Ayurvedic treatments for supporting healthy weight loss and metabolism

Jan 28, 2025|Dr Ravin Chandak|M.D., PhD.(Scho)

Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine originating from India, provides a comprehensive approach to maintaining health and managing weight. Obesity or fatness is a condition where the body accumulates excessive amounts of fat. It has many causes, including genetic factors and lifestyle choices. Obesity can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes. Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine, plays important role in weight management.

According to Ayurveda, there are three main causes of weight gain 

Vata Dosha: It is responsible for excess weight gain. It’s responsible for the metabolism of fat and the digestion of food.

Pitta Dosha: It is responsible for excess weight gain due to inflammation and burning of calories through the body’s process of breaking down food into energy.

Kapha Dosha: It is responsible for excess weight gain due to water retention around the body and bloating muscles, organs, and tissues which can lead to a feeling of being full even when you haven’t eaten enough calories or nutrients to sustain yourself. 

Ayurvedic treatments

1. Ayurveda offers a variety of herbs known for their weight loss benefits. Some of the best Ayurvedic herbs for weight loss include: 

Guggul: Helps boost metabolism and reduce cholesterol levels.

Triphala: helps in digestion and detoxification.

Garcinia Cambogia: Suppresses appetite and inhibits fat production.

Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which helps in weight management by reducing inflammation and aiding digestion.

Ginger: Improves digestion, reduces appetite, and boosts metabolism

Cinnamon: Regulates blood sugar levels, curbing cravings and promoting weight loss.

Fenugreek: Helps control appetite and stabilizes blood sugar levels.

Licorice: Supports weight loss by reducing body fat accumulation and controlling cravings.

Ashwagandha: Reduces cortisol levels, and stress-related weight gain, and improves overall energy levels.

Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants and catechins that boost metabolism and aid fat burning.

2) Role of Panchakarma:

Vamana and Virechana are two of the five main procedures of Panchakarma, a traditional Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapy. It indirectly support weight management by addressing imbalances in the body’s doshas (energies) and promoting overall health.

Vamana (Emesis): The Vamana procedure for ayurvedic treatment for weight loss involves inducing controlled vomiting using herbal preparations. It is primarily aimed at removing excess Kapha dosha and toxins from the upper respiratory and gastrointestinal tract. Kapha dosha is associated with qualities like heaviness, sluggishness, and excess mucus. In the context of weight management, excess Kapha dosha can contribute to weight gain, water retention, and slow metabolism according to Ayurvedic principles. By eliminating excess Kapha and toxins, proponents suggest that Vamana may help balance the body and support healthier metabolic processes.  

Virechana (Purgation): Virechana therapy involves the use of purgative herbs to induce controlled bowel movements and eliminate excess Pitta dosha and toxins from the body, particularly from the liver and gallbladder. Pitta dosha is associated with qualities like heat, digestion, and metabolism. Excess Pitta dosha can lead to inflammation, digestive issues, and potential imbalances that might affect weight. By promoting detoxification and balancing Pitta dosha, Virechana is thought to contribute to improved digestion and metabolism.  

3) Along with Panchakarma treatments, Udwarthanam is also useful to get inch loss.

4) Some Yogasana are helpful in reducing weight: Virabhadrasana, Trikonasana,, AdhoMukha Svanasana, Sarvangasana, Sethu Bandha Sarvangasana, Parivrtta Utkatasana, Dhanurasana, suryanamskara Also, yoga is great for increasing muscle tone and flexibility which are both important components of maintaining a healthy weight level throughout the day and throughout your life. Finally, yoga improves circulation throughout the body which helps burn calories faster than just walking around on a treadmill or running 

5) There are Some Medicine Name which are useful in weight loss : Navak Gugglu, Ayaskriti, Triphala Guggul, Kanchanar Guggul, Varanadi Kashaya Ayurvedic treatments offer a holistic and balanced approach to supporting healthy weight loss and metabolism. By focusing on dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, lifestyle practices, cleansing techniques, and the mind-body connection, Ayurveda provides a comprehensive framework for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

This ancient system of medicine emphasizes the importance of individualized care and the integration of mind and body, which can complement modern health practices and contribute to long-term well-being. For those seeking a sustainable and holistic approach to weight management, Ayurveda offers valuable insights and practical strategies rooted in a deep understanding of human physiology and balance.  

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