Cirrhosis is a condition in which permanent damage occurs in the healthy liver cells. In cirrhosis healthy liver tissues are replaced with scar tissues that keeps the liver from working properly. This can happen because of a liver disease or condition that injures healthy liver cells, causing cell death and inflammation. So, the best way to treat cirrhosis is by taking care of your liver. In this blog, I will be discussing Ayurvedic treatment for liver cirrhosis.
Cirrhosis is a late-stage result that happens because of liver disease and complications. Initially, it may not give away any symptom. But people with alcohol abuse, hepatitis and fatty liver condition are at a higer risk of cirrhosis. So, it’s important to take good care before the damage becomes irreversible. In later stages, cirrhosis is life-threatening and the patient may require a liver transplant.
Before understanding the treatment options, let’s know a little more about cirrhosis.
What is cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is an autoimmune liver disease characterized by abnormal function of the liver. It is a condition in which scar tissues gradually replaces healthy liver tissue. The scar tissue blocks the flow of blood through the liver and slows the processing of nutrients, hormones, drugs, and naturally produced toxins. It also slows the production of proteins and other substances made by the liver.
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What Causes the Cirrhosis of the Liver?
Liver cirrhosis is often a result of neglected liver or straining it too much!
Alcoholism is a very common cause of cirrhosis. We all know that high levels of alcohol consumption damages the liver cells. Alcohol causes a range of liver diseases; from simple and uncomplicated fatty liver (steatosis) to alcoholic hepatitis to cirrhosis. The amount and regularity of alcohol intake greatly impacts your liver health.
Apart from alcohol abuse, a few other causes of cirrhosis are
- Fatty liver
- Hepatitis B and C
- Blockage of the bile duct
- Cystic fibrosis,
- Exposure to prolonged environmental toxins,
- Parasitic infections
- Reaction to prescription drugs.
There are a few cases where the cause is not known.
Also Read: Ayurvedic treatment for alcoholic hepatisis
Symptoms:
Some of the more common symptoms and signs of cirrhosis include: There is no hard and fast rule that all symptoms should exist.
- Jaundice / elevated bilirubin levels
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Itching in some cases
- Nausea
- Swelling in legs in an advanced stage
- Weight loss in an advanced stage
- Confusion, drowsiness and slurred speech (hepatic encephalopathy)…in the terminal stage
- Spider-like blood vessels on the skin
Did you know?
According to an estimate, liver diseases affect more than one of every 10 Indians. In India, the bulk of cirrhosis cases are caused by fatty liver, Hepatitis B and C infections besides alcohol consumption.
Ayurvedic treatment for liver cirrhosis
Ayurveda treatment factors in the level of damage done to the liver and other complications. The first goal of treatment is to stop further scarring of Liver tissue with nectar-like herbs of Ayurveda, as the scarring of Liver tissue stopped Liver functions improve gradually. In mild to moderate Liver damage cases, Ayurveda definitely helps to stop further Liver damage.
A clinical study reported Snehapāna (therapeutic oral administration of lipids) followed by virecana (purgation) effective in treating cirrhosis. This was done after an initia course of nityavirecana (daily purgation). Once this course was over, the doctors administered pippalī (piper longum) to rejuventate liver cells. This therapy was effective in resolving ascites and lower limb oedema, without any instance of recurrence.
Also Read: 5 ultimate diet tips for fatty liver.
Home remedies you can try:
- Avoid alcohol and eat a low sodium diet. Use herbs for seasoning your food rather than salt.
- Eat a healthy plant-based diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables.
- Choose lean protein, such as legumes, poultry or fish. Avoid raw seafood.
- Protect yourself by avoiding people who are sick and washing your hands frequently.
A word of advice:
Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, influenza, and pneumonia.
Testimonial: Ayurvedic treatment for liver cirrhosis
Raj 40yrs – Technical Writer.
I was addicted to alcohol so much that it started ruining my relationship with my family and friends. I met Dr. Brahmanand Nayak one year ago through a common friend. And the doctor honestly changed my life. He counselled me and treated me. Within one month of taking the medicines, I started to feel the change. Gradually, I was able to overcome the urge to drink and it became easier to abstain day by day. I thank Dr. Brahmanand from the bottom of my heart. Life now is so much better and healthier.