Fatty liver
Fatty liver is excess fat buildup in liver cells, caused by alcohol or poor lifestyle, leading to liver damage.
About Fatty liver
The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous functions in the body, including detoxification, metabolism, and bile production. The liver plays a crucial role in filtering toxins from the blood, metabolizing nutrients, producing proteins, and storing energy in the form of glycogen. It also helps in the digestion process by producing bile, which aids in fat breakdown.
Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition where fat accumulates in the liver cells. Two subtypes are-
Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD)- The liver breaks down alcohol, but heavy drinking can overwhelm its capacity, leading to fat accumulation in liver cells. It can lead to cirrhosis, which is scarring of the liver.
Causes- This is caused by excessive drinking of alcohol.
Symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal pain.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)- This type of fatty liver disease is not related to alcohol consumption.
Causes - Unhealthy food habits including eating too much red meat and oily foods, sedentary lifestyle, and improper digestion.
Symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, fluid retention (ascites), abdominal discomfort, and enlarged liver.
Diagnosis- Fatty liver is usually detected through imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, which can show fat accumulation in the liver. Blood tests may also indicate elevated liver enzymes, although not everyone with fatty liver has abnormal liver function tests.
Risk Factor
- Being overweight or obese
- Having high blood fat levels
- Having diabetes or prediabetes
- Having high blood pressure
- Having high triglycerides
Common Causes
- Excessive drinking of alcohol
- Unhealthy food habits
- Eating too much red meat and oily foods
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Improper digestion
Ayurvedic Perspective
Treatment and Management
- lifestyle changes such as weight loss through diet and exercise,
- managing diabetes and high blood pressure,
- avoiding alcohol consumption,
- Ayurvedic treatments for the liver will focus on balancing the Pitta dosha using diet, therapies and Yoga and meditation.
Therapies-
Ayurvedic Panchakarma, a traditional Ayurvedic therapy, plays a crucial role in treating fatty liver by detoxifying the body, balancing doshas, and supporting liver function-
- Deep Detoxification: Panchakarma's therapies like Virechana remove toxins from the liver and digestive system.
- Balancing Doshas: Panchakarma restores balance among the body's doshas, particularly Pitta dosha, which is linked to liver health.
- Supporting Liver Function: Specific therapies like Basti cleanse and nourish the liver, aiding its proper function.
- Improving Digestion and Metabolism: Treatments such as Abhyanga, Swedana, and Shirodhara enhance digestion, metabolism, and overall digestive system health
yoga/ asanas-
- Naukasana – Boat Pose
- Marjariasana – Tiger Pose
- Setu Bandhasana – Bridge Pose
- Adho Mukha svanasana – Down facing dog pose
- Bhujangasana – Cobra pose
Home Remedies-
- Milk Thistle (Silymarin): Milk thistle contains silymarin, a compound that protects liver cells. You can take it as a supplement or in tea form to shield your liver from damage.
- Aloe Vera for Liver Health: Aloe vera acts as a natural liver cleanse, reducing inflammation and improving liver function. Drink two tablespoons of aloe vera juice mixed in water each morning on an empty stomach for its benefits.
- Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which boost liver function and reduce damage. Incorporate amla into your diet to support your liver's health and well-being.
