Integrating Ayurveda and Modern Medicine in the Management of Obesity: Challenges and Opportunities.

Bargale Sushant Sukumar¹, Aiswarya Balagopal², Shashirekha H K³, Neha Gadgil⁴, Akshar Kulkarni⁵, Shipra⁶

¹Department of Swasthavritta and Yoga, Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College of Ayurveda and Hospital, Hassan, Karnataka, India.
²Department of Swasthavritta and Yoga, K V G Ayurveda Medical College, Sullia, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, India.
³Department of Samhita Sanskrit, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
⁴Department of Kriya Sharir, Sri Lal Bahadur Shastri Smarak Rajakiya Ayurvedic Mahavidyalaya, Handia, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India.
⁵Department of Samhita Siddhanta, Parul Institute of Ayurved, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
⁶Department of Prasuti Tantra and Striroga, Sri Lal Bahadur Shastri Smarak Rajakiya Ayurvedic Mahavidyalaya, Handia, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India

Received: 11^th Aug, 2025; Revised: 10^th Sep 2025; Accepted: 7^th Nov, 2025; Available Online: 30^th Nov, 2025

ABSTRACT

This review explores the potential and challenges of integrating Ayurvedic and modern medical approaches in managing obesity. Modern medicine views obesity through metabolic and lifestyle factors, while Ayurveda interprets it as an imbalance of doshas, particularly Kapha, and the accumulation of Ama (toxins). Ayurvedic principles offer a unique framework for managing obesity through detoxification (Panchakarma), dietary guidelines (PathyaApathya), lifestyle modifications (Dinacharya), and Rasayana (rejuvenation) therapy. Herbs like Guggulu, Garcinia cambogia, Amalaki, and Haritaki show promise in managing obesity, but require rigorous scientific validation. Modern medical approaches include pharmacological treatments, surgical interventions, and behavioral modifications, which are effective but come with challenges. Integrating Ayurveda with modern medicine can lead to holistic care, enhanced treatment options, and personalized interventions, though scientific validation, regulatory compliance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and education are necessary for successful integration. The review highlights the need for ongoing research, collaboration, and education to leverage the strengths of both systems, fostering innovative therapies, interdisciplinary partnerships, training initiatives, and supportive health policies for a comprehensive approach to obesity management.

Keywords: Obesity Management, Ayurvedic Medicine, Modern Medicine, Integrative Medicine, Doshas and Panchakarma

How to cite this article: Bargale SS, Balagopal A, Shashirekha HK, Gadgil N, Kulkarni A, Shipra, Integrating Ayurveda and Modern Medicine in the Management of Obesity: Challenges and Opportunities. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2025;15(4): 1731-1740, DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.15.4.24