Ayurveda treatment of Jaundice (Kamala) by prescribing illness specific medicinal herbs 

Jaundice or hyperbilirubinemia is a diseased condition which is produced when bilirubin levels in blood shoot up and there are many reasons for the it. There are many illnesses having relationship with liver and whenever there is a diseases condition with regards hepatic physiology, jaundice comes up as a symptom / sign so a differential diagnosis on behalf of physician is very much important. In ayurveda, there are two medical terms referred as pandu and kamala. Both of these diseases are interrelated with each other in a way that is pandu is not treated in nick of time, its further progression leads to development of kamala.

In jaundice, there is yellow / pale pigmentation of the skin, the conjuctival membrane of the sclera, mucuous membrane due to high values of bilirubin in the blood. Irregular dietary and lifestyle regimen is one of the prime causes which can lead to development of jaundice like symptoms. In our ancient samhitas, kamala vyadhi is described as pittaja nanatmaja and raktapradoshaja vyadhi. Acharya Charak has considered kamala as an advanced stage of pandu roga. Primarily Jaundice / pillia / kamala is due to aggressive behavior of pitta in the body and thus all pitta aggravating factors needs to be discouraged. Thus to balance the pitta dosha, ayurveda science recommends intake of plenty of water and abstinence from oily, spicy food.

In particular its the ranjak pitta vitiation (pitta dosha) which leads to higher bilirubin levels and yellowness of the skin.

In Ayurveda, jaundice is understood as a disorder primarily involving the imbalance of the “Pitta” dosha, which is one of the three fundamental bio-energies or doshas in Ayurvedic philosophy. Jaundice is referred to as “Kamala” in Ayurveda. The Pitta dosha, responsible for digestion and metabolism, when aggravated, can affect the liver and lead to the manifestation of jaundice.

Here are detailed points explaining how jaundice is understood in Ayurveda:

1. Dosha Imbalance:
   • Ayurveda views jaundice as a result of an aggravated Pitta dosha, which is responsible for the transformation and metabolism of substances within the body.
   • The imbalance in Pitta can occur due to various factors such as excessive intake of spicy, oily, and fried foods, as well as emotional stress and anger.
2. Impaired Liver Function:
   • According to Ayurveda, the liver (Yakrit) is considered a crucial organ in the manifestation of jaundice.
   • Pitta imbalance affects the liver’s ability to process bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. When the liver is unable to process bilirubin efficiently, it leads to the characteristic yellowing of the skin and eyes in jaundice.
3. Agni (Digestive Fire) Disturbance:
   • Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of balanced Agni for proper digestion and metabolism.
   • Pitta imbalance can lead to disturbances in Agni, affecting the digestion and absorption of nutrients, and leading to the accumulation of toxins in the liver.
4. Toxin Accumulation (Ama):
   • The impaired digestion and metabolism result in the formation of Ama, which is undigested or partially digested substances that are considered toxins in Ayurveda.
   • Ama accumulation in the liver obstructs the normal functioning of the organ and contributes to the development of jaundice symptoms.
5. Prakriti (Individual Constitution):
   • Ayurveda recognizes that individuals have unique constitutions or Prakriti, which influence their susceptibility to diseases.
   • Those with a predominant Pitta constitution may be more prone to developing jaundice, especially when exposed to factors that aggravate Pitta.
6. Dietary and Lifestyle Factors:
   • Ayurveda places significant importance on diet and lifestyle in maintaining health and preventing diseases.
   • Recommendations for individuals with jaundice may include a Pitta-pacifying diet, which involves avoiding spicy, oily, and fried foods, and adopting a cooling and soothing diet.
7. Herbal Remedies:
   • Ayurvedic treatments for jaundice often involve the use of herbs that help balance Pitta, support liver function, and aid in the elimination of toxins.
   • Herbs such as Bhumyamalaki, Kutki, and Arogyavardhini are commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations for managing jaundice.
8. Panchakarma Therapies:
   • Panchakarma, a set of cleansing and detoxification therapies in Ayurveda, may be recommended for individuals with jaundice.
   • Therapies like Virechana (therapeutic purgation) and Basti (medicated enema) are designed to eliminate excess Pitta and toxins from the body.
9. Balancing Emotions:
   • Ayurveda recognizes the connection between emotions and health. Emotional stress, particularly anger, is considered a significant factor in Pitta aggravation.
   • Practices such as meditation, yoga, and stress management are recommended to help balance emotions and support overall well-being.

