Fatty Liver

Fatty liver, medically known as hepatic steatosis, is a growing concern worldwide due to sedentary lifestyles, high-calorie diets, alcohol consumption, and metabolic syndromes. It is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in liver cells, which if untreated, may progress to inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and impaired liver function. Ayurveda emphasizes that fatty liver arises due to imbalance in Kapha and Pitta doshas, improper digestion, Ama accumulation, and weak Agni (digestive fire), leading to fat deposition in hepatic tissues.

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Causes of Fatty Liver

Modern causes of fatty liver include high sugar intake, refined carbohydrates, alcohol consumption, obesity, insulin resistance, sedentary lifestyle, and metabolic disorders. In Ayurveda, primary causes involve Kapha aggravation causing heaviness and fat accumulation, Pitta imbalance inducing inflammation and metabolic disturbance, and Ama forming due to undigested food residues. Excessive intake of processed foods, irregular meal timings, and lack of exercise contribute to metabolic dysfunctions, weakening liver detoxification mechanisms and increasing fat deposition.

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Signs & Symptoms of Fatty Liver

Fatty liver often develops silently, with early symptoms including fatigue, mild discomfort in the right upper abdomen, bloating, poor appetite, and digestive disturbances. Advanced stages may cause liver inflammation, jaundice, generalized weakness, abdominal heaviness, and metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity. Ayurvedic texts describe these manifestations as Kapha-Pitta imbalance symptoms: lethargy, heaviness, indigestion, and Ama accumulation in hepatic tissues, which over time leads to systemic health deterioration.

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Diagnostic Methods for Fatty Liver

Modern diagnostics include blood tests for liver enzymes (ALT, AST), lipid profiles, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and sometimes liver biopsy to assess fat infiltration and inflammation. Ayurvedic diagnosis emphasizes pulse analysis, tongue examination, abdominal palpation, and evaluation of digestive health, Ama presence, and doshic imbalance to assess liver wellness. A combination of clinical assessment, biochemical tests, and Ayurvedic evaluation ensures a precise understanding of hepatic condition and guides holistic management.

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Fatty Liver – Ayurvedic View

Ayurveda classifies fatty liver as a Kapha-Pitta imbalance with Ama accumulation. Excess Kapha leads to fat deposition, heaviness, and sluggish metabolism, while Pitta aggravation triggers inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue damage. Weak Agni contributes to Ama formation, impairing liver function and systemic metabolism. Ayurvedic therapy focuses on restoring dosha balance, enhancing digestive fire, detoxifying Ama, and rejuvenating liver tissues with herbs, diet, and lifestyle modifications.

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Herbal Remedies for Fatty Liver

Herbs play a central role in managing fatty liver. Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) detoxifies the liver and supports hepatocyte regeneration. Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri) reduces fat accumulation and inflammation. Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) helps prevent fluid retention and enhances liver metabolism. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support. Herbal formulations may include decoctions, powders, or medicated ghee. Alongside, dietary modifications, exercise, and detoxification therapies complement herbal remedies to restore liver health and metabolism naturally.

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Conclusion

Fatty liver is a modern epidemic, silently impacting liver function, metabolism, and overall health. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach by addressing Kapha-Pitta imbalance, Ama accumulation, and weak Agni. Herbal remedies such as Kutki, Bhumyamalaki, Punarnava, and Turmeric combined with dietary regulation, exercise, and detoxification restore liver function, reduce fat accumulation, and promote long-term hepatic wellness. Early intervention with Ayurvedic principles ensures prevention of progressive liver disease and supports metabolic balance and vitality.