Abstract

PRAGMATIC VIEW ON AYURVEDIC MANAGEMNET OF KUMBHAKAMALA THROUGH SHAMANA CHIKITSA -A CASE STUDY

Dr. Pooja Prakash Chougala*, Dr. Mahesh Sharma M., Dr. Srinivasa S., Dr. Gopika S. V. Gokul

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Abstract

Introduction: Alcoholic liver disease (ALD), is a major health issue worldwide ranging from simple steatosis to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Alcoholic liver Cirrhosis is characterized by progressive destruction and degeneration of liver parenchyma leading to diffuse fibrosis and nodule formation. The underlying pathology involves liver tissue damage caused by inflammation triggered by acetaldehyde. This leads to hepatocyte necrosis and the activation of hepatic stellate cells, which promote fibrosis and progressive scarring of the liver. Alcoholic liver cirrhosis may be interpreted as a manifestation of Kumbhakamala in Ayurveda, considering the similarities in clinical presentation and associated complications. Materials And Methods: The present study is a case of a 38-year-old male patient, with history of Chronic alcohol consumption reported to the Kayachikitsa department of SDMIAH, Bengaluru, with complaints of Haridra Netra and Mutra, Agnimadya, Sarvanga kandu, Dourbalya, Aruchi, Atisara (7-8 episodes), Padashotha, Udarashoola, Udara Adhmana (Distended abdomen) and Udaraguruta in the past 3 months. He was diagnosed as Kumbakamala on the basis of clinical examination and investigation. He was managed according to treatment principles of Kamala based on the Avastha (treated with shamanoushadhi aiming at Agnideepana, Pachana, Pittasthana Prachodaka, Nityarechana, Srotoshodana, Shotahara, Yakrut Uttejaka and Rasayana.) Result: Significant improvement was noted in lakshana of vyadhi in subsequent follow up. There was also substantial reduction in the levels of LFT value and Changes in USG finding and hence improved the quality of life of the patient. Discussion: This case study documents the challenges in managing alcoholic liver cirrhosis manifested due to chronic alcohol use with parenchymal tissue death, understanding and managing the condition in terms of Kamala Chikitsa. Photographs were taken before and after treatment for records with consent.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Kumbakamala, Liver cirrhosis, Liver function test, Shamana & Rasayana.