Fatty Liver: Ayurvedic Approach & Treatment

Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition in which there is an abnormal accumulation of fat in the liver. It is a common condition that can affect people of all ages, but is more prevalent in people who are overweight or obese, have diabetes, or have high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides.

What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?

? Swollen legs and abdomen

? Extreme exhaustion or disorientation.

? PCOS, insulin resistance, or hormonal imbalance in women

? Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen

? Concurrent Hyperlipidemia (blood has too many lipids or fats)

Some people with fatty liver disease may also have other conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), insulin resistance, or hormonal imbalances.

Causes of Fatty liver disease

Fat accumulation in the liver cells causes fatty liver disease. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, diabetes, and certain medications. Ayurvedic treatment for fatty liver disease focuses on restoring the balance of mind, body and spirit. This may involve dietary changes, yoga and meditation, massages and herbal remedies.

Ayurvedic Approach

In Ayurveda, a fatty liver is known as "Medo Roga" and is caused by an imbalance of the Kapha dosha. Treatments for a fatty liver in Ayurveda may include a combination of the following:

? Herbal remedies: Certain herbs, such as Guggulu, Haritaki, and Vidanga, are believed to have a beneficial effect on the liver. These herbs can be taken in the form of supplements or used to make decoctions or pastes.

? Dietary changes: An Ayurvedic diet for a fatty liver typically involves reducing the intake of foods that are high in fat and oil, and increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoiding foods that are heavy to digest such as dairy, red meat and sweets.

? Lifestyle changes: Ayurveda also emphasises the importance of regular exercise and stress management in the treatment of a fatty liver. Yoga and meditation may be beneficial for this purpose.

? Panchakarma: This is a set of five purification procedures that are used to cleanse the body and restore balance to the doshas. It may include snehana, swedana, vamana, virechana, and nasya. These treatments are done by trained Ayurveda practitioners.

Panchakarma procedures In the treatment of a fatty liver:

? Snehana: This is a procedure that involves the use of medicated oils to lubricate and nourish the body. It is used to soften and loosen the toxins stored in the fat tissue, so that they can be eliminated from the body. Snehana is typically administered through massage, but can also be taken orally.

? Swedana: This is a procedure that involves the use of steam to induce sweating and open the pores, allowing the toxins to be eliminated from the body. Swedana is typically done after Snehana.

? Vamana: This is a procedure that involves induced vomiting, used to eliminate toxins and excess kapha from the upper respiratory and digestive tracts. It is not advisable in certain condition as liver disease, high blood pressure and certain heart condition

? Virechana: This is a procedure that involves the use of herbal purgatives to cleanse the lower digestive tract and eliminate toxins from the body.

? Nasya: This is a procedure that involves the administration of medicated oils or herbal powders through the nose to cleanse and strengthen the head and neck.

Herbal Remedies for Fatty Liver

While there is no cure for fatty liver, these herbs may help improve liver function and reduce fat accumulation. Some of the commonly used herbs include:

? Shankhapushpi: This herb is believed to have a detoxifying effect on the liver and is thought to help reduce the accumulation of fat in the liver.

? Guduchi: This herb is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is thought to help protect the liver from damage.

? Kalmegh: This herb is believed to have liver-protective properties and is thought to help reduce inflammation in the liver.

? Punarnava: This herb is believed to have a diuretic effect and is thought to help reduce fluid accumulation in the body, which can help reduce the pressure on the liver.

? Vidanga: This herb is believed to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and is thought to help protect the liver from infection and inflammation.

Diet and Lifestyle changes for Fatty Liver

Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, offers a comprehensive approach to the treatment of fatty liver. Ayurvedic principles emphasise the importance of a healthy diet and lifestyle in the prevention and treatment of disease. The following dietary and lifestyle changes are advised for those with fatty liver:

? Avoid refined carbohydrates, such as white flour and sugar. Instead, eat complex carbs like whole grains and vegetables.

? Limit your intake of saturated fats and replace them with healthy unsaturated fats, such as olive oil or avocados.

? Eat plenty of fibre-rich foods to help detoxify the body and promote regularity. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains are high in fibre.

? Drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush toxins from your system. Herbal teas are also beneficial.

? Exercise regularly to help improve liver function and reduce fat stores.

Conclusion

Fatty liver is a serious condition and can have severe consequences if left untreated. We hope that our discussion of the Ayurvedic approach to fatty liver and its treatment has been helpful. It is important to remember that dietary and lifestyle modifications are essential for reversing fat accumulation in the liver. At Au Revoir, we help you to get practice on the dinacharya that can help you have a good healthy lifestyle. Au Revoir, being the best resort in Palakkad, offers the finest ayurvedic panchakarma treatment in Kerala. Our experienced practitioners will work with you to create a personalised treatment plan to meet your unique needs Connect with us to find all sorts of solutions for healthy living. Experience the power of Ayurveda and take the first step towards a rejuvenated life.