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Abstract
Kamala (jaundice), as detailed in Ayurvedic texts, highlights the integration of traditional wisdom with the
pathophysiology of hepatic diseases. This review critically examines the Ayurvedic diagnostic and
therapeutic approaches to Kamala, emphasizing its etiology, classification, and management. Key
comparisons with modern hepatological understandings reveal the relevance of Ayurvedic interventions,
particularly in addressing root causes and systemic effects. The review integrates insights from classical
texts and contemporary studies, aiming to bridge ancient knowledge with modern practices. Future
research should explore interdisciplinary methods to refine the diagnosis and management of Kamala.
Keywords: Kamala, Jaundice, Ayurveda, Pitta Dosha, Hepatic Diseases, Virechana Therapy.
P ISSN No. : 2584-2757
Volume : 02
Issue : 02
Publisher
ROGANIDAN VIKRUTIVIGYAN PG ASSOCIATION
FOR PATHOLOGY AND RADIODIGNOSIS
DOI : 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 4 6 5 0 0 2 4
Reg. No. : MAHA-703/16(NAG) Year of Establishment – 2016
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH
Corresponding author: Asmita Nikam Article Info: Published on : 15/01/2025
Ayurvedic Diagnostic Perspectives On Kamala (Jaundice): A Comparative
Analysis
Dr. Asmita Nikam
1
, Dr. Savita Balkar
2
,Dr.Santosh Chavan
3
1
Second Year PG, Department of Rognidan Evum Vikriti Vidyan ,D.Y. Patil School of Ayurveda Navi Mumbai
2
Associate Professor, Department of Rognidan Evum Vikriti Vidyan ,D.Y. Patil School of Ayurveda Navi
Mumbai.
3
HOD, Department of Rognidan Evum Vikriti Vidyan ,D.Y. Patil School of Ayurveda Navi Mumbai.
Cite this article as: - Dr. Asmita Nikam
(2025) ; Ayurvedic Diagnostic Perspectives On Kamala (Jaundice): A Comparative
Analysis; Inter.J.Dignostics and Research 2 (2) 45-50, DOI: 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 4 6 5 0 0 2 4
Introduction:
Kamala, derived from Ayurvedic principles, represents
a spectrum of conditions resembling jaundice.
Recognized in classical texts such as Charaka Samhita
and Sushruta Samhita, Kamala is considered a
manifestation of Pitta and Raktavaha Srotas disorders.
This disease, characterized by yellow discoloration,
anorexia, and systemic debility, has parallels with
modern hepatological conditions, including
hepatocellular and obstructive jaundice.
The aim of this review is to analyze Ayurvedic
perspectives on Kamala, its diagnostic framework, and
therapeutic strategies, correlating them with
contemporary medical science.
Objectives:
1. To analyze Kamala’s pathophysiology as
described in Ayurvedic texts.
2. To compare Ayurvedic diagnostics with
modern hepatology.
G A R V
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3. To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of
Ayurvedic interventions for Kamala.
Methods:
This review synthesizes information from classical
Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita,
Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya.
Additional data were gathered from contemporary
medical literature and clinical studies on jaundice.
A comparative approach was adopted, aligning
Ayurvedic concepts with modern hepatological
frameworks.
Results
1. Pathophysiology and Classification
Kamala is classified based on its origin and
presentation:
Koshtashrita Kamala: Analogous to
hepatocellular jaundice, characterized by
excessive Pitta and systemic symptoms,
including yellow discoloration of skin and
urine, and clay-colored stools. Pathogenesis
involves impaired bile flow and
systemic,Pitta vitiation.
[1-3]
Shakhashrita Kamala: Represents a
chronic or obstructive type, where Pitta
accumulates in peripheral tissues, leading to
reduced bile secretion and systemic debility.
[4-6]
Kumbha Kamala: Advanced form,
correlating with ascites and severe hepatic
dysfunction, marked by edema and systemic
exhaustion.
[7]
2. Etiology:
Dietary and lifestyle factors, including excessive
intake of Pitta-aggravating foods, incompatible
dietary combinations, and psychological stress,
contribute to Kamala’s onset. These factors lead to
Pitta vitiation, impaired Agni (digestive fire), and
systemic dysfunction
[8-9]
3. Diagnostic Features
Ayurveda emphasizes clinical observation for
diagnosing Kamala. Key signs include:
Yellow discoloration of sclera, skin, and
nails.
Anorexia and fatigue.
Clay-colored stools and yellowish urine.
These symptoms align with modern
diagnostic markers for jaundice, including
elevated bilirubin and altered liver function
tests.
4. Therapeutic Approaches:
A. Purgation Therapy (Virechana):
Virechana, described as a cornerstone treatment for
Koshtashrita Kamala, facilitates the elimination of
vitiated Pitta. The procedure involves pre-treatment
with Snehana (oleation) to mobilize toxins,
followed by administration of purgatives to clear
the gastrointestinal tract
[10]
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B. Herbal Formulations
Phalatrikadi Kwatha: A decoction with
hepatoprotective and Pitta-pacifying
properties.
