Ascites Treatment using Ayurvedic Medicines and Panchakarma Therapies

When there is fluid in your abdomen resulting in swelling and discomfort, it is more than just pain; it affects your daily life, confidence, and hope for a resolution of your ascites. If you have ascites, don't worry; it can be treated successfully using Ayurvedic methodologies. While current modern treatments can help you in emergencies to manage ascites through interventions like tapping, Ayurveda for ascites supports an all-encompassing, root-cause treatment that addresses the underlying imbalance causing retention of fluid.

At Yukti Herbs, we have successfully helped many patients with ascites using our personalised Panchkarma therapies for the ‘Ascites Treatment Protocol’ as well as classical Ayurvedic protocols. Ayurveda does not simply drain the fluid; it restores your body's natural balance, builds your digestive fire, and prevents a recurrence. 

What is ascites according to Ayurveda?

Ascites, in simple terms, defines an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity. Ayurveda correlates the condition with 'Jalodara' (accumulation of liquid in the abdomen), specifically, a type of 'Udara Roga' (disease of the abdomen).

The essential principle of ascites treatment in Ayurveda is to reverse the dysregulation affecting the body that caused it. These issues are largely a result of a significant disturbance of Agni (the digestive fire) and an imbalance of Pitta Dosha and Kapha Dosha.

• Agni Disturbance: Compromised digestion and metabolism lead to suboptimal absorption and filtration of fluids.

• Pitta Disturbance: Leads to inflammation and Ama, a toxic buildup in the digestive tract.

• Kapha Disturbance: It directly implicates fluid accumulation and heaviness.

These variables lead to the blockage of the channel, or Srotas, in the body, particularly the Srotas for fluid (Ambuvaha Srotas). The blockage is a blockage, and the water is being forced to "leak" in the abdominal space.

Shloka Reference:

यस्य वातः प्रकुपितस्त्वङ्मांसान्तरमाश्रित | शोथं सञ्जनयेत् कुक्षावुदरं तस्य जायते ||

Translation: When aggravated Vata enters the spaces between the skin and muscle tissues, it causes swelling in the abdominal region that further progresses into Udara Roga (abdominal swelling and fluid build-up), particularly Jalodara (fluid build-up).¹

This is in direct alignment with the Ayurvedic determination of disturbed Doshas, especially that of Vata, combined with weak Agni and excess fluid that creates the abdominal swelling and fluid buildup.

Three Stages of Ascites (Jalodara) in Ayurveda and How Ayurveda Manages Ascites at Its Different Stages

Grasping the stages of Ascites management and treatment through the lens of Ayurveda is important in order to treat it effectively.
The classics of Ayurveda describe three stages of Jalodara disease progression.

1. Ajatodaka Avastha (Initial Stage)

The first stage is when there is little or no fluid collected in the peritoneal cavity. The abdomen has a pinkish colouration, and the capillary network is visibly exaggerated. Presenting symptoms include:

• mild abdominal heaviness, 

• mild distension, and 

• mild gastric discomfort
  

This is the easiest stage in which complete resolution can be achieved through Ayurvedic treatment and interventions.

2. Picch Avastha (Moderate Stage)

In this stage, fluid, which is sticky and viscous in nature, starts to accumulate in the abdomen. 

How an Ascites Patient Feels:

• decrease in appetite, 

• mild oedema in the legs,

• Fatigue

• The abdomen is moderately distended, and

• discomfort in the abdomen

This stage is the time when treatment can still work extremely well.

3. Jatodak Avastha (Terminal Stage)

The Jatodakawastha stage represents the advanced stage of ascites. In this phase, significant fluid accumulation has occurred.

How an Ascites Patient Feels:

• major shortness of breath,

• evident pedal oedema,

• systemic weakness, and

• The abdomen is hugely distended

This stage is the most challenging, yet it responds nicely to proper Ayurvedic management at a high level with careful guidance.

Core Steps in Ayurveda To Treat Ascites: Ascites Natural Treatment

Treating Ascites (Jalodara) involves two important aspects: 

• Improving the internal system (Shamana Chikitsa ); and 

• Eliminating the liquid load (Shodhana Chikitsa)

1. Internal Medicine (Shamana)

This consists of prescribing specific herbal formulas to alleviate ascites and restore function to the liver (Yakrit), spleen (Pleeha), and digestive system.

