Abstract
In the today’s era of modernization due to Scientific and technological progress has made man highly sensitive and critical but it gives rise to different types of health problems. The development of industrialization and communication is contributing towards sedentary life styles, in turn causing chronic non- communicable diseases like diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cancer, ischemic heart disease, cerebro-vascular accidents, atherosclerosis, varicose veins etc. Obesity is a major lifestyle disorders, it is a disease which grows rapidly ranking one of the most common chronic metabolic disorder, Obese people tend to develop insulin resistance and this insulin resistancy is the cause for metabolic syndrome, metabolic syndrome is considered as cluster of conditions that occur together increasing risk of cardiac disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes mellitus and hence prevention of obesity will decrease the chances of such diseases. A recent world health study reports that obesity is included among the top ten selected risks to health. Sedentary lifestyle and inclusion of increased intake of oily and fatty foods in the daily diet result in this disorder. 75% Indian women in the cities are apple-shaped, while 58% men are obese.
Obesity in Ayurveda described under the heading of Sthaulya. Charak has described Sthaulya as a disease of accumulation of excessive Meda and Mamsa Dhatu, which result into pendulous appearance of buttocks, belly and breast. Atisthula has been classified under Ashta Ninditiya Purush. Sushruta opined that some of Upadrava of Sthaulya are Prameh Pidaka, Jwar, Bhagandar, Vidradhi and Vatvikara. Vagbhat explain Shodhan Chikitsa for Sthaulya. Charak has advised to administer Guru, Atarpana, Chestha, and Karshana in Sthula.
Keywords: Sthaulya, Medadhatu, Shodhana, Obesity.