In summary, Ayurveda provides a holistic understanding of jaundice, considering the interplay of dosha imbalances, impaired liver function, digestive disturbances, toxin accumulation, and individual constitution. The approach involves restoring balance through diet, lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, and detoxification therapies.

Ayurveda provides several home remedies for managing jaundice (Kamala) that focus on balancing the doshas, supporting liver function, and promoting detoxification.

Here are detailed points on home remedies for jaundice in Ayurveda:

1. Radish Juice:
   • Extract fresh radish juice and consume a small cup daily.
   • Radish is believed to help in detoxifying the liver and promoting bile flow.
2. Sugarcane Juice:
   • Drink freshly extracted sugarcane juice to boost energy and aid in detoxification.
   • Ensure the juice is prepared in a hygienic environment.
3. Amla (Indian Gooseberry):
   • Consume Amla in various forms, such as raw or as Amla juice.
   • Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting liver health.
4. Turmeric Milk:
   • Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm milk and consume before bedtime.
   • Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties.
5. Papaya Seeds:
   • Crush papaya seeds and consume a small amount daily.
   • Papaya seeds are believed to have detoxifying effects on the liver.
6. Lemon Water:
   • Drink warm water with a squeeze of lemon juice on an empty stomach.
   • Lemon promotes digestion and can assist in liver detoxification.
7. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) Juice:
   • Extract juice from Giloy stems and consume a small amount daily.
   • Giloy is known for its immunomodulatory and liver-protective properties.
8. Barley Water:
   • Boil barley in water and drink the barley water.
   • Barley is considered cooling and may help in reducing Pitta.
9. Coriander Seeds:
   • Boil coriander seeds in water and drink the decoction.
   • Coriander is believed to have cooling and anti-inflammatory properties.
10. Gooseberry and Honey:
    • Mix gooseberry powder with honey and consume.
    • This combination is thought to support liver health and enhance digestion.
11. Bitter Gourd Juice:
    • Extract juice from bitter gourd and drink it on an empty stomach.
    • Bitter gourd is known for its liver-cleansing properties.
12. Triphala Churna:
    • Mix Triphala powder in warm water and consume before bedtime.
    • Triphala aids in digestion, detoxification, and maintaining overall health.
13. Coconut Water:
    • Drink fresh coconut water regularly.
    • Coconut water is hydrating and may help in maintaining electrolyte balance.
14. Carrot and Spinach Juice:
    • Combine carrot and spinach juice and drink the mixture.
    • Carrots provide nutrients, while spinach is rich in iron and vitamins.
15. Fennel Seeds:
    • Chew fennel seeds after meals or boil them in water to make a tea.
    • Fennel is believed to aid digestion and reduce Pitta.
16. Pomegranate Juice:
    • Drink fresh pomegranate juice to support liver function.
    • Pomegranate is rich in antioxidants and can aid in detoxification.
17. Buttermilk with Cumin:
    • Mix cumin powder in buttermilk and drink it.
    • Cumin is considered digestive and may help in reducing inflammation.

It’s important to note that while these home remedies can be supportive, individuals with jaundice should consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for a comprehensive treatment plan. Severe cases of jaundice may require professional medical attention, and these home remedies can be used as complementary measures under guidance. Individual responses to home remedies may vary, and any adverse reactions should be promptly addressed by a healthcare professional.

