Ayurvedic Treatment for Jaundice

In Ayurveda, jaundice is called kamala. It is described as a condition of the liver and blood linked to aggravated Pitta.

Traditional understanding

• Kamala is linked to Pitta aggravation from hot, spicy, sour and oily food, alcohol and daytime sleep.
• Texts describe yellow eyes, skin, urine and stool with weakness and poor appetite.
• Kumbha kamala is the severe, late form.

Traditional approaches

• Light, easily digested food and cooling measures
• Herbs named in texts include bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri), kutki, guduchi and punarnava, given as prescribed preparations
• Mild purgation (virechana) in selected cases, under supervision only

What the evidence says

Some small studies of Phyllanthus species in hepatitis exist, but results are mixed and not strong enough to replace standard care. Evidence for other herbs is limited. Ayurveda should be treated as an adjunct and not a substitute for medical diagnosis and treatment.

Important cautions

• Get tests first. Jaundice can come from blocked bile ducts, cancers or acute liver failure, which need hospital care.
• Several herbal and traditional products can themselves injure the liver and cause jaundice. Avoid unlabelled powders, ash preparations (bhasma) and unregulated remedies.
• Do not use folk treatments such as jhaad-phook, sugar-cane juice cures or applying substances to the eyes in place of medical care.
• Do not give herbal remedies to newborns and infants unless a paediatrician advises.
• Tell your doctor about every herb you take.

Key point

Ayurvedic care for jaundice should be supervised by a qualified practitioner alongside medical tests and treatment.

Before your appointment

Note when the yellow colour began and the colour of your urine and stools. List all medicines, herbs, supplements and alcohol use. Mention fever, itching, abdominal pain, weight loss, recent travel, injections, transfusions, tattoos and contact with others with jaundice. For a baby, note birth date, feeding pattern, wet nappies and the mother's blood group. Ask about tests, the likely cause and which signs need urgent care. Call 112 for confusion, bleeding or severe pain with fever.