Katuki (Picrorhiza kurroa): Used for its
detoxifying and bile-regulating effects.
Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Enhances
immunity and supports liver function
[11-12]
C. Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications
Avoidance of Pitta-aggravating foods such
as spicy, sour, and oily substances.
Incorporation of easily digestible foods and
hydration to support liver function
[13]
.
D. Modern Correlations:
The Ayurvedic emphasis on systemic detoxification
and dietary regulation aligns with modern
approaches to managing hepatic conditions. For
example, the role of herbal hepatoprotectives
parallels the use of modern medications such as
ursodeoxycholic acid
.
[14-15]
.
1. Laboratory Tests:
These are the first-line investigations for diagnosing
and classifying jaundice.
A. Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
Total Bilirubin, Direct (Conjugated)
Bilirubin, Indirect (Unconjugated)
Bilirubin:
Helps determine whether jaundice is pre-
hepatic, hepatic, or post-hepatic.
Unconjugated Hyperbilirubinemia:
Suggests pre-hepatic causes (e.g.,
hemolysis).
Conjugated Hyperbilirubinemia:
Indicates hepatic or post-hepatic causes.
Alanine Transaminase (ALT) and
Aspartate Transaminase (AST): Elevated
levels suggest hepatocellular damage.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) and
Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT):
Raised levels indicate cholestasis or bile
duct obstruction.
B. Complete Blood Count (CBC):
Detects Anemia (suggestive of hemolysis)
or infection.
C. Hemolysis Markers:
Peripheral Blood Smear: Identifies
hemolysis or abnormal red blood cells.
Reticulocyte Count: Elevated in hemolysis.
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH): High in
hemolysis.
Haptoglobin: Decreased in hemolysis.
D. Serological and Viral Markers:
Hepatitis Panel: To rule out infections like
Hepatitis A, B, C, or E.
Autoimmune Markers: ANA, SMA, and
LKM antibodies in autoimmune hepatitis.
2. Imaging Studies:
These are essential for detecting structural
abnormalities, bile duct obstructions, or liver
lesions.
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A. Ultrasound (Abdominal):
Non-invasive and widely available.
Detects gallstones, bile duct dilation, or
liver masses.
B. CT Scan (Abdomen):
Provides detailed visualization of the liver,
gallbladder, and bile ducts.
Useful for identifying tumors, abscesses, or
pancreatic involvement.
C. Magnetic Resonance Cholangio-
pancreatography (MRCP):
A specialized MRI technique to visualize
the biliary tree and pancreatic ducts.
Detects strictures, stones, or tumors causing
obstruction.
D. Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS):
Combines endoscopy and ultrasound for a
closer view of bile ducts and pancreas.
Helpful in identifying small stones or
tumors.
3. Invasive Procedures:
A. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-
pancreatography (ERCP):
Both diagnostic and therapeutic.
Used to visualize and remove bile duct
stones, biopsy lesions, or place stents.
B. Liver Biopsy:
Performed when liver parenchymal disease
is suspected (e.g., cirrhosis, autoimmune
hepatitis).
Provides histopathological confirmation.
4. Advanced Diagnostic Techniques
A. FibroScan (Transient Elastography)
Measures liver stiffness to assess fibrosis or
cirrhosis.
B. Molecular and Genetic Testing
Identifies hereditary conditions like
Gilbert's syndrome, Crigler-Najjar
syndrome, or Dubin-Johnson syndrome.
C. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan
Used in cases of malignancy to identify
metastases or primary tumor location.
Clinical Significance
Early and accurate identification of the
cause of jaundice ensures timely
intervention.
The choice of investigation depends on the
clinical presentation and suspected etiology.
Discussion:
Ayurvedic descriptions of Kamala encompass a
comprehensive understanding of hepatic disorders,
emphasizing systemic balance and root cause
elimination. The classification of Kamala into
Koshtashrita, Shakhashrita, and Kumbha Kamala
corresponds with modern categorizations of
hepatocellular, obstructive, and advanced jaundice,
respectively.While Ayurvedic diagnostics rely
heavily on clinical observation, modern methods
utilize biochemical markers and imaging.
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Integrating these approaches can enhance
diagnostic accuracy. Additionally, Ayurvedic
therapies such as Virechana offer unique
advantages in addressing systemic imbalances,
though their applicability in severe cases requires
further validation.
Challenges and Future Directions
1. Limited clinical trials validating Ayurvedic
treatments for Kamala.
2. Need for standardized protocols to integrate
Ayurvedic and modern therapies.
3. Further exploration of the hepatoprotective
mechanisms of Ayurvedic formulations.
Conclusion:
Ayurvedic perspectives on Kamala provide valuable
insights into the pathophysiology and management
of jaundice. By addressing systemic imbalances and
root causes, Ayurvedic therapies offer holistic
solutions that complement modern hepatology.
Future research should focus on interdisciplinary
approaches, combining traditional wisdom with
contemporary science to optimize the diagnosis and
treatment of hepatic disorders.
References
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