ROLE OF MUSTA ARAGWADHADI KASHYA IN CHILDHOOD NUTRITIONAL OBESITY

Introduction: Childhood nutritional obesity is a growing global health challenge associated with lifestyle, dietary habits, and metabolic imbalance. In Ayurveda, Sthaulya (obesity) is described as a Santarpanajanya Vyadhi, caused by overnutrition and derangement of Kapha Dosha, Medo Dhatu and Agni. Musta Aragwadhadi Kashya, a classical Ayurvedic formulation, possesses Lekhana (scraping), Medohara (anti-obesity), and Agnideepana (digestive fire–enhancing) properties, making it potentially beneficial in managing nutritional obesity in children. Method: This review compiles and analyzes information from classical Ayurvedic texts, pharmacological studies, and contemporary research databases to evaluate the therapeutic relevance, pharmacodynamic actions, and possible biomedical correlations of Musta Aragwadhadi Kashya in the context of childhood nutritional obesity. Literature sources were reviewed for data on the formulation’s ingredients, pharmacological activities, and experimental or clinical evidence related to obesity and metabolism. Result: The ingredients, Musta (Cyperus rotundus) and Aragwadha (Cassia fistula), possess digestive, detoxifying, antioxidant, and lipid-lowering properties. Evidence suggests they enhance Agni, reduce Medodhatvagni Mandya (sluggish fat metabolism), and improve lipid utilization. Studies on similar herbal formulations report improved body weight and lipid profiles without adverse effects. Discussion: The multi-targeted actions of Musta Aragwadhadi Kashya align with both Ayurvedic and modern concepts of obesity management. Conclusion: Musta Aragwadhadi Kashya demonstrates promising potential as an Ayurvedic intervention for childhood nutritional obesity. Its pharmacological profile supports the classical Ayurvedic rationale for its use in Sthaulya management.