Effect of Ayurvedic Interventions on Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (Yakrit Vikara)

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), recently termed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is a common metabolic liver disorder characterized by excessive hepatic fat accumulation and frequently associated with obesity, insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Ayurveda offers an individualized approach to metabolic disorders through assessment of Agni, Dosha, Meda Dhatu and Srotas. In the present case study, a 50-year-old male patient presented with abdominal pain, irregular bowel movement and heaviness in abdomen and was diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease based on clinical evaluation, biochemical investigations and ultrasonography. Fibroscan revealed moderate fibrosis. Ayurvedic assessment revealed Agnimandya, Meda Dushti and features suggestive of Medovaha Srotodushti. The patient was treated with an individualized Ayurvedic regimen comprising Aarogyavardhini vati, Gokshuradi guggulu, Punarnava formulations for four months. Following completion of treatment, there was improvement in clinical, biochemical and liver stiffness parameters. No adverse events were reported during the treatment period. This case highlights the potential role of an individualized Ayurvedic approach in the management of NAFLD/MASLD, integrating Agni and Meda assessment with pharmacological interventions.