Common Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain
- Fluid retention (ascites)
- Enlarged liver
Recommended Treatments
Panchakarma
Classical Ayurvedic cleansing and restoration physician‑supervised, personalised, and gentle. Panchakarma at Atmabodh is a carefully sequenced program that helps release accumulated ama (metabolic waste), calm aggravated doshas, and reset digestion (agni). Every plan is doctor‑led, adapted to your constitution and current state, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when required. Panchakarma supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Suitability is confirmed only after clinical assessment. Who is it for? Digestive & metabolic balance: heaviness, bloating, irregular appetite, sluggishness. Musculoskeletal comfort: stiffness, recurrent aches, postural tension. Skin & scalp support: dryness/roughness, oil imbalance, seasonal flares (as advised). Stress, sleep & mind: restlessness, fatigue, shallow sleep, overdrive. Respiratory ease: seasonal congestion, head–neck load; post‑illness convalescence (only with clearance). Women’s health routines: peri‑menopause transitions, cycle comfort (timed away from menstruation). Eligibility is case‑specific; some conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What are the “Five Actions”? Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – selected kapha presentations. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enema) – anuvāsana (oil), niruha/kashāya (decoction), matra (micro‑dose). Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head–neck pathways, preceded by local prep. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; specialist‑only, strict protocols. Not everyone receives all five; your physician selects the minimum effective pathway. How it works – the three phases Pūrva‑karma (Preparation) Snehana (Oleation): internal ghee/oil titration (if indicated) + external abhyanga. Swedana (Fomentation): steam/heat to soften tissues and mobilise doshas. Diet prep: light, warm, easy‑to‑digest meals; reduction of stimulants. Pradhāna‑karma (Main procedure) The chosen action (e.g., virechana, basti) performed on the medically optimal day. Close monitoring of vitals, comfort, and response. Paśchāt‑karma (Recovery & Rasāyana) Samsarjana‑krama: stepwise diet progression from thin gruels to normal meals. Gentle routine, rest, and targeted rejuvenation. Pre‑program preparation (what we do together) Clinical history, vitals, and relevant labs (as advised). Explain what to expect, precautions, and consent. Set a realistic schedule (typically 10–21+ days depending on goals and responses). Plan for lighter work/social load during intensive days. A typical day during Panchakarma (illustrative) Quiet morning start → vitals & doctor check‑in. Abhyanga (warm oil application) → Swedana (steam) as pre‑procedure. Main procedure on indicated days (e.g., virechana or basti); otherwise supportive care. Simple, warm meals at set times; hydration guidance. Rest, gentle walks, breath‑led relaxation; screen and stimulation kept low. Diet & recovery – Samsarjana‑Krama(post‑procedure) Stage 1: thin rice gruel (peya/kanji). Stage 2: thicker gruel (vilepi). Stage 3: soft rice + light lentils/vegetables (yavāgu/khichri‑style). Stage 4: gradual return to regular, warm, fresh meals. Spices, oils, and portions are adjusted case‑by‑case. No fasting or extremes unless prescribed. Safety, eligibility & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy, active infection/fever, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, severe anemia, active ulcers, recent surgery, frailty, acute psychiatric crises. Medications are not stopped or altered without your treating doctor’s advice. Informed consent; hygienic protocols; vitals monitoring when indicated. We coordinate with your physician upon request. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion, clearer appetite cues, reduced abdominal discomfort. Ease and suppleness in joints and soft tissue. Calmer mind, steadier energy, improved sleep quality. Skin comfort and scalp balance. A renewed baseline for sustainable lifestyle change. Timelines vary. Many guests observe a shift within 2–4 weeks with adherence to guidance. Related Therapies Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga (whole‑body oiling) Snehapāna (measured internal oleation, if indicated) Swedana (steam/sudation) Head–neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara Shiroabhyanga (head–neck oiling) Nasya (also one of the five, used in specific plans) Localized applications Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti (warm oil pooling) Pichu (oil‑soaked pad) Kizhi (Potli) (herbal bolus compress) Udvartana (herbal powder rub) Lepam (herbal paste packs) Recovery & rejuvenation Rasāyana guidance (diet, routine, sleep hygiene, gentle movement) Breath‑led relaxation / Yoga Nidra
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Yoga Therapy
Gentle, evidence‑informed practices tailored to your body, breath, and life. Yoga Therapy at Atmabodh blends classical yogic wisdom with modern therapeutic insights. Each session is personalised focusing on breath, mindful movement, and relaxation to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and restore ease. Why choose Yoga Therapy? Personalised: One‑to‑one care plans based on your goals, abilities, and health history. Whole‑person approach: Works on body, breath, mind, emotions, and daily routines. Safe & gradual: Gentle progressions with options for pain, fatigue, or limited mobility. Integrative: Complements medical treatment and physiotherapy; we coordinate when needed. Practical: Short home practices you can realistically maintain. Yoga Therapy supports your healing journey but does not replace medical care. Please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Who can benefit? Musculoskeletal: Back/neck pain, knee/shoulder issues, postural strain, arthritis. Stress & sleep: Anxiety, burnout, insomnia, overwhelm. Respiratory: Asthma, breathlessness, long‑COVID recovery (post‑medical clearance). Women’s health: Menstrual discomfort, perimenopause symptoms, prenatal/postnatal support. Digestive & metabolic: Indigestion, IBS, lifestyle support for diabetes and hypertension. Neurological & nervous system: Tension headaches, migraine, high reactivity/sensitivity. What happens in a session? Brief check‑in: Current symptoms, energy, mood, medications, red flags. Breath‑led movement: Gentle, pain‑free ranges to mobilise joints and release tension. Stability work: Core and postural support using slow, mindful strengthening. Nervous system down‑shift: Breathwork, guided relaxation, or Yoga Nidra. Mindfulness: Simple focus practices to build present‑moment awareness. Home plan: 10–20 minute routine with clear steps (video/handout provided). Typical session length: 60 minutes (first visit 75–90 minutes for assessment). How it works (in simple steps) Initial assessment – health history, movement screen, breathing patterns, goals. Personalised plan – curated postures, breath ratios, relaxation, daily habits.
