MADYAJANYA BAHUPITTA KAMALA WITH SPECIAL REFFERENCE TO ALCOHOLIC LIVER DISEASE WITH JAUNDICE AND HEPATITIS

About Author

Correspondence Address

DMM Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Yavatmal
Contact No. : 07517 570454, Email : swatishelke188@gmail.com

Date of Acceptance : 16 Jun 2026

Date of Publication : 30 Jun 2026

Article ID : SD-IJAY_177

How to cite this article : http://doi.org/10.55552/SDNJAY.2026.4205

Abstract

Bahupitta Kamala is a subtype of Kamala described in Ayurveda. Madyajanya Bahupitta Kamala arises due to excessive alcohol intake, leading to aggravated Pitta and Rakta dushti, affecting liver function. It closely correlates with Alcoholic Liver Disease presenting with Jaundice and Hepatitis. Clinically, it manifests as yellow discoloration of the sclera and skin, Agnimandya, Daurbalya, and Mutra-Peetata.

Modern management mainly focuses on symptomatic relief and abstinence, whereas Ayurveda emphasizes a holistic approach targeting root causes. This article explores Ayurvedic perspectives of etiology, pathogenesis (Samprapti), and clinical features, along with correlation to contemporary diagnosis. Therapeutic interventions include Nidana Parivarjana, Shamana using hepatoprotective formulations like Bhumyamalaki, Guduchi, and Kutki, along with Pathya-Apathya guidelines. A case-based analysis demonstrates significant improvement in symptoms and liver function parameters, suggesting Ayurveda as an effective, safe, and integrative approach in managing alcohol-induced liver disorders.

KEY WORDS:-  Madyajanya Kamala, Bahupitta Kamala, Kamala, Alcoholic Liver Disease,                                             Jaundice, Hepatitis, Yakrit Vikara.

Introduction

In ancient Ayurvedic samhitas, Kamala is described as a clinical condition closely resembling jaundice in modern medicine. In modern terms, jaundice becomes evident when bilirubin exceeds 3 mg/dL¹. Madyajanya Bahupitta Kamala is a specific type caused by excessive intake of madya (alcohol), leading to marked aggravation of pitta dosha. Continued indulgence in pitta-vardhaka factors, such as alcohol, accelerates the progression from Pandu to Kamala². Clinically, patients present with Arochaka (loss of appetite), Avipaka (indigestion), Agnimandya (reduced digestive fire), fatigue, and yellow discoloration of skin, eyes, and urine. This condition primarily affects the yakrit (liver) and rakta dhatu, disturbing overall systemic health³. Ayurvedic texts emphasize that proper management through medicines, diet, and lifestyle modifications especially avoidance of alcohol can effectively treat the condition and prevent recurrence. Management focuses on Nidana Parivarjana, pitta-shamana, and yakrit-protective therapies⁴. According to Charaka, Kamala is not an independent disease but an advanced stage of Pandu roga⁵. In contrast, Sushruta describes Kamala as both an independent disease and a complication of Pandu⁶. While Vagbhata also considers it a distinct disease entity⁷. Chakrapani classifies Kamala into the Bahupitta and Alpapitta types. Madyajanya Kamala falls under Bahupitta Kamala (Koshthashakhashrita), characterized by excessive accumulation and spread of vitiated pitta⁸. It is categorized as Pittaja Nanatmaja Vyadhi and Rakta Pradoshaja Vyadhi, indicating involvement of both pitta and blood tissue⁹.

Discussion

• Combined Effect in Madyajanya Bahupitta Kamala Vyadhi

1. Detoxification:

Formulations such as Triphala Guggul, Punarnava Guggul, and Aarogyavardhani Vati assist in eliminating accumulated toxins (Ama) from the body and enhance digestive function (Agni deepana).

1. Liver Support:

Aarogyavardhani Vati and Punarnava Guggul play a significant role in maintaining liver health by improving hepatic function and regulating bile secretion.

1. Pitta-Pacifying Action:

- Formulations like Sutshekhar Ras, Kamdudha Ras, help in balancing aggravated Pitta, thereby reducing r loop such as yellow discoloration, excessive heat, and burning sensation.

