Jaundice

Jaundice is a condition where the skin and the whites of the eyes take on a yellow tint. Modern medicine does not consider it to be a disease but a symptom of liver disorders like liver infection, gallstones and cirrhosis of liver. In Ayurveda, Jaundice is known as Kamala.

Causes

Increased intake of oily, spicy, sour, salty, alkaline, penetrating and very hot foods; alcohol; and sesame oil cause Pitta (Ayurvedic humor representing Fire) aggravation. The aggravated Pitta then impairs the blood and the muscle tissue of the liver, causing blockage in the channels of the liver and thus Pitta (in the form of bile) is thrown back into the blood leading to discoloration of the eyes and skin. Sleeping in the daytime, excessive physical work, overindulgence in sexual activity, suppressing the natural urges of the body, and psychological factors like lust, fear, anger, and stress can also be causative factors in cases of Jaundice.

Symptoms

  • Drowsiness
  • Weakness
  • Fatigue
  • Yellowish discoloration of the eyes, skin and nail
  • Flatulence
  • Lack of appetite
  • Burning sensation in the body
  • Low-grade fever
  • Indigestion
  • Excessive thirst
  • Loss of libido