Ayurvedic Management of Hepatocellular Jaundice – A Case Report

Jaundice is a yellow discolouration of the skin, another mucous membrane and the conjunctival membrane surrounding the sclera. It is a clinical symptom of either underlying hepatocellular dysfunction biliary obstruction or anomalies of bilirubin metabolism. This clinical entity can be compared with Kamla as described in Ayurveda. The strength of Ayurveda in treating jaundice should be emphasised. This is a case report of a 24-year-old male patient who visited Kayachikitsa out-patient department with the chief complaints of Agnimandya (reduced appetite), Chardi (vomiting), Udarashool (pain in the abdomen), Hrullas (nausea), Peet varniya Netra (yellow discolouration of eyes), Daurbalya (lassitude), Vibhandha (constipation) for seven days. The patient was effectively treated with mild shodhana (bio-purification) with Nitya virechana (purgation therapy) followed by medicinal treatment for 30 days. After 4-5 days, there was a significant improvement in all clinical features and a substantial improvement in liver function. The treatment was given by considering the vitiation of Pitta and Rakta. It can be concluded that this disease was managed and liver functions were improved by ayurvedic management.