Gaining weight naturally can be challenging, especially when conventional diets fail to deliver results. According to Ayurveda, being underweight often arises due to Vata imbalance, weak digestion (Mandagni), poor nutrient absorption, stress, hormonal imbalance, or irregular lifestyle habits. Ayurvedic Treatment for Weight Gain focuses on identifying these root causes and restoring balance.
Ayurveda focuses on treating the root cause rather than just the symptoms, aiming for safe, natural, and long-term healthy weight gain. Its holistic approach combines diet, herbs, therapies, lifestyle adjustments, and rejuvenation techniques tailored to your unique body constitution (Prakriti).
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Content reviewed by qualified Ayurvedic physician Dr. Shree Lakshmi
🔹 Understanding Underweight in Ayurveda
Ayurveda links body weight to the balance of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Underweight issues usually indicate a Vata imbalance, characterised by:
⚡ Rapid metabolism
🌬 Restlessness and anxiety
🍽 Poor appetite
💧 Dry skin and hair
⏰ Irregular eating patterns
Other contributing factors include stress, hormonal imbalance, weak digestion, nutrient deficiencies, genetic predisposition, or thyroid/hormonal issues. These factors are critical when planning Ayurvedic Treatment for Weight Gain.
🔹 Ayurvedic Causes of Low Body Weight
🔥 Weak digestive fire (Mandagni) → poor nutrient absorption
🌪 High Vata dosha → dryness, irregular appetite
😰 Chronic stress or anxiety → affects metabolism
🛌 Inadequate sleep
🏃 Excessive physical activity
🧬 Genetic factors
Note: Pitta imbalance (stress-related weight loss) or Kapha deficiency (difficulty gaining muscle mass) may also contribute. A personalized assessment is essential for effective Ayurvedic Treatment for Weight Gain.
🔹 Ayurvedic Remedies for Healthy Weight Gain
Healthy Weight Gain
1️⃣ Improve Digestive Fire (Agni Deepana)
Strong digestion is crucial for nutrient absorption and healthy weight gain:
🥤 Drink warm water throughout the day
🫚 Ginger + rock salt before meals
🌿 Digestive spices: cumin, ajwain, black pepper, hing
🍵 Herbal teas: ginger, cinnamon, fennel
2️⃣ Eat Vata-Pacifying, Nourishing Foods
🧈 Healthy fats: ghee, sesame oil, cow’s milk
🥛 Protein-rich foods: paneer, lentils, mung beans, chickpeas
🌾 Whole grains: rice, wheat, barley, millet
🌰 Dry fruits: almonds, walnuts, raisins, dates
🍌 Sweet fruits: banana, mango, grapes, chikoo
🥛 Warm milk + ghee at night for tissue nourishment
3️⃣ Maintain a Regular Eating Schedule
⏰ 3 main meals + 2 small snacks daily
❌ Avoid skipping meals
🕒 Eat a heavy lunch, lighter dinner, and avoid late-night eating
4️⃣ Include Healthy Fats
1–2 tsp cow ghee in meals
Warm milk with ghee, turmeric, or Ashwagandha
Use cold-pressed oils for cooking
5️⃣ Rest and Lifestyle
🛏 Sleep 7–8 hours daily
🧘 Avoid over-exercising; practice gentle yoga
🧘♂️ Reduce stress via meditation, pranayama (Anulom Vilom), and daily grounding routines
🚶 Gentle walks to stimulate circulation and digestion
❄️ Avoid cold, raw, or refrigerated foods that aggravate Vata
🔹 Ayurvedic Therapies for Weight Gain
💆 Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Improves circulation, calms Vata, strengthens muscles.
🌿 Shirodhara: Reduces stress, improves sleep, and enhances appetite.
♨️ Swedana (Steam Therapy): Opens channels (Srotas), improves metabolism, and nourishes tissues.
💧 Basti (Medicated Enema): Balances Vata, strengthens digestion, and nourishes lower body tissues.
🧴 Rasayana Therapy: Rejuvenates all seven Dhatus (tissues), improves immunity, and promotes overall vitality.
🍲Navarakizhi: Warm rice boluses soaked in herbal decoctions massaged over the body. Deeply nourishes tissues, enhances muscle mass, reduces Vata, and promotes healthy weight gain. Recommended 2–3 times per week under professional supervision.
⚠️ Advanced Option: Pizhichil (oil dripping massage) may be used in chronic Vata deficiency or severe underweight, only under expert guidance.
Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician before undergoing therapies.