Causes of Jaundice as per principles of ayurveda:

• As per ancient sage of ayurveda – Acharaya Charak, if any patient after recovering from pandu starts consuming too much oily, spicy or other pitta aggravating foods, then jaundice can develop. Also if the pandu roga goes untreated for long, it can also lead to development of kamala roga.
• as an outcome of a viral infection
• side effects of certain conventional medications too can develop jaundice
• Excessive use of alcohol
• if due to any tumor or gall stones, the bile ducts are blocked or swollen
• due to autoimmunity as well, jaundice can develop

In Ayurveda, jaundice, known as “Kamala,” is attributed to various factors that lead to an imbalance in the Pitta dosha and affect the functioning of the liver. Here are detailed points on the causes of jaundice in Ayurveda:

1. Excessive Pitta Dosha:

   • The primary cause of jaundice in Ayurveda is an aggravation of the Pitta dosha, responsible for digestion, metabolism, and transformation of substances in the body.
   • Excessive Pitta disrupts the normal functioning of the liver, leading to the accumulation of bilirubin and the manifestation of jaundice.

2. Consumption of Pitta-Aggravating Foods:

   • Diets high in spicy, oily, and fried foods can contribute to the aggravation of Pitta.
   • Ayurveda identifies such dietary choices as a significant factor in the development of jaundice.

3. Emotional Factors – Anger and Stress:

   • Emotional stress, particularly anger, is considered a potent trigger for Pitta imbalance.
   • Ayurveda emphasizes the mind-body connection, and emotional disturbances can lead to the aggravation of Pitta and subsequent liver dysfunction.

4. Liver Disorders:

   • Pre-existing liver disorders, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, can contribute to the development of jaundice.
   • These conditions compromise the liver’s ability to process bilirubin efficiently.

5. Infections:

   • Ayurveda recognizes infections, particularly those affecting the liver, as potential causes of jaundice.
   • Infections can lead to inflammation and impairment of liver function.

6. Toxic Overload:

   • Exposure to environmental toxins or the consumption of contaminated food and water can contribute to a toxic overload in the body.
   • Ayurveda views the accumulation of toxins (Ama) as a factor that disrupts liver function and contributes to jaundice.

7. Alcohol Consumption:

   • Excessive alcohol consumption is known to damage the liver and can be a causative factor for jaundice.
   • Ayurveda advises moderation in alcohol intake to maintain liver health.

8. Hemolytic Disorders:

   • Conditions that increase the breakdown of red blood cells, known as hemolytic disorders, can result in an elevated production of bilirubin.
   • This increased bilirubin load can overwhelm the liver’s capacity, leading to jaundice.

9. Giloyadi Vati Dosage:

   • In Ayurveda, excessive use of certain medications or herbal formulations, such as Giloyadi Vati, can lead to drug-induced liver injury and jaundice.
   • It highlights the importance of using Ayurvedic remedies under proper guidance.

10. Genetic Factors:

    • Ayurveda recognizes the role of individual constitution (Prakriti) in health and disease.
    • Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to liver disorders, increasing their susceptibility to jaundice.

11. Bile Duct Obstruction:

    • Blockages or obstructions in the bile ducts can impede the flow of bile, leading to jaundice.
    • Ayurveda considers factors that obstruct the natural flow of substances within the body as contributors to disease.

12. Poor Lifestyle Choices:

    • Sedentary lifestyle, irregular eating habits, and lack of physical activity can contribute to the accumulation of toxins and Pitta imbalance.
    • Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a balanced lifestyle for maintaining overall health.

Understanding the causes of jaundice in Ayurveda involves considering a combination of internal imbalances, external factors, and individual predispositions. The holistic approach of Ayurveda aims to address these causes by restoring balance to the doshas, promoting liver health, and supporting overall well-being through personalized treatments and lifestyle modifications.

