Ayurvedic Management of Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Case Report Highlighting the Importance of Early Detection

Abstract

NAFLD (Non Alcoholic fatty liver disease), is a metabolic disorder of hepatic origin, in which there is the accumulation of fat in the liver. NAFLD includes a spectrum of progressive liver diseases ranging from fatty infiltration alone to fatty infiltration with inflammation known as NASH (Non Alcoholic Steato Hepatitis) which may progress to cirrhosis and primary liver cancer. The overall prevalence of NAFLD worldwide estimated to be 32.4%. There is no exact clinical entity mentioned in Ayurveda like NAFLD, but may be understood as Yakritavikara (Liver disorder). Nidana like Snigdha Guru Madhura Ahara, Ayvayama, Divaswapna etc causes Agnidushti which lead to Ama production results in Sama Rasa and Malbhuta Kapha along with impaired Dhatuposhan, Dhatuparinaman & Vriddhi of Meda. If there is Khavaigunya in Yakrita, Sthansamshraya of Meda in Yakrita occurs which may produce Yakrutavikara like NAFLD. In this case report, a 46-year-old female patient, presented with complaints of Poor appetite, Nausea, Abdominal pain, heaviness, Unsatisfactory bowel habits and fatigue since 1-2 months. Based on the clinical examination, USG, Fibroscan and Blood investigations, she was diagnosed with Fatty Liver-I. The patient was effectively treated with Shaman Chikitsa for 65 days. Within 1 month, there was a moderate improvement in overall symptoms. After 65 days of Ayurvedic treatment, all symptoms, Radiological investigations and Liver function showed highly significant results. The treatment was given by considering the vitiation of Pitta, Kapha and Meda. So, it can be concluded that by implementing Ayurvedic principles, Liver Disorders can be treated without causing any adverse effects.