Obesity is a complex, chronic disease characterized by excessive fat accumulation that poses a significant risk to health.

Obesity is a complex, chronic disease characterized by excessive fat accumulation that poses a significant risk to health. It is not merely considered a cosmetic issue but a serious medical condition that can lead to numerous complications ranging from metabolic diseases to cardiovascular problems and even certain cancers. Obesity is defined using body mass index(BMI) which is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kg by the square of his height in meters. It occurs when there is a chronic imbalance between calorie intake and energy expenditure leading to excess energy stored as fat. However following factors are highly responsible for causing excess body fat.
1. Genetics
Some individuals are predisposed to obesity due to their genetic makeup. Certain genes may affect appetite regulation, fat storage and how the energy is utilized by the body .
2. Hormones
Like leptin and ghrelin, play a significant role in appetite control. Leptin, produced by fat cells signals the brain to reduce hunger while Ghrelin produced in the stomach, stimulates appetite.
3. Environment
The modern lifestyle characterized by high calorie and low nutritional food,              sedentary habits contribute significantly to obesity.
4. Behaviour
Stress, overeating and physical inactivity play key role in developing this condition.
In ayurveda, Medoroga is considered as the condition of excessive body fat caused by the imbalance of the kapha dosha and mandagni.
There are numerous herbs mentioned in ayurvedic texts to manage the overweight.
1.    Guggul known for its fat burning properties, is used to support weight loss.
2.    Triphala helps improving body metabolism.
3.    Vrikshamla reduces fat accumulation and suppresses appetite.
4.    Mustak balances digestion and promotes fat metabolism.
5.    Shilajit boosts metabolism and provides energy.
6.    Vijaysaar regulates fat metabolism and manages blood sugar level.
7.    Haldi can interfere with adipogenesis and thus prevents excess fat deposited in the body.
8.    Trikatu an ayurvedic formulation that combines the goodness of long pepper, black pepper and ginger is very beneficial remedy for sluggish metabolism and obesity.
Ayurvedic Drinks For Belly Fat 
1. Jeera Water
Soak a teaspoon of jeera seeds in one glass of water overnight. Boil the water in the morning and drink on an empty stomach.
2. Ginger Tea
Boil one teaspoon paste of fresh ginger in one glass water. Add one teaspoon honey and drink.
3. Ajwain Water
Soak a teaspoon of ajwain seeds in one glass of water overnight. Boil in the morning and consume.
4. Cinnamon Tea
Boil one inch cinnamon stick along with one crushed pod of black cardamom in water for few minutes. Strain and drink without adding sugar.
5. Triphala Drink
Soak 15 gm dry coarse triphala in one glass water. Boil for 10 minutes and turn off the gas. Drink it in early morning after filtering.
6. Methi Drink
Soak one teaspoon methi seeds in one cup water overnight and boil in the morning. Strain and drink warm.
7. Flax Seeds
Add one teaspoon of flax seeds to one glass of water. Boil for 5 minutes, strain and drink  warm water.
8. Star Anisa
Add 4-5 pods of star anisa and mint leaves in a bowl and pour one glass of water over it. Keep it for 4-5 hours ,then boil and  drink.
9. Aloe Vera
Take fresh aloe vera pulpy leaf and separate the white clear fleshy part. Blend it and drink . Water can be added to it.
10.    Green tea
Take half spoon tea leaves and one cup boiling water. Steep the leaves in water for 10-15 minutes and drink.
Obesity being a complex health issue requires the timely management with herbs, modified diet and regular exercise. Herbs play a very important role by reducing appetite, boosting metabolism, relieving stress and improving insulin sensitivity. 
Associate Professor,
Department of Shalakya Tantra,
Dayanand Ayurvedic College,  Jalandhar.
Mob.: 79 7319 7093