Obesity, marked by excessive body fat, is a growing health crisis globally, particularly in developed countries. It stems from factors such as unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, genetic predispositions, and medical conditions like hypothyroidism and Cushing’s syndrome. Certain medications, including corticosteroids and oral contraceptives, can also contribute to weight gain. Obesity significantly increases the risk of various health problems, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Contributing factors include overeating, a sedentary lifestyle, and poor dietary choices. Effective prevention and management strategies focus on maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and making healthy lifestyle changes. Addressing obesity is vital for improving overall health and reducing the burden of related diseases.

Several natural herbs are specifically mentioned in Ayurveda for treating obesity and related conditions. These herbs aid in gradual weight loss, mirroring the body’s natural weight gain process. They also help maintain tight and healthy skin during weight loss without causing side effects. These herbs are highly effective for weight loss as they help dissolve adipose tissues and prevent their further formation.

Following are the 16 Ayurvedic herbs recommended for obesity

  • Vilayati Imli (Garcenia Cambogia) Fruit – It is popularly used for weight management due to its hydroxycitric acid (HCA) content, which helps suppress appetite and inhibit fat production. It supports digestive health and can alleviate symptoms such as bloating and constipation. Additionally, Garcinia cambogia is known for its potential to boost energy levels and improve overall metabolic function.
  • Chitrakmool (Plumbago Zeylanica) Root – It is valued in traditional medicine for its digestive benefits, helping to stimulate appetite and alleviate indigestion and constipation. It possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it useful in treating various infections and inflammatory conditions.
  • Amla (Embelica Officinalis) Fruit – It aids in weight management by boosting metabolism and promoting fat reduction. Its high fiber content helps in controlling appetite and improving digestion. Additionally, Amla’s antioxidant properties support overall metabolic health and prevent oxidative stress, which can contribute to obesity.
  • Bibhitaki (Terminalia Belerica) Fruit – It enhances metabolism and aid in the reduction of body fat. It helps regulate digestion and prevents the accumulation of excess fat through its mild laxative properties. Additionally, Bibhitaki’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits promote overall metabolic health and well-being.
  • Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula) Fruit – It aids by enhancing digestion and metabolism, which helps in reducing body fat. It acts as a natural detoxifier, eliminating toxins and promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, Haritaki’s antioxidant properties support overall health and prevent oxidative stress, contributing to weight control.
  • Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) Rhizome – It assists in reducing body fat by boosting metabolism and enhancing fat burning. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and decreases appetite, promoting a feeling of fullness. Additionally, ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties support overall metabolic health and prevent inflammation associated with obesity.
  • Kali Mirch (Piper Nigrum) Fruit – Helps in enhancing fat breakdown. It contains piperine, which aids in improving digestion and nutrient absorption. Additionally, black pepper reduces the formation of new fat cells, supporting effective weight reduction.
  • Nagar Motha (Cyprus Rotundus) Tuber – It contains compounds that help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings, supporting weight loss efforts. Additionally, Nagar Motha’s anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to overall metabolic health and weight control.
  • Gokhru (Tribulus Terrestris) Fruit – Its diuretic properties may contribute to reducing water retention, aiding in weight loss and it promotes fat breakdown.
  • Guggul (Commiphora mukul) Gum Resin – It helps regulate cholesterol levels and supports thyroid function, which can contribute to weight loss. Additionally, Guggul’s anti-inflammatory properties may aid in reducing inflammation associated with obesity.
  • Nishoth (Operculina Turpethum) Root – It helps in detoxification, eliminating toxins that contribute to weight gain. Additionally, Nishoth’s mild laxative properties support bowel regularity, aiding in weight loss efforts.
  • Pippali (Piper Longum) Fruit – It aids in digestion, alleviating digestive discomfort and bloating. Additionally, Pippali’s thermogenic properties contribute to increased calorie burning, aiding in weight loss efforts.
  • Vavding (Embelia Ribes) Fruit – It is valued for its digestive benefits, aiding in relieving indigestion and bloating. It possesses antimicrobial properties, supporting gastrointestinal health and preventing infections. Additionally, Vavding fruit is used in traditional medicine for its potential to regulate blood sugar levels and support in fat breakdown.
  • Shilajit (Mineral Pitch) Resin – It supports energy production and enhances physical performance, facilitating weight loss efforts. Additionally, Shilajit’s antioxidant properties may help reduce inflammation and support overall metabolic health.
  • Arjuna (Terminalia Arjuna) Stem – It aids in managing obesity by regulating lipid metabolism and promoting weight loss. It supports cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels and improving blood circulation. Additionally, Arjuna stem’s antioxidant properties may help reduce inflammation and support overall metabolic function.
  • Gurmar (Gymnema Sylvestre) Leaf – It helps in obesity management by reducing sugar cravings and promoting glucose metabolism. It supports weight loss efforts by regulating blood sugar levels and inhibiting the absorption of carbohydrates. Additionally, Gurmar’s potential to improve insulin sensitivity may contribute to effective weight management.

These herbs gently detoxify the body, enhancing nutritional and metabolic functions. They gradually eliminate fatty toxins from the system while boosting digestive power, facilitating proper digestion, absorption, and assimilation. This process ensures the nutrients are effectively distributed throughout the body. Additionally, these herbs help control excessive hunger and cravings for sweet foods.

Ayurvedic Lifestyle

  • Nutritional diet, Morning walk, Yoga, Peaceful mind, Restful sleep.

Foods to Favor

  • Take lukewarm water half an hour before each meal.
  • A light diet (low-calorie diet) consisting of rice, green gram (lentil) soup, black gram (lentil) soup, fresh leafy vegetables and drinks prepared from yogurt (90% water +10% yogurt mixed with “Rock Salt” and” black pepper”) should be taken.
  • Barley, honey, watermelon, and papaya are more beneficial.
  • Do lots of physical work or exercise.
  • Morning fast walk helps in burning excess calories of the body.
  • Fasting once a week will be quite effective.
  • Fibrous diet should be favored.

Foods to Avoid

  • Heavy, fatty, fried and junk food should be avoided.
  • Don’t take cakes, pastries, chocolates, sweets, seafood, eggs, meat products (except chicken), noodles, milk products, nuts (except yogurt), alcoholic beverages and bananas.
  • Avoid cold drinks and alcohol.
  • Milk products (except yogurt) should be avoided.
  • Over-eating should be avoided. (Eat less food than hunger).
  • Don’t sleep in the daytime, especially just after eating.

Do’s

  • Take honey once a day.
  • Drink lukewarm water instead of chilled water.
  • Take more liquid food than to take solid food.
  • Enhance physical activity which is the best part.
  • Add fresh fruits and a lot of salads to your diet.
  • Do fasting once a week.
  • Take a more fibrous diet.

Don’ts

  • Avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
  • Avoid too much alcohol consumption.
  • Avoid too many sugary products.
Dr. Dolly Thakur
Dr. Dolly Thakur

Ayurvedic Physician, Dr. Dolly Thakur. With her qualifications of BAMS and MD in Ayurveda, Dr. Thakur brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our practice.

With 15 years of clinical experience, she has dedicated her career to providing exceptional care and guidance. Her deep understanding of Ayurvedic principles and her compassionate approach make her an invaluable asset to our team.

Dr. Thakur's expertise will greatly benefit your health and well-being. We look forward to assisting you on your journey to better health under her expert care.

Contact her for a free consultation at health@vedaliving.com

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