• Drugs like Guduchi and Bhringraj are effective in alleviating aggravated Pitta, thereby helping to control the primary pathology of Kamala (jaundice).

1. Anti-inflammatory and Rejuvenative Effect:

• Triphala Guggul

→ Strong anti-inflammatory due to Guggulu + Triphala

→ Useful in reducing shotha and detoxification

Also has Rasayana effect due to Triphala (especially for the gut and tissues)

• Arogyavardhini Vati

→ Mild to moderate anti-inflammatory

→ Acts on the liver, improves metabolism, and reduces inflammatory pathology

Improves liver function → indirectly promotes dhatu nourishment. These medicines work together to decrease inflammation and promote rejuvenation of the liver, aiding in faster and more effective recovery.

1. Liver Detoxification and Repair:

Kutki, along with Bhringraj, act synergistically to detoxify the liver, promote bile regulation, and support regeneration of hepatic cells.

✔️ Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri)

One of the best liver tonics

Reduces bilirubin, useful in Kamala (jaundice)

Antiviral (helpful in hepatitis)

1. Improved Digestion:

Kutki and Guduchi enhance Agni (digestive fire), remove Ama (toxins), and facilitate proper bile flow, thus relieving symptoms like nausea, heaviness, and indigestion.

1. Rejuvenation and Strengthening:

Guduchi and Bhringraj function as Rasayana, aiding in tissue nourishment, boosting immunity, and accelerating recovery.

• Diet and Lifestyle Advice:

1. Diet:

The patient should be advised to follow a Pitta-shamaka ahara, avoiding oily, spicy, sour, and fried foods. Preference should be given to light and cooling items such as moong dal, along with supportive measures like papaya leaf extract to aid liver function.

1. Lifestyle:

Proper rest and adequate hydration are essential for recovery. Strict avoidance of alcohol and processed foods is necessary, as they aggravate Pitta and further impair liver function.

Conclusion

From the above discussion, it can be inferred that there was a significant improvement in the signs and symptoms of Madyajanya Bahupitta Kamala following appropriate management.
Importance of early diagnosis and Ayurvedic management:
Timely identification and proper Ayurvedic intervention help in faster recovery and prevent the progression of the disease into a chronic stage.

References

1. Ralston SH, Penman ID, Strachan MWJ, Hobson RP, editors. Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine. 23rd ed. Edinburgh: Elsevier; 2018. p.1240.
2. Acharya YT. Charaka Samhita, Vidhyotini tika, Chikitsa sthana, Chapter 7, Shloka 30. Delhi: Chaukambha Orientalis; 2009. p.253.
3. Acharya YT. Charaka Samhita, Vidhyotini tika, Chikitsa sthana, Chapter 7, Shloka 23. Delhi: Chaukambha Orientalis; 2009. p.252.
4. Agnivesha. Charaka Samhita with Ayurveda Dipika commentary of Chakrapani Datta, Sutrasthana, Virechanopakrama Adhyaya (16). Varanasi: Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan; Reprint. p.98–102.
5. Acharya YT. Charaka Samhita, Vidhyotini tika, Chikitsa sthana, Chapter 7, Shloka 26. Delhi: Chaukambha Orientalis; 2009. p.252.
6. Shastri AD. Sushruta Samhita, Ayurvedtatva Sandeepika, Nidana sthana, Chapter 5, Shloka 5. Delhi: Chaukambha Orientalis; 2007. p.320.
7. Vagbhata. Ashtanga Hridaya, Nidana Sthana (relevant chapter on Kamala). Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia. (Add exact edition/page as per your source)
8. Agnivesha. Charaka Samhita with Ayurveda Dipika commentary of Chakrapani Datta, Chikitsasthana (7). Varanasi: Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan; Reprint. p.451–456.
9. Agnivesha. Charaka Samhita with Ayurveda Dipika commentary of Chakrapani Datta, Chikitsasthana (7). Varanasi: Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan; Reprint. p.445–460.