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Ayurveda
Root‑cause, constitution‑based care guided by classical Ayurvedic principles, delivered safely by qualified doctors. At Atmabodh, Ayurveda is practised as a comprehensive health system that supports your body’s natural intelligence. We combine physician‑led assessment with personalised diet, lifestyle, and therapies, always gentle, realistic, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when needed. Why choose Ayurveda at Atmabodh? Doctor‑led: Assessment and plan curated by our Ayurvedic physicians. Personalised: Tailored to your prakriti (constitution) and current vikriti (imbalance). Integrative: Safe alongside conventional treatment; we collaborate where appropriate. Structured programs: From simple lifestyle resets to full Panchakarma, with clear milestones. Quality & safety: Hygienic therapy suites, standardised oils and decoctions, trained therapists. Ayurveda at Atmabodh is designed to support well‑being. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment from your medical doctor. Who can benefit? Metabolic & lifestyle support: Energy balance, healthy digestion, routine building. Root‑cause, constitution‑based care guided by classical Ayurvedic principles, delivered safely by qualified doctors. At Atmabodh, Ayurveda is practised as a comprehensive health system that supports your body’s natural intelligence. We combine physician‑led assessment with personalised diet, lifestyle, and therapies, always gentle, realistic, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when needed. Why choose Ayurveda at Atmabodh? Who can benefit? (system‑targeted bullets) Doctor‑led: Assessment and plan curated by our Ayurvedic physicians. Personalised: Tailored to your prakriti (constitution) and current vikriti (imbalance). Integrative: Safe alongside conventional treatment; we collaborate where appropriate. Structured programs: From simple lifestyle resets to full Panchakarma, with clear milestones. Quality & safety: Hygienic therapy suites, standardised oils and decoctions, trained therapists. Ayurveda at Atmabodh is designed to support well‑being. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment from your medical doctor. Metabolic & lifestyle support: Energy balance, healthy digestion, routine building. Musculoskeletal comfort: Joint stiffness, muscular tension, posture‑related strain. Stress & sleep: Nervous system down‑shift, rest quality, mental clarity. Skin & hair care: Scalp and skin nourishment routines. Women’s life stages: Menstrual comfort, perimenopause support, postnatal care. Respiratory ease: Seasonal sensitivity support and nasal hygiene. Timelines vary by individual and adherence; your doctor will set expectations transparently. What happens in an Ayurvedic consult? Case‑taking: Health history, digestion, sleep, stress, menstrual history (if applicable), medications. Examination: Pulse, tongue, skin, eyes, posture, and functional movement as relevant. Assessment: Constitutional mapping (prakriti) and current imbalance (vikriti). Plan: Diet guidance, daily routine (dinacharya), herbs/formulations if suitable, and therapy recommendations. Follow‑up: Review responses, titrate plan, and plan maintenance. Therapies you may receive Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga – warm medicated oil massage for nourishment and circulation. Pizhichil (Taila Dhara) – gentle pouring of warm oil with synchronized strokes. Swedana – steam/sudation post‑oleation for tissue softening and comfort. Head, neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara – steady stream over the forehead for deep relaxation. Shiroabhyanga – head, neck, and shoulder oiling. Karna Pūrana – warm oil ear therapy (as indicated). Localized therapeutic bastis Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti – warm medicated oil pooling on low back/neck/knee/chest. Pichu – medicated oil‑soaked pad application. Cleansing & nasal care Nasya – nasal administration of medicated oils/decoctions, preceded by gentle face/neck prep. Skin & myofascial care Udvartana – herbal powder rub for lymphatic stimulation and skin vitality. Kizhi (Potli) – warm herbal bolus compress (dry/wet) for targeted areas. Lepam – herbal paste packs for local application. Netra Tarpana – eye‑area ghee pooling (specialist‑led only). Therapies are chosen and adapted by the physician based on safety, goals, and season. Panchakarma – the classical cleansing sequence Performed only after adequate preparation and medical clearance; not everyone requires all five. Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – indicated in select kapha conditions. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enemas) – kashaya, anuvasana, or matra varieties per case. Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head‑neck pathway care. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; offered only where clinically justified and compliant. Phases: Purva‑karma (preparation/oleation), Pradhana‑karma (main procedure), Paschat‑karma (recovery, diet progression, lifestyle consolidation). Diet & lifestyle pillars (Dinacharya + Ahara) Meal rhythm: Regular timing; warm, freshly cooked, seasonal foods. Digestive care: Simple spices (as advised), mindful eating, adequate hydration. Sleep hygiene: Wind‑down routine, screen limits, consistent lights‑out. Movement: Gentle yoga/walking; avoid overexertion during intensive therapies. Self‑care: Oil application (abhyanga), nasal hygiene, tongue scraping—only as prescribed. Seasonal living (Ritucharya): Adjust routines, foods, and therapies to the climate. Safety & quality standards Physician review of contraindications: pregnancy, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, acute infections, recent surgery, severe anemia, active ulcers, etc. Informed consent; sterile/clean protocols; monitored vitals when needed. Herbal formulations are classical and doctor‑prescribed; we do not self‑dispense without assessment. We communicate with your treating physician upon request.
View Treatment →FAQs
Q: What is fatty liver according to Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, fatty liver is related to the aggravation of Kapha and Pitta doshas, leading to impaired liver function and excess fat accumulation. It is often linked with Yakrit Roga (liver disorders) caused by poor digestion and toxin build-up (Ama).
Q: What are the causes of fatty liver in Ayurvedic terms?
Fatty liver is caused by excessive intake of oily, fried, and heavy-to-digest foods, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, and poor digestion (Agni Mandya). These factors create Ama (toxins) that accumulate in the liver.
Q: Which doshas are involved in fatty liver disease?
Primarily Kapha (leading to fat accumulation) and Pitta (causing inflammation) are involved. Vata imbalance may also occur in chronic cases.
Q: What are the common symptoms of fatty liver?
Symptoms may include heaviness in the abdomen, poor digestion, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and mild pain in the right upper abdomen.
Q: Can Ayurveda cure fatty liver completely?
Ayurveda aims to reverse fatty liver by improving digestion, balancing doshas, removing toxins, and regenerating liver cells. The extent of recovery depends on the stage of the disease and lifestyle changes.
Q: What Ayurvedic herbs are used for fatty liver treatment?
Common herbs include Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), and Triphala for detoxification.
Q: What dietary changes are recommended in Ayurveda for fatty liver?
Light, warm, easily digestible foods like moong dal, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains are recommended. Avoid fried foods, red meat, excess sugar, and alcohol.
Q: How does Panchakarma help in fatty liver treatment?
Panchakarma therapies like Virechana (therapeutic purgation), Basti (medicated enema), and Abhyanga (oil massage) help remove toxins, improve metabolism, and restore liver health.
Q: Is Ayurvedic treatment safe for all stages of fatty liver?
Yes, Ayurvedic treatment is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified practitioner, but results vary depending on the severity of the condition.
Q: How long does it take to see improvement with Ayurvedic treatment for Fatty Liver?
Mild fatty liver may show improvement within 2–3 months with proper diet, lifestyle changes, and herbal therapy. Severe cases may take longer.
Q: Can fatty liver be reversed naturally with Ayurveda?
Yes, with proper herbal medicines, Panchakarma, diet correction, and lifestyle discipline, fatty liver can be reversed in many cases.