Abstract

AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVES ON CHILDHOOD OBESITY: A LITERATURE REVIEW ON THE EFFICACY OF TRIPHALA CHURNA WITH HONEY

Saurabh Raosaheb Mhaske* and Ravindra Rajpal

ABSTRACT

The World Health Organization defines good health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease. This concept aligns with the Ayurvedic definition of Swasthya, emphasizing a balance of bodily functions, mental clarity, and spiritual satisfaction. Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine, stresses the importance of lifestyle choices and dietary habits in maintaining health and preventing diseases. In the context of childhood obesity, factors like altered feeding patterns, increased consumption of junk food, and sedentary lifestyles are significant contributors. Ancient Ayurvedic texts, such as those by Acharya Sushruta and Acharya Charaka, describe obesity (Sthaulya) as a condition of fat metabolism. These texts provide detailed interventions, including dietary changes, exercise, and detoxification procedures. Obesity, particularly in children, is a growing health concern globally. In Ayurveda, Sthaulya is considered a Medoroga, a disorder of fat tissue. Modern definitions, such as the Body Mass Index (BMI), are used to classify overweight and obesity in both adults and children. Children are considered overweight if their BMI falls between the 85th and 95th percentiles for their age and gender, and obese if it exceeds the 95th percentile. The review explores the historical and contemporary Ayurvedic perspectives on obesity, detailing the pathophysiology (Samprapti) of Sthaulya, its causes, and traditional management strategies. It also examines the role of Triphala Churna in weight management, digestive health, metabolism, and overall well-being. The review aims to provide insights into the potential benefits and safety of Triphala Churna with honey, offering a holistic approach to managing childhood obesity through Ayurvedic principles. The findings contribute to understanding the role of traditional Ayurvedic remedies in modern health challenges and underscore the importance of integrating ancient wisdom with contemporary health practices.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Swasthya, Sthaulya, childhood obesity, Medoroga, Triphala Churna, honey, traditional medicine, BMI, dietary interventions, lifestyle choices, fat metabolism, digestive health, metabolism, holistic health, ancient remedies, modern health challeng