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Digestive Health • Ayurveda

Anorexia (Loss of Appetite) — Aruchi

Here “anorexia” means loss of desire to eat (not anorexia nervosa). In Ayurveda, aruchi follows weak agni (digestive fire) and ama (toxins) that blunt taste and appetite. Lifestyle, stress, and irregular meals commonly contribute.

Definition

Aruchi is a loss of appetite even when hungry, often with bad taste or reluctance to eat. It is distinct from anorexia nervosa, a psychiatric condition involving body-image disturbance and severe weight loss.

Causes

Disturbance of the three doshas (especially Kapha) weakens agni and forms ama that blocks GI channels. Common triggers:

  • Heavy, oily, sweet foods; frequent snacking; late-night meals
  • Sedentary routine; irregular meal timing
  • Stress, anxiety, low mood; eating in a noisy/disturbed atmosphere

Symptoms by Dosha

Vata: Astringent taste, chest discomfort, variable appetite.

Pitta: Sour/pungent taste, halitosis, burning in chest, intense thirst.

Kapha: Sweet/salty taste, sticky mouth, coated tongue, lethargy, excess saliva.

Ayurvedic Care

Strategy: clear ama → kindle agni → pacify involved doshas → support mind & routine.

Care typically begins with light, easily digestible meals; spices to spark digestion; and calming daily routine. Gentle movement and breath-work can help normalize appetite.

Diet & Lifestyle

  • Consider a light day (kitchari/porridge/broths) to digest ama.
  • Eat warm, freshly cooked food at fixed times; avoid grazing between meals.
  • Favour: cumin, coriander, fennel, ginger, black pepper (as tolerated).
  • Mealtime hygiene: quiet setting, no screens, mindful chewing.
  • Daily: 20–30 min walk; Pawanmuktasana; Bhramari (5–7 rounds).

Home Remedies

Pre-meal

Ginger–Lime Aperitif

15 min before meals: ¼ tsp fresh ginger juice + ¼ tsp lime juice + a pinch of rock salt.

Digestive

Deepana Spice Mix

Equal parts: dry ginger, black pepper, long pepper, ajwain, cumin, rock salt. Take ½ tsp with first bite.

Daily

Tongue Cleaning & Warm Water

Scrape tongue after brushing; sip warm water through the day to aid ama digestion.

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When to seek medical care

If loss of appetite is accompanied by any of the following, consult a physician promptly:

  • Unintentional weight loss, persistent vomiting, blood in stool/vomit
  • Fever, severe abdominal pain, jaundice, marked fatigue
  • Depressed mood, body-image concerns, food restriction (possible eating disorder)