Does autoimmune hepatitis linked to Anxiety

Question

I'm suffering from autoimmune hepatitis for more than a year and is there a cure in Ayurveda for that and I have a doubt that does it linked to low hormones?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Autoimmune hepatitis is a complex condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, leading to inflammation and potential damage. Ayurveda views autoimmune diseases as imbalances in the body's immune response, often linked to the disturbance of Doshas (vital energies) and Agni (digestive fire). Treatment focuses on restoring balance, enhancing liver function, and modulating the immune response.

Ayurvedic Approach
Detoxification: The initial phase of treatment may involve detoxifying the body through Panchakarma therapies, which can help cleanse the liver and reduce toxicity. Procedures like Virechana (purgation) and Basti (medicated enemas) can be particularly beneficial.

Herbal Remedies: Herbs such as Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri) and Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) are known for their hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory properties. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is also beneficial for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These herbs can be incorporated into your daily regimen under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner.

Dietary Considerations: A liver-friendly diet is essential. Focus on a diet rich in fresh, organic vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid alcohol, processed foods, and excessive fats. Incorporate foods that support liver health, like beets, carrots, and leafy greens.

Hormonal Balance: Regarding your concern about low hormones, hormonal imbalances can be linked to autoimmune conditions. In Ayurveda, this may be seen as a disruption in the body’s Srotas (channels) and Dhatus (tissues). Treatments may include specific herbs like Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) for stress and hormonal balance, and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) which is known to support reproductive health and hormonal regulation.

Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporate stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises, as stress can exacerbate autoimmune conditions. Ensure you maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid overexertion.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Autoimmune hepatitis is a challenging condition that involves the immune system attacking liver cells, leading to inflammation and potential liver damage. Ayurveda approaches this condition holistically, focusing on restoring balance within the body and addressing underlying factors that may contribute to the disease. While there is no definitive cure for autoimmune hepatitis, Ayurveda can help manage symptoms and support liver function.

Treatment may involve detoxifying therapies such as Panchakarma to cleanse the liver and enhance its function, combined with specific herbal remedies like Bhumi Amla and Kutki, which are known for their liver-protective properties. Addressing your low testosterone and other hormonal imbalances is also crucial, as these can influence the immune response and overall well-being. Herbs like Ashwagandha and Shatavari can help balance hormones and support your body during stress.

In addition, a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, along with lifestyle changes that include stress management techniques such as yoga and meditation, can play a vital role in improving your condition.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Autoimmune hepatitis is a condition where your immune system starts attacking your liver cells, which, admittedly, sounds quite intense. While Ayurveda does offer approaches to manage such conditions, it’s important to note that we’re aiming to support your system, potentially alleviate symptoms, and work on improving your quality of life, but not necessarily “cure” it in the conventional sense.

In Ayurveda, we’d often look at the liver, or “yakrit,” as a critical point in your metabolism (agni) and its imbalance can be connected to the pitta dosha getting aggravated. Now, anxiety could play a role here. Pitta dosha is often linked to emotional stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate liver issues because it increases internal heat or inflammation, sorta speaking.

Anyway, if you’re thinking about hormone levels—specifically low hormones, they could affect or be affected by autoimmune conditions, but it’s not all black and white. The connection here can sometimes be a bit indirect. Low hormones might play a part if, say, your stress levels are fluctuating due to thyroid imbalances which might interplay with your liver health. The intricacies are quite complex!

Here’s what you might consider in support—taking Turmeric (known as Haridra) with warm water or milk daily might help due it’s anti-inflammatory properties. But ensure you're not overdosing on it. Also consider amla, Triphala, and Guduchi, which support liver function and might calm that acute pitta energy. Bhringraj can be pretty beneficial too.

Try incorporating practices to manage stress like easy yoga poses or pranayama like alternate nostril breathing. Don't push it too hard though; gentle is key.

Of course, continue your care under your doctor’s guidance and keep them in loop with anything new you’re integrating. It’s about finding balance, not stressing the already overwhelmed system, right? Remember, patience and persistence in such complex conditions usually aid healing better than haste.

Does autoimmune hepatitis linked to Anxiety - #556

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