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Vaidyaratnam Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine

Guru Cha Atarpana: A Classical Ayurvedic Paradigm for Sthoulya (Obesity) Management

Volume 8, Issue 1 • 2026
Review Article

Mahesh M P1, Meera Bhattathiripad2, Adithyan M D3

  1. Department of Roganidana, K. J. Institute of Ayurveda & Research, India
  2. Baroda Ayur Bhavan & Panchakarma Centre, India
  3. Department of Samhita Siddhanta, Parul Institute of Ayurveda and Research, India
Received: 2025-07-28
Accepted: 2026-03-23
Published: 2026-07-21

Abstract

Sthoulya (obesity) is one of the major lifestyle disorders of the present era and is primarily considered a Santarpanajanya Vyadhi in Ayurveda. Excessive accumulation of Meda and Kapha not only affects physical appearance but also predisposes an individual to several metabolic disorders. Although Atarpana Chikitsa is advocated in the management of Sthoulya, the use of conventional Laghu Atarpana may not be appropriate in all patients, especially those possessing Tikshnagni. In such situations, the concept of Guru cha Atarpana offers a unique therapeutic approach.Objective of the study is to review the concept of Guru cha Atarpana and to understand its role in the prevention and management of Sthoulya and other Kapha-Meda predominant disorders. Relevant references pertaining to Guru Guna, Atarpana, and Sthoulya were collected from classical Ayurvedic texts and analyzed critically. The available literary evidence was reviewed to understand the therapeutic basis and clinical applicability of Guru cha Atarpana. Guru cha Atarpana employs substances that are heavy in nature but capable of reducing excess Kapha and Meda. The use of naturally Guru substances such as Yava, as well as appropriate Samskara of dravyas, helps in achieving depletion without causing excessive tissue nourishment. This approach prolongs gastric emptying, delays the onset of hunger, promotes early satiety, and supports dietary discipline. Simultaneously, it helps maintain Agni, prevents Vata aggravation, and effectively interrupts the Kapha-Medo Avarana Samprapti involved in Sthoulya. The principles of this treatment can also be extended to conditions such as Prameha, Urustambha, and Vatarakta. Guru cha Atarpana represents a distinctive and practical Ayurvedic treatment strategy for Sthoulya, particularly in individuals with strong digestive power. By providing satiety while restricting excessive nourishment, it addresses the fundamental pathology of Kapha-Meda disorders and offers a sustainable approach for their long-term management and prevention.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Guru cha Atarpana, Sthoulya, Obesity, Atarpana, Guru Guna, Agni.

 

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