What Is Bulimia Nervosa and How Can Ayurveda Help in Managing Eating Disorders?

Question

I’ve been struggling with disordered eating for a while now, and after a recent visit to a therapist, I was diagnosed with bulimia nervosa. I often feel the urge to overeat, followed by the need to purge to avoid gaining weight. This cycle has been affecting my physical and emotional health for months, and I’m really struggling to break the pattern. The therapist suggested therapy and some lifestyle changes, but I also want to understand if Ayurveda can offer any natural remedies to help me manage the emotional and physical aspects of bulimia nervosa.

I’ve heard that Ayurveda views eating disorders like bulimia nervosa as an imbalance of the mind and body, and I’m curious to know what Ayurvedic treatments could help restore that balance. Can Ayurveda help with emotional triggers for bulimia nervosa, such as stress, anxiety, or body image issues? I’ve read that herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi are helpful for reducing stress and balancing the nervous system—could they help me manage the emotional aspects of bulimia nervosa?

Additionally, I’m wondering if Ayurveda has dietary recommendations for someone recovering from bulimia nervosa. Could certain foods or meals be incorporated into my routine to help restore balance and avoid triggering the urge to binge or purge?

Has anyone here experienced bulimia nervosa and found healing through Ayurvedic practices or herbs? What worked for you in improving emotional balance and breaking the cycle of disordered eating?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Bulimia nervosa, from an Ayurvedic perspective, is linked to an imbalance in Vata and Pitta doshas, affecting both the mind and digestion. Emotional instability, stress, and self-image concerns aggravate Vata, while compulsive behavior and purging increase Pitta, leading to digestive distress and mental unrest. Ashwagandha and Brahmi can help calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and support emotional resilience. Shatavari nourishes the body, stabilizes hormones, and helps rebuild strength.

A Sattvic diet with warm, grounding, and nourishing foods like ghee, moong dal, cooked vegetables, dates, and nuts can help restore balance and prevent erratic cravings. Avoid processed foods, excessive caffeine, and extreme fasting, as they aggravate Vata and trigger binge-purge cycles. Self-care rituals like Abhyanga (warm oil massage with sesame oil) can reduce anxiety and promote body acceptance. Pranayama (Nadi Shodhana, Bhramari) and meditation help regulate emotions, while gentle yoga (child’s pose, forward bends) can provide a sense of grounding. Ayurveda encourages mindful eating, self-compassion, and emotional balance to break the cycle of disordered eating, complementing therapy for deeper healing. Seeking support from a therapist along with Ayurvedic practices can create a holistic path to recovery.

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