Evaluating Ayurvedic Interventions for Obesity Management: A Comparative Study of Shankha Prakshalana and Udvartana Therapies in Male Patients with Sthaulya

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a multifactorial condition that leads to metabolic disturbances and increases the risk of non-communicable diseases. Traditional Ayurvedic interventions such as Shankha Prakshalana and Udvartana have been used as non-pharmacological approaches to manage obesity. This case series evaluates the efficacy of these therapies in 10 patients diagnosed with Sthaulya (obesity).

Methods: A total of 10 male patients aged between 20-40 years with BMI > 25 kg/m² were included in this case series. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A (n=5) underwent Shankha Prakshalana, and Group B (n=5) received Udvartana with Triphala Churna. Clinical and anthropometric parameters such as weight, BMI, waist circumference, lipid profile, and fasting blood sugar were recorded at baseline and post-treatment (8 weeks). Subjective parameters such as fatigue, excessive hunger, thirst, and difficulty in daily activities were also assessed.

Results: Both interventions resulted in significant reductions in weight and BMI. Group A (Shankha Prakshalana) showed a mean weight reduction of 5.4 kg compared to 3.8 kg in Group B (Udvartana). BMI reduction was also greater in Group A (mean decrease of 2.1 kg/m²) than in Group B (1.5 kg/m²). Lipid profiles improved in both groups, with a greater reduction in total cholesterol and triglycerides in Group A. Subjective improvements were observed in energy levels, physical activity, and reduced excessive hunger and thirst.

Conclusion: Both Shankha Prakshalana and Udvartana showed effectiveness in obesity management. However, Shankha Prakshalana demonstrated superior results in weight reduction, BMI reduction, and metabolic improvements. Further randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are warranted to validate these findings.