Management of Sthoulya: A Case Report Abstract

Background: Sthoulya is an important metabolic disorder described in Ayurveda, characterized by excessive accumulation of Meda Dhatu and associated with impaired metabolic functions and reduced physical activity. It can be correlated conceptually with obesity, a major health concern associated with an increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular complications. Ayurvedic management emphasizes dietary regulation, lifestyle modification, physical activity, and appropriate therapeutic interventions aimed at reducing excessive Meda accumulation and restoring Dosha-Dhatu balance. Case Presentation: A 29-year-old female patient presented with a progressive increase in body weight over two years, accompanied by difficulty performing routine daily activities and a feeling of heaviness. Clinical and Ayurvedic assessments supported the diagnosis of Sthoulya. The patient received internal medications, including Amla juice, Decrin Plus tablets, and Chitrakadi Vati, along with Sarvanga Udwartana, Bashpa Sweda, Snehapana with Panchatikta Guggulu Ghrita, Sarvanga Abhyanga with Manjishtadi Taila, and Virechana using Trivrit Leha with Draksha Swarasa. Yoga and physiotherapy were also incorporated into the management plan. Results: Following treatment, body weight decreased from 91.3 kg to 86.5 kg, representing a reduction of 4.8 kg. Body mass index decreased from 36.6 kg/m² to 34.6 kg/m². Chest circumference reduced from 110 cm to 104 cm, waist circumference from 111 cm to 108 cm, and waist–hip ratio from 0.88 to 0.86. Reductions were also observed in mid-arm, mid-thigh, and mid-calf circumferences, although the magnitude of change varied across measurement sites. Conclusion: The observed changes in anthropometric parameters suggest a potential benefit of the multimodal Ayurvedic management approach in this patient with Sthoulya. However, as this is a single case without a control group, the findings cannot establish treatment efficacy or attribute the observed changes to any individual intervention. Further systematic studies with standardized outcome measures and longer follow-up are required to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this approach.