World Hepatitis Day is an important global health observance day that serves as a reminder of the urgent need to combat viral hepatitis. On this day, we come together to raise awareness, promote testing and treatment, and support those affected by this silent killer. In this blog post, we will dive into the holistic approach of Ayurveda toward hepatitis, offering a ray of hope to those seeking natural alternatives for effective healing.

Each year, hepatitis claims the lives of over a million individuals. We are not passively anticipating change; instead, we are actively engaged in striving to bring about the necessary transformation.

What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis, a term that refers to the inflammation of the liver, is a significant global public health concern. With several viral strains identified, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, this disease affects millions worldwide and can lead to severe complications if left untreated. While modern medicine has made tremendous progress in managing and preventing hepatitis, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative therapies, such as Ayurveda, to enhance treatment outcomes.

Also Read: Top 9 Foods That Helps To Detoxify Liver

Types of Hepatitis:

Viral hepatitis is caused by five different viruses: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A is mainly contracted through contaminated food and water, and can easily be transmitted, especially among children. However, it is the mildest form of hepatitis and typically resolves within six months without causing significant liver damage. 

Hepatitis B can be transmitted through exposure to contaminated blood, needles, syringes, or bodily fluids, as well as from mother to baby. It is a chronic condition that, over time, may result in long-term liver damage, liver cancer, and cirrhosis. 

Similarly, hepatitis C is only transmitted through infected blood or from mother to newborn during childbirth. Like hepatitis B, it can also lead to liver cancer and cirrhosis in the long run. 

Hepatitis D is only found in individuals who are already infected with hepatitis B. Lastly, hepatitis E is mainly prevalent in Africa, Asia, and South America.

Also Read: Preventable liver disease is rising: Ayurvedic Diet For Liver Health

General Symptoms of Hepatitis:

• Malaise
• Abdominal tenderness (especially in the upper right corner)
• Fatigue or Muscle pain
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Joint Pain
• Fever
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the white portion of the eyes)
• Dark-colored urine
• Lightly-coloured stools
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea with or without vomiting
• Abdominal swelling due to fluid retention 

Causes of Hepatitis:

Hepatitis can arise from various causes, including:

• Autoimmune hepatitis, wherein immune cells attack the liver.
• Infections caused by viruses (like hepatitis A, B, or C), bacteria, or parasites.
• Liver damage resulting from alcohol consumption, toxic mushrooms, or other harmful substances.
• Medications, such as an overdose of acetaminophen, can have fatal consequences.
• Liver disease may also be triggered by inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis or hemochromatosis, involving excessive iron accumulation in the body, particularly in the liver.
• Other factors encompass Wilson's disease and its impact on liver health. 

Diagnose:

Various laboratory tests are employed to diagnose and assess hepatitis cases, including:

• Abdominal ultrasound
• Autoimmune blood markers
• Hepatitis virus serologies
• Liver function tests
• Liver biopsy to evaluate liver damage
• Paracentesis if fluid is present in the abdomen

Diagnosing specific types of hepatitis involves testing for particular antibodies and viral particles:

• Hepatitis A virus (HAV) acute infection is diagnosed by detecting immunoglobulin M (IgM) for HAV.
• Acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is identified by the presence of IgM for hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) in the serum. Chronic carriers of HBV may also have hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in their serum.
• For hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection confirmation, serologic assays detect anti-HCV antibodies, and molecular tests can identify viral particles. Third-generation anti-HCV assays are sensitive and specific, detecting antibodies within 4-10 weeks of infection. Qualitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be helpful in diagnosing acute HCV infection before antibodies develop.
• Testing for IgM antibodies to hepatitis D virus (HDV) is not routinely necessary for all patients with suspected hepatitis.

Also Read: Ayurvedic Herbs for Hepatitis: Natural Remedies for Liver Health

Complications:

Generally, viral hepatitis can lead to various complications, which may cause:

• Acute or subacute hepatic necrosis
• Chronic active hepatitis
• Chronic hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• Hepatic failure
• Development of Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients infected with HBV or HCV. 

Ayurvedic Perspective on Hepatitis:

Ayurveda categorizes different forms of Kamala (hepatitis or jaundice) based on the severity of the symptoms. They are as follows:

Shakhasrita

This type of jaundice is caused by an aggravation of all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and is considered a form of obstructive jaundice.

