Ayurvedic Approach to Managing Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Case Report

Abstract

Fatty liver disease is one of the most prevalent liver disorders globally, characterized by the excessive accumulation of lipids, primarily triglycerides, within hepatocytes. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) refers to the buildup of excess fat within liver cells in individuals who do not consume significant amounts of alcohol. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the prevalence of chronic liver diseases, including NAFLD, has shown a steady rise in recent years. In Ayurveda, NAFLD is understood as a Santarpanottha Vikara caused by Kapha and Medo Dushti. In this case, report effect of Ayurveda intervention in grade II fatty liver is reported. A 44-year-old male patient visited the National Institute of Ayurveda Hospital in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, with complaints of abdominal heaviness, loss of appetite, fatigue, and incomplete bowel evacuation persisting for the past four months. On examination, there was no significant clinical abnormality. Haematological examinations revealed moderate enzyme elevation (ALT 89U/L, AST 42U/L). The ultrasound examination revealed a Grade II fatty liver. The patient underwent Ayurvedic treatment for 21 days. After treatment, significant improvement was observed in signs and symptoms and follow-up ultrasonography showed improvement from Grade 2 to Grade 1 fatty liver. The present case demonstrates the effectiveness of Ayurvedic interventions in the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.