Illness specific herbs used in preparing ayurveda medications for jaundice are listed here:

The primary medicinal herbs which are used as ingredients in the ayurveda formulation for the treatment protocol of Jaundice (Kamala) patient are as follows:

• Nimba – Azadirachta indica
• Ajmoda – Carum roxinurghianum
• Patola – Trichosanthes dioica
• Bakul – Mimusops elengi
• Matulung – Citrus medica
• Vasa – Adhatoda vasica
• Changeri – Oxalis corniculata
• Chavya – Piper chaba
• Amrita – Tinospora cordifolia
• Hritpatri – Digitalis purpurea
• Indravaruni – Citrullus colocynthis
• Saariva – Hemidesmus indicus
• Ishwari – Aristolochia indiaca
• Jivanti – Leptadenia reticulata
• Bhumyamalki – Phyllanthus niruri
• Kadamb – Anthocephalus indicus
• Gokshura – Tribulus terrestris
• Ashwath – Ficus religiosa
• Akarkrabh – Anacyculs pyrethrum
• Nili – Indigofera tinctoria
• Chandrashoor – Lepidium sativum
• Dronapushpi – Leucas cephalotes
• Yashti – Glyzyrrhiza glabra
• Kadali – Musa sapientum
• Keetmari – Aristolochia bracteata
• Sthira / Prishanparni – Uraria picta
• Latakasturi – Hibiscus abelmoschus

Ayurveda utilizes various medicinal plants to address jaundice (Kamala) by aiming to balance the Pitta dosha, support liver function, and facilitate the elimination of toxins. Here are detailed points on some of the medicinal plants commonly used in Ayurveda for jaundice:

1. Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri):

   • Known for its hepatoprotective properties, Bhumyamalaki is used to support liver function.
   • It helps in detoxification and has anti-inflammatory effects.

2. Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa):

   • Kutki is renowned for its liver-protective properties in Ayurveda.
   • It stimulates bile flow and supports the liver in detoxifying the body.

3. Arogyavardhini (Various Ingredients):

   • Arogyavardhini is a classical Ayurvedic formulation containing herbs like Haritaki, Bibhitaki, Amalaki, Shilajit, Guggulu, and more.
   • It is used for liver disorders, including jaundice, and helps in detoxification.

4. Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa):

   • Punarnava is known for its diuretic properties and helps in reducing fluid retention.
   • It aids in detoxification and is beneficial for liver health.

5. Sharpunkha (Tephrosia purpurea):

   • Sharpunkha is traditionally used in Ayurveda for its hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects.
   • It is believed to support liver function and aid in the management of jaundice.

6. Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata):

   • Kalmegh is recognized for its anti-inflammatory and liver-protective properties.
   • It is used to stimulate bile flow and improve liver function.

7. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia):

   • Giloy is an immunomodulatory herb with hepatoprotective properties.
   • It aids in the detoxification process and supports liver health.

8. Daruharidra (Berberis aristata):

   • Daruharidra is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
   • It is used to support liver function and is beneficial in jaundice.

9. Pippali (Piper longum):

   • Pippali is recognized for its digestive and hepatoprotective properties.
   • It is used to enhance digestion and metabolism, supporting the liver.

10. Triphala (Three Fruits – Amalaki, Bibhitaki, Haritaki):

    • Triphala is a well-known Ayurvedic formulation with a combination of three fruits.
    • It is used for its detoxifying effects and supports overall digestive health.

11. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):

    • Guduchi is an immune-modulator and has anti-inflammatory properties.
    • It is used to support liver function and promote detoxification.

12. Neem (Azadirachta indica):

    • Neem is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
    • It is used to cleanse the blood and support liver health.

13. Turmeric (Curcuma longa):

    • Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
    • It supports liver function and helps in managing inflammatory conditions.

14. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula):

    • Haritaki is part of the Triphala formulation and is known for its detoxifying properties.
    • It helps in improving digestion and supporting liver health.

15. Kasani (Cichorium intybus):

    • Kasani, also known as Chicory, is used for its hepatoprotective and diuretic properties.
    • It aids in the management of liver disorders, including jaundice.

It’s important to note that the use of these medicinal plants should be guided by a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner, as they may prescribe specific formulations and dosages based on an individual’s constitution and the nature of the imbalance. Self-medication is not recommended, and personalized guidance ensures optimal benefits and safety.