🔹 Effective Ayurvedic Herbs & Medicines for Weight Gain
| 🌱 Herb/Medicine | ✨ Benefits |
|---|---|
| Ashwagandha | Muscle growth, reduces stress, boosts stamina |
| Shatavari | Improves appetite, nutrient absorption, and hormonal balance |
| Yashtimadhu | Nourishes tissues, improves digestion |
| Bala | Strengthens muscles and tissues |
| Gokshura | Increases stamina, supports muscle building |
| Chyawanprash | Rasayana for immunity and healthy weight gain |
| Pippali | Boosts digestion and metabolism |
| Guduchi | Enhances immunity and rejuvenation |
| Vidari | Muscle-building Rasayana for strength and vitality |
| Safed Musli | Stamina, strength, and tissue nourishment |
| Kaunch Beej | Supports muscle growth, hormone balance, and energy |
| Shilajit | Rejuvenating Rasayana for stamina and overall body nourishment |
| Mahayograj Guggulu | Strengthens muscles, supports metabolic balance, reduces Vata |
| Navaka Churna | Digestive and tissue-nourishing formulation for appetite and nutrient assimilation |
| Ksheerabala Taila | Nourishing oil for Abhyanga, reduces Vata-related weakness |
| Godanti Bhasma (under supervision) | Rejuvenates tissues, supports calcium metabolism and strength |
Herbs and medicines should be prescribed by a qualified Ayurvedic doctor based on dosha, age, and health condition.
🔹 Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips
🧘 Yoga: Vajrasana, Bhujangasana, Tadasana, Setu Bandhasana
⏰ Maintain consistent meal timings
🧘♀️ Practice meditation and deep breathing to reduce stress
🛁 Morning oil massage (Abhyanga) for Vata pacification
❄️ Avoid cold, raw, or processed foods
🚶 Gentle walks and light exercise for circulation without Vata aggravation
🔹 Simple Home Remedies for Weight Gain
🍌 Banana + ghee: Twice daily for nourishment
🥛 Warm milk + Ashwagandha + jaggery: Improves sleep & appetite
🌿 Soaked raisins & dates in water: Morning energy booster
🌰 Ghee-roasted dry fruits: A Healthy snack for muscle building
🍛 Mung dal khichdi with ghee: Easily digestible, nourishing meal
🌟 Why Choose Weight Gain Ayurvedic Treatment?
Ayurveda promotes natural, sustainable, long-term healthy weight gain without harmful side effects. Benefits include:
🍲 Improved digestion and nutrient absorption
🛡 Strengthened immunity
💪 Natural muscle development
🧘 Reduced stress and anxiety
🌱 Holistic approach combining diet, herbs, therapies, and lifestyle
This makes Ayurvedic Treatment for Weight Gain a reliable and natural choice.
🌟 FAQs About Ayurvedic Weight Gain Treatment
How long does it take to gain weight with Ayurveda?
2–3 months with consistent treatment, diet, and lifestyle changes.
Can underweight children take Ayurvedic treatment?
Yes, under pediatric Ayurvedic supervision.
Are there side effects of Ayurvedic herbs for weight gain?
Minimal when taken under a doctor’s guidance. Avoid self-medication.
Which yoga poses help in gaining weight?
Vajrasana, Bhujangasana, Tadasana, Setu Bandhasana
Can vegetarians gain weight with Ayurveda?
Absolutely! Plant-based proteins, dairy, nuts, and grains are recommended.
How often should therapies like Abhyanga, Navarakizhi, or Basti be done?
2–3 times a week, as recommended by a physician.
Can Ayurveda help with stress-related or hormonal weight loss?
Yes. Stress-reducing therapies and Rasayana herbs restore appetite and metabolism.
Are Ayurvedic herbs safe for long-term use?
Yes, under a qualified doctor’s supervision.
Is Ayurveda better than modern weight-gain supplements?
Ayurveda offers natural, long-term results focusing on overall health.
Can I combine Ayurveda with gym workouts?
Moderation is key to avoiding Vata aggravation.
Are Ayurvedic treatments safe during pregnancy or lactation?
Some are safe; always consult a doctor first.
🌟 Patient Testimonial
“After struggling with underweight issues for years, I consulted Dr Shreya at Adyant Ayurveda Bannerghatta Road. With her guidance on diet, therapies, and herbal supplements, I gained a healthy weight and felt more energetic within months. Her personalised approach and care are remarkable!”
🔹 Conclusion
Ayurveda offers a holistic, safe, and effective approach to healthy weight gain. By strengthening digestion, nourishing tissues, balancing doshas, and integrating diet, herbs, therapies, and lifestyle practices, Ayurveda ensures long-lasting, natural, and sustainable results. Consistency, personalised guidance, and supervision by a qualified Ayurvedic physician are key to achieving improved overall health and natural weight gain.
Author & Reviewer
Author: Dr Sumanana
Reviewer: Dr Shree Lakshmi
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician before starting any treatment or herbal supplements, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions, are pregnant, or are on medication.
