How Can You Gain Weight With Ayurvedic Medicine?

Ayurveda is a holistic healing system that originated in India approximately 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda, which translates from Sanskrit as "life knowledge" or the "science of longevity," uses a combination of dietary guidelines, herbal remedies and practices such as yoga and meditation to promote the proper balance of energy in the body. According to Ayurveda, imbalances in energy are the root of disease and discomfort. Ayurvedic treatments may help you gain weight if you are underweight, which can impair your immune system and increase your risk of bone and joint problems, reports Ayurveda For You.

Spoonfuls of Aruveydic warming spices. (Image: Zoonar RF/Zoonar/Getty Images)

Step 1

Determine your dominant dosha. Ayurvedic philosophy teaches that each individual possesses three types of energy known as doshas. These doshas--known as vata, pitta and kapha--govern all bodily functions and are present in each person in a unique blend. Your dominant dosha determines your personalized prescription for optimum health. According to Holistic-Online, people with a dominant vata dosha often have difficultly absorbing nutrients and may be prone to underweight.

Step 2

Follow the recommended diet for your dominant dosha. The Chopra Center recommends that vata types eat foods that are heavy and warm. You may eat large quantities, but do not overeat. You may also cook with fats and oils, which will help balance your digestive system. Use extra virgin olive oil or ghee--a clarified butter oil. Sweets and richer foods may also help you gain weight.

Step 3

Maintain a regular eating schedule. According to the Chopra Center, vata types are prone to skipping meals, which, because of their high metabolism, can lead to excessive weight loss. To maintain your ideal weight, eat your meals at the same time every day.

Step 4

Gain weight slowly. Overeating can place excessive strain on the digestive system. Ayurvedic philosophy recommends eating the heaviest meal of the day for lunch. Chew food thoroughly to encourage proper digestion. As you build your appetite, you can add snacks in between meals, but do not force yourself to eat when you are not hungry.

Step 5

Exercise regularly to improve circulation, digestion and elimination. Holistic-Online.com recommends regular and moderate activity for vata types such as yoga, walking, tai chi and swimming. Vata types can tire easily, so do not push yourself too hard, and get plenty of rest. The Chopra Center recommends going to bed by 10 pm and waking up at 6 am.