5 Ayurvedic Herbs That Help You To Fight Obesity

We live in a time where pizzas and burgers seem far more appealing than the humble sabji-roti.

Cooking at home is often seen as a chore, and people frequently turn to cheesy burgers or instant noodles for comfort. Carrying a homemade tiffin to work feels outdated to many.

Weekend takeout has become a norm, and with most jobs requiring long hours of sitting at a desk, sedentary lifestyles are on the rise.

This combination of unhealthy eating habits and stressful living is taking a toll on health, with obesity becoming alarmingly common.

Obesity is now one of the most widespread chronic conditions affecting the current generation. A person is considered obese when their Body Mass Index (BMI) exceeds 30. BMI is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

India ranks third globally in the number of obese individuals, and the numbers continue to rise at a concerning pace. It’s a serious public health issue, particularly among the youth.

Poor diet choices, high stress levels, and inactive routines are the primary culprits behind this growing problem.

Obesity carries significant health risks. It often leads to high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, and increased cholesterol—factors that contribute to heart attacks. Additionally, obese individuals are more prone to sleep apnea, varicose veins, arthritis, and various skin conditions.

While several treatments for obesity are available today, Ayurveda offers a natural and time-tested alternative. It uses powerful herbs to combat obesity safely and effectively—without side effects.

Here are a few such herbs known for their anti-obesity benefits:

# Amla

Amla, often called a wonder herb, is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C. It's highly effective for weight loss, as it boosts metabolism and promotes fat burning. Amla also helps detoxify the digestive system by flushing out harmful toxins that can interfere with its function.

With its mild laxative properties, amla can also relieve constipation. You can easily incorporate it into your diet by consuming dried amla candy or drinking fresh amla juice—both readily available at Ayurvedic stores.

# Guggul

Guggul is a potent resin extract from the guggul tree, known for its cholesterol-lowering and fat-burning properties. It also has powerful anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects on the body.

For best results, guggul can be consumed in tablet form—typically 2-3 tablets daily—alongside triphala powder mixed in water. This natural combination is known to support healthy and sustained weight loss.

# Shilajit

Also known as asphaltum, Shilajit is rich in fulvic acid and offers a wide range of health benefits. In Ayurveda, it's revered for its ability to manage obesity, support brain health, prevent diabetes, cleanse the body, and even relieve asthma symptoms.

Studies have shown that regular intake of Shilajit with triphala for three months can lead to a noticeable reduction in waist and hip circumference. It also enhances metabolism and improves digestion. Simply dissolve Shilajit powder in water and consume it daily. Always ensure you use pure, high-quality Shilajit for maximum benefits.

# Triphala

Triphala, meaning "three fruits," is a blend of amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki. It’s packed with antioxidants and helps regulate cholesterol levels while thoroughly cleansing the body from within. Triphala accelerates digestion and removes toxins from the system.

The most common way to consume Triphala is by mixing the powder into warm water or herbal tea. While the taste may be bitter initially, it's easy to adapt to. If preferred, you can opt for Triphala tablets, which are a more palatable alternative.

# Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful herb for weight management. Loaded with curcumin, vitamins B and C, fibre, and essential minerals, it offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and thermogenic properties that aid fat reduction.

It prevents fat accumulation and helps shrink adipose tissues—the body’s fat storage units. The sulphur content in turmeric also inhibits fat deposition. Its thermogenic nature supports calorie burning.

You can include turmeric in your daily routine through supplements, turmeric tea, or turmeric milk. Taking 1-2 teaspoons of turmeric powder two to three times a day can significantly support your weight loss journey.