Role of Sahastravedhi Tarun sneha in the management yakrutodar with special reference to Alcoholic liver disease.
Abstract
Acharya Charaka describes Sannipatodara as a type of Udara
classified under the Ashtamahagada, indicating its complex and difficultto-cure nature. The pathogenesis of Udara begins with impaired digestive
strength (Agnidosha), leading to improper nutrient assimilation
(Malavriddhi) and accumulation of waste products. Stagnation of these
wastes contributes to disease manifestation. Suppression of Agni along
with continued intake of causative factors (Hetu Sevana) results in the
production and accumulation of Ama, which vitiates Prana, Agni, and
Apana, causing obstruction in both upward and downward channels of circulation.
This overall imbalance leads to vitiation and excessive provocation of Vata.
Due to chronicity and severity caused by prolonged consumption of causative factors,
accumulation of Mala, and toxins, the disease may become irreversible. When Vata
Dosha dominates, overall body metabolism is disrupted, predisposing the patient to
serious complications such as hepatic failure, hepato-renal syndrome, muscle wasting,
hyperammonemia, and hepatic encephalopathy.
From a modern medical perspective, the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy is
multifactorial, with elevated blood ammonia considered a key risk factor. Ammonia
produced during normal protein metabolism in the colon reaches systemic circulation
and accumulates in the central nervous system when liver detoxification is impaired.
To address this pathophysiological chain, Shahastravedhi Tarun Sneha has been
selected as a therapeutic intervention. Chronic alcohol consumption directly
contributes to hepatotoxicity, leading to alcoholic hepatitis and progression to liver
cirrhosis. In advanced cirrhosis, gut-derived neurotoxins bypass the liver due to
vascular shunting and reduced hepatic mass, reaching the brain and exacerbating
encephalopathy.
Ammonia detoxification primarily occurs in the liver and striated muscles. In patients with advanced
liver disease, significant muscle wasting is common, which Ayurveda correlates with the dominance
of Vata. The probable mode of action of Hingu Misrit Eranda Sneha is discussed in the current study
as a potential therapeutic approach for managing such complications.
Keywords
Udara, Mahagad, Hingu, Eranda Sneha