Ayurveda is effective in fighting obesity: Dr Shilpa  Jain

Panchkula, November 26, 2024: Obesity, termed as ‘Medh Rog’ in Ayurveda, is rapidly becoming a global health crisis and the root cause of numerous chronic ailments. From hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes to heart diseases, joint pains, hormonal imbalances, and fatty liver, obesity lays the foundation for serious health complications.

Dr Shilpa  Jain, a renowned Ayurvedic physician with over 22 years of experience and the founder of Sanjivani Ayurvedic Research Centre, located in Sec 16, Panchkula, advocates for a natural and effective approach to weight management through Ayurveda.

“Obesity is not merely a cosmetic concern but a metabolic disorder deeply rooted in imbalances of the body’s doshas—Vaat, Pitta, and Kaff,” explained Dr Jain. “An increase in Kaff dosha, in particular, triggers weight gain, inactiveness, high cholesterol, and other health issues. Ayurveda offers time-tested solutions to address these imbalances holistically and sustainably,” she said.
 
Dr Shilpa Jain was expressing her views in an online session on the subject of 'management and treatment of obesity in ayurveda'. 

She said that the treatment begins with a comprehensive Body Fat Analysis, assessing 13 critical health parameters, including BMI, muscle mass ratio, body water levels, and metabolic age. Based on the results, a personalized diet and yoga plan is designed to suit individual needs.

Dr Jain said further that a combination of key Ayurvedic therapies are used for managing and treating obesity. We conduct 'Panchakarma Therapy' which is a detoxification process to cleanse the body and restore balance. Udvartana Therapy is also employed; this includes a dry powder massage that targets fat cells, aiding in weight loss.”

She added that, 'Abhyang Swedan' which is a combination of oil massage and steam therapy to reduce Kaff dosha is employed under the treatment protocol. We also use Basti Karam under which administering medicated oils or herbal mixtures as an enema to detoxify and balance the doshas is undertaken.

“Through these therapies, coupled with customized diets and yoga routines, patients experience significant weight loss—between 5 to 12 kg per month—without any side effects,” noted Dr Jain.

Dr Jain highlighted that the body’s doshas play a critical role in overall health. She said, “While 'Kaff Dosha' leads to an imbalance that can lead to obesity, lethargy, and heart diseases; 'Vaat Dosha' is associated with joint pains, bloating, and stiffness. Another dosha - 'Pitta Dosha' can lead to indigestion, acidity, and hormonal imbalances.”

 “Our approach focuses on identifying and correcting these imbalances through proper assessment, including Nadi Parikshan (pulse diagnosis), and administering herbal medicines that are safe and effective,” she added.

As the world grapples with the obesity epidemic, Ayurveda offers a beacon of hope—a natural and sustainable way to fight obesity . “The best part is that in Ayurveda we use natural techniques to counter obesity and there is no need for the patient to undergo surgical fat removal,” concluded Dr Shilpa Jain.