF STHOULYA"

*Dr. Arju, Dr. Mahendra Kaswan, Prof. Gopesh Mangal, Dr. Satish Kumar Soni, Dr. Meenakshi

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Abstract

Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial, and preventable health disorder characterized by abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that impairs health. It is a major global health challenge of the 21st century, strongly associated with lifestyle-related factors such as high-calorie intake, physical inactivity, and sedentary habits. Obesity significantly increases the risk of comorbidities including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritis, and certain cancers. From an Ayurvedic perspective, obesity is conceptualized as Sthoulya or Medoroga, classified under Santarpanottha Vikara— diseases caused by over-nourishment. Ayurvedic classics describe Ati- Sthoulya as one of the eight undesirable constitutional types (Ashta Nindita Purusha), with symptoms and etiopathogenesis closely aligning with modern descriptions of obesity. Causative factors such as excessive consumption of sweet and fatty foods, lack of exercise, and daytime sleep lead to an increase in Medo Dhatu and Srotorodha (obstruction of channels), resulting in metabolic disturbances. Management of obesity in Ayurveda emphasizes lifestyle modification, dietary regulation, internal medications, and Shodhana Chikitsa (purificatory therapies) like Panchakarma. Obesity also impacts psychological well-being, personality development, and social interaction. An integrative approach combining modern medical strategies with Ayurvedic principles offers a comprehensive framework for effective obesity management. Aim: To understand the effect of Panchkarma on weight reduction and review the various Panchakarma therapies in management of obesity. Data source- The references for the article are taken from classical textbooks, published research papers and previous work done. Result Sthoulya being systemic diseases, involves a deeper pathology. Panchakarma has the benefits to eliminate the disease from the root along with the toxins accumulated in the body through the nearest route of elimination. Various Panchakarma therapies like Vamana, Virechana, Udvartana; help to reduce obesity and in turn enhance overall personality of the individual. Conclusion: Panchakarma with its diverse dimensions of therapies can help in the management of Sthoulya and can contribute to developing a healthy state of mind and personality.

Keywords: obesity, Sthoulya, Vamana, Virechana, Udvartana.