Abstract

*Dr. O. P. Dwivedi, Dr. Jinesh Kumar Jain, Dr. Neeraj Khare, Dr. Pallavi Dwivedi

ABSTRACT

Metabolic disorders including obesity, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease have emerged as major global health challenges due to changing lifestyles, dietary patterns, sedentary behavior, and impaired metabolic functions. Ayurveda emphasizes the maintenance of metabolic equilibrium through proper functioning of Agni (digestive and metabolic fire), balance of Dosha, and elimination of accumulated metabolic toxins (Ama). Panchakarma, the classical Ayurvedic bio-purificatory therapy, is considered an important intervention for restoring physiological balance by eliminating vitiated Dosha, improving metabolic processes, and promoting health. The present review aims to critically evaluate the impact of Panchakarma procedures on metabolic health and assess available scientific evidence regarding their role in improving metabolic parameters. A comprehensive literature search was conducted through classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, along with electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and AYUSH Research Portal. Studies evaluating the effects of Panchakarma procedures including Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Udvartana, and associated Purvakarma therapies on parameters such as body weight, body mass index (BMI), lipid profile, blood glucose levels, insulin sensitivity, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress were reviewed. Available evidence suggests that Panchakarma interventions may contribute to improvement in metabolic functions through modulation of digestion, lipid metabolism, inflammatory pathways, gut microbiota, and endocrine regulation. However, current research is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneity of treatment protocols, and lack of standardized outcome measures. Panchakarma demonstrates promising potential as an integrative therapeutic approach for metabolic health management; however, further well-designed clinical trials with standardized protocols and objective biomarkers are required to establish its evidence-based role in the prevention and management of metabolic disorders.

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