AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE - A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a broad term which describes the buildup of excessive fat in the liver cells in the absence of excessive alcohol intake. According to WHO, in recent years the number of chronic liver disease, including NAFLD has recorded steady growth. NAFLD is an added risk factor for extra hepatic disease such as CVD, CKD, colorectal cancer, endocrine disorders and osteoporosis. Ayurveda also vividly describes liver disease. NAFLD can be interpreted as a Santarpanotha Vikara (disease) caused by Kaphamedo Dushti, getting Sthanasamsraya in Yakrut (liver), the Raktavahasrotomoola and Pittasthana.

A 27 years old male patient with complaints of dull abdominal pain, discomfort and poor appetite for 6 wks came with an USG report which showed elevated liver echogenicity (Grade-I Fatty Liver). He was advised Chitrakadi Vati 500 mg twice daily after food with Anupan Takra and Patol Katurohinyadi Kashayam 10 ml twice a day for 2-months. Chitrakadi Vati is   a formulation mentioned in Charak Samhita, Grahanirog Chikitsa having Kaphmedohara, Deepana, Pachana properties. Patol Katurohinyadi Kashayam mentioned in Shodhanadi Ganasangrah adhyaya in Ashtang Hridayam has been reported by many practitioners to be effective in treatment of liver disorders as it is Kaphmedohar Raktaprasadak, Yakritagami and Deepan. At the end of the study, the fatty infiltration of liver was reverted to normal. The combination of Chitrakadi Vati and Patol Katurohinyadi Kashayam was effective in NAFLD.