A CLINICAL CASE STUDY ON AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF KAMALA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO JAUNDICE

Abstract

Jaundice, or icterus, is characterized by yellowish discoloration of the skin, sclera, and body fluids, primarily due to elevated serum bilirubin levels. This condition generally indicates impaired liver function, with clinical symptoms typically appearing when serum bilirubin exceeds 2.5–3 mg/dL. In Ayurvedic texts, hepatocellular jaundice is described under the condition known as Kamala. The increasing prevalence of Kamala is closely linked to modern dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and poor hygiene, all of which contribute to hepatic dysfunction.

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to managing Kamala through both Shamana Chikitsa (palliative therapy) and Shodhana Chikitsa (bio-purificatory therapy), particularly Virechana (therapeutic purgation). This case study presents the Ayurvedic management of a 22-year-old male diagnosed with Kamala (hepatocellular jaundice), who was treated using Shamana and Virechana therapies. The patient showed significant improvement in clinical signs, symptoms, and biochemical parameters. The case highlights the efficacy of classical Ayurvedic interventions in managing Kamala, though further studies are warranted to develop standardized clinical assessment criteria.