Over the counter medications prescribed for Jaundice (Kamala) in ayurveda medical science are listed here:

• Panchgavya ghrita
• Gokshura churna
• Dadimadya ghrita
• giloy satva
• Triphala kwatha
• Punarnava mandoor
• guduchyadi kashayam
• Mandoora yoga
• Vasa guluchyadi kashayam
• Nimbatwagadi kashyam
• Dashmoolarishta
• Ardraka ghrita
• Panduhara kshaya
• Shatavri guda
• Danti haritkyavaleha
• Mandoora vatakam
• Patoladi choorna
• Trayantyadi kashaya

In Ayurveda, the management of jaundice (Kamala) involves the use of specific medications or formulations that aim to balance the doshas, particularly Pitta, support liver function, and aid in detoxification. Here are detailed points on some of the commonly used Ayurvedic medications for jaundice:

1. Arogyavardhini Vati:

   • Arogyavardhini Vati is a classical Ayurvedic formulation containing herbs like Haritaki, Bibhitaki, Amalaki, Shilajit, Guggulu, and more.
   • It is used for liver disorders, including jaundice, and helps in detoxification and improving liver function.

2. Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) Powder:

   • Kutki is a potent herb for liver protection and is often used in powdered form.
   • It stimulates bile flow, supports liver detoxification, and aids in managing jaundice.

3. Liv 52:

   • Liv 52 is a popular Ayurvedic proprietary medicine containing various herbs, including Caper Bush (Himsra) and Chicory (Kasani).
   • It is known for its hepatoprotective properties and is used to support liver health and manage jaundice.

4. Punarnavadi Mandura:

   • Punarnavadi Mandura is an Ayurvedic medicine containing Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) and other ingredients.
   • It is used for managing liver disorders, including jaundice, and supports detoxification.

5. Yakrit Plihantak Churna:

   • This herbal powder is specifically formulated for liver health and includes herbs like Bhumi Amla, Katuki, Makoy, Punarnava, and others.
   • It is used to balance Pitta, support liver function, and aid in the treatment of jaundice.

6. Kamdudha Ras:

   • Kamdudha Ras is a classical Ayurvedic formulation containing ingredients like Moti Pishti, Mukta Pishti, Praval Pishti, and others.
   • It is used for its cooling properties and is beneficial in Pitta-related disorders, including jaundice.

7. Swarna Bang Bhasma:

   • Swarna Bang Bhasma is a metallic Ayurvedic preparation that includes gold.
   • It is used for its rejuvenating properties and may be prescribed in jaundice cases for its impact on liver function.

8. Bhringarajasava:

   • Bhringarajasava is a liquid Ayurvedic preparation that contains Bhringaraja (Eclipta alba) and other herbs.
   • It is known for its hepatoprotective properties and is used to support liver health in conditions like jaundice.

9. Kumaryasava:

   • Kumaryasava is an Ayurvedic fermented liquid preparation containing Aloe vera and other herbs.
   • It is used for its detoxifying and digestive properties and may be beneficial in jaundice management.

10. Sarva-Jwarahara Lauha:

    • This Ayurvedic iron formulation includes Lauha Bhasma along with various herbs.
    • It is used in managing fever-related conditions, including those associated with jaundice.

11. Mahatiktaka Ghrita:

    • Mahatiktaka Ghrita is a medicated ghee preparation containing herbs like Neem, Manjistha, and others.
    • It is used for its detoxifying properties and may be prescribed in jaundice cases.

12. Rohitakarishta:

    • Rohitakarishta is an Ayurvedic fermented liquid preparation containing herbs like Rohitaka (Tecoma undulata).
    • It is used for liver disorders and may be recommended in jaundice management.

It’s crucial to note that Ayurvedic medications should be prescribed by a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner after a thorough assessment of an individual’s constitution, the specific nature of the imbalance, and other relevant factors. Self-medication is discouraged, and personalized guidance ensures the optimal and safe use of these medications for managing jaundice.