Koshta shakhsrita

This form of jaundice occurs due to severe pitta derangement and is considered a difficult-to-cure and serious type of hepatitis.

Kumbha Kamala

At this stage, jaundice is neglected or left untreated, which can lead to an incurable condition if not addressed promptly. It can be likened to Cirrhosis of the liver.

Haleemaka 

This is an advanced or neglected stage of Paandu roga resulting from an imbalance of both vata and pitta.

At Ayushakti, we offer highly effective Ayurvedic solutions for various types of Hepatitis, including hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Ayushakti focuses on controlling the infection and replication of the virus, thus preventing further damage to the liver. 

Our Ayurvedic approach involves three main components: Shodana chikitsa (detoxification through Panchakarma procedures), Shamana chikitsa (administering palliative Ayurvedic medicines), and Kayakalpa (rejuvenation).

In addition to these approaches, adhering to specific dietary restrictions, making lifestyle modifications, and addressing any addiction issues are essential factors that contribute to the best possible results.

Ayurvedic principles emphasize the importance of detoxification, restoration of liver function, and strengthening the immune system to combat hepatitis effectively.

Also Read: 10 Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Fatty Liver Disease

Click here to watch: How Ganshyam got relief from Chronic Liver Infection, jaundice, and joint pain relief

Ayushakti’s Approach Towards Hepatitis:

Ayushakti’s “Livofresh” program focuses on the regeneration of new liver tissues. The good news is liver can regenerate & new cells can be produced.

Here is how the “Livofresh” program can transform your health:

Ayushakti doctors analyze your cause of liver damage, its severity other multiple health problems, if any, through video or face-to-face consultation. Create customized "Livofresh'' programs using the 3R formula of healing with a blend of 6 proprietary tools like diet, lifestyle, home remedies, herbal formulas, & detox plans.

WHAT BENEFIT DO YOU GET WITH AYUSHAKTI'S "LIVOFRESH" SOLUTION?

1. Optimum digestion, improved appetite.
2. Renewed and healthy liver functions.
3. Freedom from stomach pain, inflammation, weakness, yellowish eyes, and skin.
4. Steady improvement in body weight.
5. Improved immune functions thus prevent liver Infection's long term.

Panchakarma: The Detoxification Process:

One of Ayurveda's main treatments for hepatitis is Panchakarma, a comprehensive detoxification process. Panchakarma involves a series of therapies, including herbal steam baths, medicated enemas, and massage techniques, which aid in eliminating toxins from the body. This gentle yet powerful cleansing process can help rejuvenate the liver and restore its optimal functioning.

Ayushakti’s detoxification Panchkarma treatments are highly focused on relieving the root cause of any chronic problem by cleansing, repairing and rejuvenating the deeper tissues and cells in your body.  Click here to check out our Panchkarma Detoxification Plan 

Herbs and Dietary Recommendations:

Ayurveda harnesses the healing power of various herbs to address hepatitis. Herbs such as bhumi amla, bhringraj, and kutki possess potent hepatoprotective properties and help stimulate liver regeneration. Also, Ayurvedic dietary recommendations focus on consuming fresh, organic foods that are easy to digest, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while avoiding processed and fatty foods that strain the liver.

Also Read: Effective Diet and home remedy to get rid of Hepatitis and restore Liver functions

Takeaway

World Hepatitis Day serve as a powerful reminder that together, we can combat this global health crisis. By embracing Ayurveda's ancient wisdom, we open new doors to healing and hope for those battling hepatitis. Let us come together to raise awareness about the potential benefits of Ayurvedic treatments, providing a pathway for individuals to explore holistic approaches and empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. 

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by hepatitis, offering them a brighter, healthier future.

Ayushakti's mission is to help people in every possible way. You can consult our experts by phone or video. We will suggest diet & home remedies for maintaining your well-being in these difficult times. Book your consultation here https://bit.ly/31YnP1b

For more information, write to us at info@ayushakti.com. You can contact us on our toll-free numbers - 18002663001 (India) & +18002800906 (Global).

Blog Author: Dr. Reshma Selar

Expert Review By: Dr. Smita Pankaj Naram 

Co-Founder, Ayushakti Ayurved Pvt. Ltd.