A Review on Childhood Obesity Management by Siddha Podi Thimirthal Therapy

Abstract

Childhood obesity is a growing concern worldwide, linked to unhealthy diet and sedentary habits. In Siddha medicine, obesity is known as "Athithoola Noi"and in children as "Balar Athithoola Noi". The condition arises due to deranged "lyam (Kapham)" and weak "Agni (digestive fire). Management includes internal medicines, external therapies, and lifestyle regulation. One such external therapy, "Podi Thimirthal" (powder massage). It uses dry herbal powders with scraping and fat-reducing properties, applied through vigorous upward massage. This therapy improves circulation, metabolism, and lymphatic drainage, thereby reducing excess fat and toxins.