A CONCEPTUAL REVIEW OF ATISTHAULYA IN AYURVEDA WITH REFERENCE TO LIFESTYLE DISORDERS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/prl.ijayush.v15i06%20(June).2131Keywords:
Atisthaulya, Medo Dhatu, Atiagni, Lifestyle Disorders, Obesity, Santarpanajanya VyadhiAbstract
Background Atisthaulya (obesity) is described in Ayurveda as a Santarpanajanya Vyadhi, arising due to excessive nourishment and improper lifestyle practices. In the present era, lifestyle disorders such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome are increasing rapidly due to sedentary habits, faulty diet, and psychological stress. Ayurveda provides a detailed understanding of Atisthaulya through concepts like Medo Dhatu Vriddhi, Atiagni, and Srotorodha, which closely resemble modern metabolic disturbances. Aim
To explore the conceptual understanding of Atisthaulya in Ayurveda and correlate it with modern lifestyle disorders. Objectives To describe the Ayurvedic concept of Atisthaulya. To analyze etiological factors (Nidana) and pathogenesis (Samprapti). To correlate Atisthaulya with modern lifestyle disorders. To highlight preventive and therapeutic approaches in Ayurveda Materials and Methods This is a conceptual and literary review based on classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, along with relevant modern medical literature on obesity and lifestyle disorders. Data were collected, analyzed, and interpreted to establish Ayurvedic and modern correlations. Results
Atisthaulya is primarily caused by excessive intake of Guru, Snigdha, Madhura Ahara, lack of physical activity, and psychological factors. These lead to Atiagni and accumulation of Meda Dhatu, resulting in Srotorodha and imbalance of Vata. The condition shows strong similarity with modern obesity and associated metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Ayurveda emphasizes Nidana Parivarjana, Langhana, Lekhana, and lifestyle modification as key management principles. Conclusion
Atisthaulya is a significant metabolic disorder described in Ayurveda with a well-defined etiopathogenesis and management strategy. Its strong correlation with modern lifestyle disorders highlights the relevance of Ayurvedic principles in prevention and management through dietary regulation, physical activity, and holistic interventions.
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