treatment of jaundice in adults - #17461
About two weeks ago, my uncle started feeling really weak and lost his appetite completely. He thought it was just tiredness, but then his skin and eyes started turning yellow. We rushed him to the doctor, and they diagnosed him with jaundice. His bilirubin levels were quite high, and the doctor said it was likely due to some liver infection. They prescribed rest, a strict diet, and told him to stay hydrated, but we are looking for alternative ways to speed up his recovery. I’ve been reading about Ayurveda and its natural approach to liver health, and I wanted to ask—what is the best treatment of jaundice in adults according to Ayurveda? Are there specific herbs or remedies that can help cleanse the liver and bring bilirubin levels down faster? I heard that herbs like bhumyamalaki and kutki are good for the liver, but I’m not sure how to use them correctly. The biggest issue right now is his digestion. Even though his jaundice is improving, he still feels bloated after eating, and sometimes his stomach hurts. He’s only eating simple foods like dal, rice, and boiled vegetables, but even that seems to take time to digest. Can Ayurveda help with this, and are there any foods he should completely avoid to prevent the liver from getting stressed? Also, how can we ensure that his jaundice doesn’t come back? Is there an Ayurvedic way to strengthen the liver and prevent future problems? If anyone has used Ayurvedic methods for the treatment of jaundice in adults, please share what worked for you. We just want to make sure he recovers fully and doesn’t face any complications later.
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In Ayurveda, jaundice (Kamala) is seen as a Pitta imbalance affecting the liver, and the focus is on cooling, detoxifying, and strengthening liver function. The best Ayurvedic treatment of jaundice in adults includes herbs like Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri), Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia). Bhumyamalaki and Kutki are particularly effective in cleansing the liver and reducing high bilirubin levels. You can use them in powder or tablet form—taking ½ teaspoon of Bhumyamalaki powder with honey or Kutki powder with warm water twice daily can help detoxify the liver.
Since digestion is still weak, he should stick to light, easily digestible foods. Avoid oily, spicy, fried, and heavy foods that can stress the liver. Instead of dal, opt for moong dal (split green gram), khichdi, and barley water, which are gentle on the stomach. Fresh sugarcane juice (without ice), pomegranate juice, and coconut water are excellent for liver healing and hydration. Turmeric, coriander, and fennel tea can help with bloating and stomach discomfort. Triphala powder with warm water at night can also improve digestion and help the liver eliminate toxins naturally.
To prevent jaundice from returning, he should follow a Pitta-pacifying diet, avoid excessive heat exposure, and reduce alcohol, processed foods, and stress. Drinking Aloe Vera juice or Amla juice daily can keep the liver strong. Practicing regular detox with Triphala, liver-friendly herbs, and yoga (like gentle twists and deep breathing) will ensure long-term liver health. If you need detailed guidance on how to prepare and use these remedies, let me know!
In Ayurveda, jaundice is typically associated with an imbalance in the Pitta dosha, particularly when it is related to liver dysfunction. To support liver health and reduce bilirubin levels, herbs like Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri), Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), and Katuka (Picrorhiza kurroa) are often used, as they have liver-detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties. These herbs help in cleansing the liver, improving digestion, and supporting bile production. They can be taken in the form of powders, capsules, or decoctions under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner. Additionally, Turmeric is a well-known liver tonic, helping to balance Pitta and promote detoxification.
For digestion, it’s important to consume light, easily digestible foods, as your uncle is doing with dal, rice, and boiled vegetables. To support digestion further, incorporating carminative herbs like Ajwain (Carom seeds) or Fennel after meals can help reduce bloating and improve digestive fire (Agni). Avoiding heavy, oily, or spicy foods, alcohol, and fried foods will prevent strain on the liver.
To prevent future liver issues, strengthening the liver and digestive system is key. Triphala (a combination of three fruits) is a gentle detoxifying tonic that helps maintain liver health and regular bowel movements, reducing the buildup of toxins. Regular hydration with warm water, and drinking herbal teas such as Tulsi or Ginger tea, can also support liver function. Consistent rest, proper diet, and avoiding stress will aid his full recovery.
I’m sorry to hear about your uncle’s condition. Jaundice can be concerning, and it’s great that you’re exploring Ayurveda as a supportive approach to his recovery. Given the context you’ve shared, here are personalized recommendations specifically tailored to help him with his symptoms and promote liver health.
Dietary Recommendations: 1. Easily Digestible Foods: Continue with simple, light meals. Add moong dal instead of heavier lentils, along with steamed or boiled vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and spinach, which are gentle on the liver.
2. Herbal Support: - Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri): This herb is excellent for liver detoxification. It can be taken in powder form (1 tsp) mixed with warm water or as a capsule (follow dosage on packaging) once or twice daily, preferably on an empty stomach. - Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa): This can help improve liver function. Use it in powder form (1/2 tsp) mixed with honey or warm water, taken once daily. - Hepato-protective Mix: Combine equal parts of Bhumyamalaki, Kutki, and Amla (Emblica officinalis) and take 1 tsp with warm water before meals.
3. Hydration: Encourage constant hydration, but prefer warm or room temperature water. Herbal teas made from ginger or fennel can aid digestion.
Lifestyle Changes: 1. Rest and Stress Management: Ensure ample rest as the body heals. Consider gentle yoga or pranayama (breathing exercises) to enhance relaxation and circulation.
2. Avoid Heavy Foods: Eliminate fatty, fried, and overly spicy foods, as well as processed sugars and alcohol, which can exacerbate liver stress.
Digestive Issues: To address bloating and stomach pain: - Ginger Tea: Sipping on ginger tea can stimulate digestion. Boil fresh ginger slices in water for 10 minutes, strain and consume. - Ajwain (Carom Seeds): Chewing a small teaspoon of ajwain can aid digestion. Alternatively, brewing in hot water may help. - Triphala: This herbal mixture can help regulate digestion. Taking 1/2 tsp of Triphala powder at night with warm water can promote healthy bowel movements.
Preventing Recurrence: 1. Liver Strengthening Foods: Incorporate foods beneficial for the liver, such as beets, artichokes, peppermint, and turmeric in small amounts. 2. Routine Check-ups: Regular check-ups with his healthcare provider to monitor liver functions will be crucial. 3. Avoiding Stress: Encourage a peaceful routine, minimizing stress which can impact liver health.
Follow-Up: It’s essential that any herbs or dietary changes are discussed with your uncle’s healthcare provider, especially considering his recent liver condition. Monitor his symptoms closely and adjust as necessary, ensuring he feels supported throughout his recovery process. Wishing your uncle a smooth and speedy recovery.

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