A randomised clinical study to evaluate add on effect of patol yush as an aahariya kalpana over mustadikwath ghanwati in the management of sthaulya with special reference to obesity.

The main aim of Ayurveda is to cure diseases and maintain a state of health. Ayurveda focuses on maintaining and restoring the body’s ability to balance itself and fight ailments. Obesity is a chronic, complex disease defined by excessive fat deposits that can impair health. It increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and can affect bone health, reproduction, and the risk of certain cancers. Obesity also impacts the quality of life, including sleep and movement.

Overweight and obesity are the fifth leading cause of global deaths. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2022, 2.5 billion adults aged 18 years and older were overweight, including over 890 million adults living with obesity. The prevalence of Sthaulya (obesity) is increasing worldwide across all age groups. According to Ayurvedic texts, Sthaulya is a Santarpanjanya Vyadhi and is detailed in the Ashtang Hridaya and Charak Samhita. In obesity, the Medovaha Strotas (fat channels) are affected, leading to the overgrowth of Medodhatu (fat tissue), which ultimately manifests as obesity.

Weight gain occurs due to an imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure. According to Acharya Charaka, continuous intake of causative factors aggravates Kaphadosha and Medodhatu due to their similar properties. This increases the obstruction of Meda in the channels, and as a result, Vata in the digestive system becomes hyperactive. This stimulates Agni (digestive fire), causing rapid digestion of food and leading to frequent hunger. If sufficient food is not available, this imbalance can cause severe complications.

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition through appropriate food choices, combinations, and cooking methods. Medohara and Kaphanashana diets are recommended in Ayurveda for managing Sthaulya (obesity). Patol Yush is mentioned in the Sushrut Samhita as an effective remedy for treating Medoroga (obesity). It possesses properties such as reducing Kapha, eliminating excess fat, improving digestion, and supporting heart health. This study aims to evaluate the combined effect of Patol Yush as an Aahariya Kalpana (dietary formulation) with Mustadikwath Ghanwati in managing Sthaulya, as Mustadikwath Ghanwati has already shown effectiveness in treating obesity.