Cirrhosis of the Liver – A Comparison of Modern (Allopathic) and Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Chronic damage to the liver cells causes inflammation of the liver cells; this usually heals with formation of scar tissue. This gradual degeneration and scarring of the liver is called cirrhosis. This disease is usually caused by chronic viral infections such as hepatitis B and C, fatty liver, alcohol abuse, hereditary metabolic disorders, exposure to environmental toxins, and severe drug reactions. Cirrhosis causes gradual liver dysfunction and blockage of blood and fluids flowing through the liver. The processing of nutrients, hormones, drugs, toxins, and the production of proteins and other substances is severely impaired.

Confirmed cirrhosis is termed compensated – when liver function is well preserved – and decompensated – when the liver can no longer perform its normal function – causing symptoms such as jaundice, ascites, bleeding varices, hepatic encephalopathy, liver cancer, and co-occurring symptoms Diseases of the kidneys or lungs. In the early stages, vague symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss may appear, while in the late stages, symptoms such as easy bruising and severe itching may appear.

Modern (allopathic) treatment consists of home care, medication and surgery. Treating or eliminating known causes such as drug and alcohol use and obesity are essential to prevent further damage. Patients are advised to eat a low-sodium, high-protein diet with adequate fluid intake. It is recommended to take routine vaccinations according to the schedule. Medications are needed primarily to reduce ascites, control high blood pressure, treat inflammation and infection, and specifically treat hepatitis B and C. An abdominal puncture may be done as a temporary measure to remove excess ascites fluid. Surgical liver transplantation is recommended for patients with advanced cirrhosis.

While modern medicine can only treat cirrhosis and ascites supportively, Ayurvedic treatment can be used to reverse liver cell damage and fibrosis as much as possible. It is currently believed that mild to moderate fibrosis can be completely reversed if treatment is started early. Ayurvedic herbal medicine has been clinically shown to be useful in treating liver inflammation, reversing liver cell damage, correcting circulatory drainage and restoring liver function. Toxins are removed from the liver and blood via the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract with appropriate herbal medicines. Herbal medicines can also be administered to effectively treat viral infections as well as alcohol addiction.

Ascites (abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity) is one of the most visible signs of chronic and advanced liver cirrhosis. Ayurveda extensively mentions the treatment and diet plan for ascites, with an exclusive milk diet for the first three months, followed by a gradual mixing of liquid and semi-liquid broths along with milk after three months. Many patients with advanced cirrhosis and excessive ascites have been treated successfully with this Ayurvedic diet and treatment strategy. After treatment, patients can lead normal lives with appropriate dietary restrictions and lifestyle changes.

Regular treatment for at least eight to 10 months can help most people with cirrhosis to benefit significantly from treatment, increasing both longevity and quality of life. Ayurvedic herbal treatment can therefore be used sensibly in the treatment and treatment of liver cirrhosis.

Thanks to Abdulmubeen Mundewadi