Published Paper Details:

ABSTRACT: Obesity is a major metabolic disorder of the modern era, contributing significantly to global morbidity and mortality. In Ayurveda, obesity is described as sthoulya or medov?uddhi, arising from derangement of meda dhatu and dysfunction of medovaha srotas. An integrative understanding of these classical concepts alongside modern biomedical knowledge provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating obesity. Objective: To analyze the Ayurvedic concepts of meda dhatu, medovaha srotas, and their moola sthanas in correlation with contemporary anatomical, physiological, and metabolic insights relevant to obesity. Methods: A conceptual and analytical review of classical Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hrudaya, and Ashtanga Sangraha was conducted and correlated with modern literature on lipid metabolism, adipose tissue physiology, and obesity. Results & Conclusion: Meda dhatu exhibits structural, metabolic, and endocrine functions comparable to modern adipose tissue and circulating lipids. Medovaha Srotas correspond to lymphatic pathways, intestinal lacteals, and vascular networks supplying visceral fat. The moola sthanas - Vrukka, Vapavahana, and Ka?i - show strong anatomical relevance to renal lipid metabolism, omental fat activity, and central adiposity. The samprapti of sthoulya, characterized by agnimandya, ama, srotorodha, and medodhatvagni mandya, closely parallels modern mechanisms such as insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, visceral adiposity, and hormonal dysregulation. Thus ayurvedic concepts of Meda and Medovaha Srotas align closely with contemporary understanding of obesity. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach emphasizing dietary regulation, lifestyle modification, metabolic correction, highlighting its relevance in modern healthcare.