ABSTRACT
The liver is the largest internal organ of the human body that serves as a vital biochemical powerhouse responsible for over 500 essential functions such as metabolism, detoxification, protein synthesis and bile secretion. However, when it is continuously exposed to harmful or chronic disease progressive fibrosis sets in leading to the replacement of healthy liver tissue with nodular scar formations that are called liver cirrhosis. Let's discuss it briefly.
INTRODUCTION
Liver cirrhosis is a progressive and irreversible condition in which fibrosis and architectural destruction of hepatic tissue happens by leading to compromised liver function. It is the final stage of chronic liver disease, resulting from sustained hepatocellular injury. While in ayurveda it is systemic imbalance of Doshas mainly Pitta, affecting Rakta Dhatu (blood tissue) and Meda Dhatu (Adipose tissue).
CAUSES
- Chronic alcohol consumption (Atimadya Sevan)
- Viral infections – Hepatitis B and C
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Genetic and metabolic disorders
- Chronic biliary obstruction
SIGN & SYMPTOMS
- Fatigue and generalized weakness
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes
- Abdominal distension due to fluid accumulation (Ascites)
- Enlargement of the spleen (Splenomegaly)
- Swelling in the lower limbs (Pedal edema)
- Frequently bruising and bleeding
- Dark urine
- Severe constipation
- Severe itching
DIAGNOSIS
- CBC (Complete Blood Test)
- LFT (Liver function test)
- Viral markers
- USG (Ultrasonography)
- Fibroscan
- Liver biopsy
MODERN TREATMENT
- Antiviral medications
- Corticosteroids
- Immunosuppressants
- Supportive Therapy
- Liver Transplantation
AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW
In Ayurveda liver is described under Yakrit that is situated in the Amashaya region (upper abdomen) which plays a vital role in Raktoutpatti (formation of blood). When the balance between Doshas, Dhatus (Tissue) and Agni (Digestive fire) is disturbed the liver’s natural regenerative capacity diminishes, resulting in chronic pathway to liver cirrhosis and it closely related to -
- Yakrit-Pliha Vriddhi: Enlargement of the liver and spleen.
- Kumbhakamala: Advanced jaundice often accompanied by ascites.
- Halimaka: Greenish discoloration of the body resulting from vitiation of Pitta and Kapha.
- Udara Roga: Abdominal distension due to accumulation of fluid.
NIDANA (CAUSATIVE FACTORS)
Excessive consumption of alcohol (Madyapana), Intake of heavy, oily, sour, and salty foods (Guru, Amla, Lavana Rasa), Suppression of natural urges (Vega Dharana), Emotional disturbances such as anger, stress, or mental strain (Manasika Hetu) , Chronic infections or metabolic disorders, Incompatible food combinations (Viruddha Ahara), Exposure to toxins or chemicals (Vishasevana).
DOSHA INVOLVEMENT
Predominant Pitta Dosha aggravation leading to Rakta Dushti (vitiation of blood). Secondary involvement of Kapha, contributing to fibrosis, heaviness, and sluggishness. Subsequent Vata aggravation causes tissue depletion (Kshaya) and dryness.
DHATU AND STROTAS AFFECTED
Rasa (blood plasma), Rakta (blood tissue), and Mamsa Dhatu (muscular tissue) become vitiated. Obstruction occurs in Raktavaha and Annavaha Srotas (blood and digestive channels) .This leads to Yakrit-Pliha Vriddhi (enlargement of liver and spleen),Udara Roga, and fluid accumulation in the abdomen (Jalodara).
AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT
- Nidana Parivarjana (Avoidance of Causative Factors) - Avoiding alcohol, heavy, oily, spicy food and emotional stress. A light, easily digestible, Pitta balancing diet is recommended.
- Shodhana Chikitsa (Purification Therapy)
- Virechana (Purgation): The best therapy for Pittaja Yakrit Vikara (Pitta dominating Liver disease).
- Basti (Medicated enema): Useful when vata is involved in later stages.
- Raktamokshana (Bloodletting): Used in cases of Raktdushti (Blood vitiation).
- Shamana Chikitsa
- Bhumiamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri): acts as a hepatoprotective and has antiviral action.
- Katuki (Picrorhiza kurrooa): Potent Pitta Shamak, enhances bile flow, reduces inflammation, and detoxifies the liver.
- Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata): Andrographolide aids in hepatocyte regeneration.
- Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa): Diuretic and anti-inflammatory, reduces ascites (Jalodara).
- Daruharidra (Berberis aristata): Contains berberine, acts as antioxidant and bile stimulant.
- Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Acts as Rasayana and immunomodulator, protecting hepatocytes.
- Rasayana (Rejuvenative Therapy) - Once detoxification is complete, Rasayana herbs like Amalaki (Phyllantus emblica) , Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), and GuduchI (Tinospora cordifolia) strengthen the liver, restore metabolism, and prevent recurrence.
Some Herbs That Are Used For The Shaman Chikitsa Are:
DIETARY AND LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT (PATHYA-APATHYA)
- Pathya (Wholesome Foods) : Barley, old rice, green gram, bottle gourd, ridge gourd, Fresh fruits like pomegranate, apple, papaya, Cow’s milk, buttermilk, lukewarm water with Triphala, Moderate use of ghee and turmeric.
- Apathya (Unwholesome Foods) : Alcohol, fried and spicy food, red meat, Excessive salt, sour, and fermented foods, Daytime sleeping and staying awake at night, Stress, anger, and overexertion.
- Lifestyle modification: Maintain emotional balance, avoid suppression of natural urges, Regular practice of Yoga and Pranayama like Anulom Vilom and Kapalabhati improve oxygenation and metabolism.Meditation helps reduce Manasika Hetu (mental stressors) contributing to Pitta vitiation.
HERBAL REMEDIES FOR LIVER CIRRHOSIS BY PLANET AYURVEDA
Planet Ayurveda is a renowned Ayurvedic organization dedicated to providing 100% natural, herbal, and classical formulations based on the principles of Ayurveda. Their approach to Liver cirrhosis is holistic, targeting the root cause of liver damage, supporting liver regeneration, balancing Doshas, and improving overall metabolism and immunity. LIVER CARE PACK is good for all liver disorders. Let’s discuss:-
1. Liver Detox Formula
Planet Ayurveda’s Liver Detox Capsules are specially formulated to naturally support and maintain a healthy liver. These capsules contain Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri), Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Katuki (Picrorhiza kurrooa), Makoy (Solanum nigrum) and various other herbs. They help in detoxification, improving liver function, and promoting overall metabolic balance.
DOSE - 2 capsules twice daily after meals with warm water.
2. Indian Echinacea Capsules
Indian echinacea capsules are prepared using standardised extract of Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) and is a highly valued herb in Ayurveda, renowned for its hepatoprotective and immune-enhancing properties. These capsules support a healthy liver, strengthen the immune system, and promote overall well-being, making it an excellent choice for maintaining systemic health.
DOSE - 2 capsules twice daily after meals with warm water.
3. Yakrit Plihantak Churna
Yakrit Plihantak Churna is an herbal powder formulation containing potent liver-supporting herbs such as Bhumiamal (Phyllanthus niruri) , Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) , Katuki (Picrorhiza kurrooa), and Kalmegha (Andrographis paniculata). These herbs work synergistically to protect and rejuvenate liver cells, improve bile flow, and enhance digestive and metabolic functions, making it one of the best natural supplements for liver maintenance.
DOSE - 1 tsp twice daily with plain water after meals.
4. Phyllanthus Niruri Capsules
These capsules are prepared using standardised extract of Phyllanthus niruri (Bhumi amla) which is a classical herb widely recognized for its hepatoprotective and digestive-supportive properties. It is ideal for maintaining the health of the liver, spleen, and other abdominal organs. Planet Ayurveda’s Phyllanthus niruri capsules are specifically designed to strengthen liver function, support detoxification, and enhance overall digestive wellness.
DOSE - 2 capsules twice daily after meals with warm water.
CONCLUSION
Liver Cirrhosis is not merely an organ failure, it is the failure of internal harmony. While modern medicine can manage symptoms and extend life through advanced techniques like liver transplantation, Ayurveda reaches deeper rejuvenating the very essence of the liver by restoring Agni, cleansing Ama, and balancing Doshas. By integrating Allopathy’s diagnostic precision with Ayurveda’s holistic wisdom, liver cirrhosis can be approached not as an irreversible end but as a call for systemic purification and mindful healing. In the words of Charaka: “Rogah sarve api mandagnau” i.e all diseases arise from disturbed digestion. Thus, by igniting the digestive fire and living in tune with nature’s rhythm, the liver — the seat of life’s flame — can be rekindled once again.
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