Abstract
The liver is one of the most vital organs of the human body, responsible for metabolism, detoxification, digestion, immunity and regulation of biochemical balance. Liver diseases are increasingly common due to unhealthy diet, alcohol consumption, infections, metabolic disorders and drug toxicity. Elevated liver enzymes like SGOT (AST) and SGPT (ALT) are key indicators of liver cell injury. As per Ayurveda, liver disorders are due to disturbances of Agni (metabolic fire), Pitta Dosha and Rakta Dhatu (blood tissue). So, let’s discuss in detail.
Introduction
Any impairment in liver function affects the entire body. Liver diseases affect millions worldwide and are often marked by elevated SGOT (AST) and SGPT (ALT) levels that show hepatocyte damage. Common disorders include fatty liver (steatosis from fat buildup), viral hepatitis, cirrhosis (scarring) or alcohol induced damage and these all diseases strain the liver. Most liver diseases initially present silently and abnormal liver enzymes may be the first detectable sign. So what exactly are these enzymes?
So, SGOT and SGPT are enzymes that are found in the hepatocytes and they are measured in the blood tests. They are markers of liver cell damage.
SGOT (ASP)
It is Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase or Aspartate Aminotransferase. It aids in amino acid metabolism, converting them for energy use across multiple tissues. It is found in the liver, heart, skeletal muscles, red blood cells, kidneys, etc. Its normal range is 5–50 IU/L.
SGPT (ALT)
It is Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase or Alanine Aminotransferase. It breaks down alanine into energy, mainly supporting liver protein metabolism and detoxification. It is mainly found in the liver cells. Its normal range is 7–56 IU/L.
So SGPT is more liver specific than SGOT. Elevated levels often signal liver damage from hepatitis, alcohol use, fatty liver, cirrhosis, or medications.
In Ayurveda the liver is considered the main site of Ranjaka Pitta, which is responsible for blood formation and metabolic transformations and its dysfunction arises primarily from Pitta dosha aggravation and Agni (digestive fire) derangement. Ayurveda counters this through hepatoprotective herbs that detoxify, reduce inflammation and regenerate liver cells, balancing vitiated doshas. There are various ayurvedic herbs that can help to lower these enzymes effectively, supported by holistic lifestyle changes for sustained health.
Some Of These Herbs Are
1. Kutki
Picrorhiza kurroa contains active compounds like picroside I, kutkoside, etc. which help stabilize hepatocyte (liver cell) membranes. This reduces leakage of SGOT/SGPT into the bloodstream, helping normalize their levels. It stimulates hepatocyte regeneration thus aiding in the repair of damaged liver cells.
2. Bhumiamla
Phyllanthus niruri exhibits strong hepatoprotective and antiviral activity. It contains alkaloids like phyllanthin, hypophyllanthin which stabilize hepatocyte membranes. It also inhibits viral replication in hepatitis B and helps in reducing liver inflammation. It is particularly useful in viral hepatitis induced enzyme elevations.
3. Kalmegh
Andrographis paniculata contains andrographolide that is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hepatoprotective. It modulates liver enzymes by reducing oxidative stress and suppressing pro inflammatory cytokines in hepatocytes. It is especially effective in toxin or drug induced SGOT/SGPT elevation.
4. Bhringraj
Eclipta alba primarily has regenerative properties thus making it excellent for chronic liver damage recovery. It is rich in wedelolactone and flavonoids and promotes hepatocyte regeneration and protects against oxidative damage. It enhances bile flow and helps in improving detoxification.
5. Kaasni
Cichorium intybus contains chicoric acid, inulin, etc. that stimulate liver cell metabolism and bile secretion and helps in reducing liver congestion. It has a strong choleretic effect (enhances bile secretion and flow) thus supporting bile flow and fat metabolism.
6. Makoy
Solanum indicum is particularly effective in chemical or toxin induced liver injury and helps in supporting cellular protection and repair. It helps to stabilize hepatocyte membranes and reduce inflammatory cytokines. It acts as an antioxidant, protecting liver cells from chemical or viral injuries.
7. Punarnava
Boerrhavia diffusa has both hepatoprotective and mild diuretic actions and is very helpful in liver congestion with edema or ascites. It lowers liver enzyme levels by improving liver detoxification and repairing damaged hepatocytes.
8. Sharpunkha
Tephrosia purpurea has strong antioxidant properties and cholagogue effects and is useful in fatty liver and chronic hepatic stress. It helps to protect liver cells from oxidative and chemical stress. It enhances bile secretion and promotes detoxification.
And all these herbs are combined together and are found in the Planet Ayurveda’s Yakrit Plihantak Churna. This is 100% natural, vegetarian, free of preservatives and chemical free and many researches are done on this product that demonstrate its effectiveness and its role in managing the condition.
Yakrit Plihantak Churna
It is a Clinically Tested Ayurvedic Formulation of Planet Ayurveda which is available in powder form. It contains the above-mentioned herbs which work synergistically to reduce hepatic inflammation, improve bile flow, enhance antioxidant defenses and promote regeneration of hepatocytes. It strengthens the hepatocytes cell membrane and supports controlled hepatocyte regeneration by reducing oxidative stress while allowing physiological repair.
Yakrit Plihantak Churna
Dosage
1 tsp twice daily with plain water after meals.
Conclusion
The liver is a powerful yet vulnerable organ that silently endures metabolic and toxic stress. Elevated SGOT and SGPT levels are warning signs of liver stress and damage. While modern medicine focuses on symptomatic management, Ayurveda provides a comprehensive framework to restore liver health by correcting Agni (digestive Fire), pacifying Pitta, removing toxins and rejuvenating liver tissue. Herbal medicines like Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri), Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) and Bhringaraj (Eclipta alba) offer natural, effective support in managing liver diseases and normalizing liver enzymes, making Ayurveda a valuable complementary approach to liver care.
