Background: Obesity has become a major global health crisis, significantly increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers, while placing a considerable economic burden on healthcare systems. Its prevalence has more than tripled between 1975 and 2022. With growing concerns over the side effects of synthetic anti-obesity drugs, traditional medicinal herbs are gaining attention for their safer and multi-targeted therapeutic potential. Aim: This review aims to evaluate the efficacy of Ayurvedic herbs in obesity management by examining their roles in modulating key molecular mechanisms associated with lipid metabolism. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted focusing on anti-obesity herbs mentioned in the "Sthoulya" chapter of the classical Ayurvedic text Chakradatta. Databases such as PubMed were searched using keywords and MeSH terms including “Ayurvedic herbs” and “anti-obesity.” Studies published between 2007 and 2024 were screened for in vivo and in vitro evidence related to the mechanisms of action of these herbs. Clinical trials, case studies, and articles with methodological limitations were excluded. Results: This study explores the impact of 34 Ayurvedic herbs on lipid metabolism and their potential in managing obesity. The herbs evaluated include Embelia ribes, Hordeum vulgare, Phyllanthus emblica, Cyperus rotundus, Piper longum, Aegle marmelos, Premna Serratifolia, Terminalia bellirica, Terminalia chebula, Plumbago zeylanica, Adhatoda zeylanica, Ziziphus mauritiana, Acorus calamus, Alstonia scholaris, Aconitum heterophyllum, Azadirachta indica, Citrullus colocynthis, Saussurea lappa, Brassica campestris, Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa, Commiphora wightii, Acacia catechu, Piper nigrum, Cuminum cyminum, Moringa oleifera, Picrorhiza kurroa, Coriandrum sativum, Mangifera indica, Punica granatum, Foeniculum vulgare, Tinospora cordifolia, Elettaria cardamomum, Juniperus communis. These herbs demonstrate a wide range of mechanisms in lipid metabolism regulation, such as inhibiting lipogenesis, enhancing lipolysis, regulating appetite, promoting thermogenesis, and improving fat oxidation. Their multi-targeted actions highlight their potential as effective natural agents in the management of obesity. Conclusion: Ayurvedic herbs offer promising multi-targeted approaches for managing obesity. Further scientific validation and clinical studies are essential to establish their efficacy and integrate them into modern therapeutic frameworks.