• Deepana & Pachana (Kindling the Agni): The use of herbs to kindle the digestive fire is key to metabolising toxins and preventing further accumulation.

• Mutrala (Diuretics): Nature has provided us with a number of effective Ayurvedic diuretics that can treat ascites, helping the kidneys to excrete the accumulated fluid. Unlike certain conventionally prescribed diuretics, Ayurvedic Mutrala herbs (such as Punarnava and Gokshura) are commonly combined with balancing herbs designed to protect the kidneys; therefore, Mutrala is a foundational part of natural ascites treatment.

2. Panchakarma for Ascites: Natural Therapies to Reduce Abdominal Fluid

For lasting results, particularly at the advanced stage, it becomes crucial to remove that accumulated fluid from the abdomen with the help of panchakarma.

Panchakarma therapy for abdominal fluid is done so systematically in order to remove obstructions, restore organ function to the liver and kidneys, and ensure that fluid dynamics can be corrected from within the body.

1. Nitya Virechana (Daily Treatment Purgation)

Nitya Virechana is the primary therapy for ascites in Ayurveda. This procedure consists of  5-8 carefully controlled daily bowel cleansing with the help of herbal products like Abhayadi Modaka, which contains Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Pippali (Piper longum), and other herbs.

How It Works:

• Eliminates built-up ama (toxins) from the GI tract

• Reduces excess fluid in the peritoneal cavity by promoting the elimination of fluid from the bowel

• Dissolves strotavrodh (channels obstruction) and restores normal fluid metabolism

• Significantly decreases abdominal girth in about 2-3 weeks (with ongoing treatment)

Shloka Reference:           

दोषातिमात्रोपचयात् स्रोतोमार्गनिरोधनात् | सम्भवत्युदरं तस्मान्नित्यमेव विरेचयेत् || 

Translation - Ascites increased due to excessively aggravated doshas and strotas (channels) clogging. Therefore, the patient shall undergo daily Virechana (purgation).²

Natural Remedies For Ascites: Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

Ayurvedic herbal/natural remedies emphasise that proper nutrition is of equal importance to medicine. Specific dietary guidelines are provided for one dealing with ascites. These remedies with panchakarma for ascites help reduce ascites naturally.

Foods to Avoid

• High salt and salty foods aggravate the accumulation of fluids

• All heavy, oily, and fried foods stress the digestive capacity

• Opposing foods (Viruddha Ahara)

• Cold water and drinks

• Excessive fluid consumption

Foods to Eat

• Light-type, warm, and easily digestible food

• Barley water (Yava Kshara)

• Moong dal and other light pulses

• Bottle gourd and other light vegetables 

• Lukewarm water throughout the day 

Use of Takra And Godugdha (Buttermilk and Cow/Goat/Buffalo Milk) 

In Ayurveda, the use of buttermilk and Cow/Goat/Buffalo milk is advised in ascites, as it is beneficial in promoting the detoxification process. 

Shloka Reference:

नातिसान्द्रं हितं पाने स्वादु तक्रमपेलवम् l त्र्यूषणक्षारलवणैर्युक्तं तु निचयोदरी ll

शोफानाहार्तितृण्मूर्च्छापीडिते कारभं पयः l शुद्धानां क्षामदेहानां गव्यं छागं समाहिषम् ll

Translation

• For patients suffering from inflammation, bloating, weakness, or discomfort due to Udara (ascites), goat’s milk is recommended. After purification treatments, cow, goat, or buffalo milk can restore strength in someone who has become weak.³

• Light, diluted buttermilk is especially useful for drinking in ascites, and when combined with Trikatu or alkalis or salts, it is more effective for relieving fluid accumulation and clearing lymphatic obstruction.4

The Yukti Herbs Method: Comprehensive, Individualised Management for Ascites

At Yukti Herbs – Multispecialty Ayurveda & Panchakarma Hospital, we understand that every patient with ascites has a different condition.

Ascites Treatment Protocol at Yukti Herbs

1. Comprehensive Evaluation

• Traditional Ashtavidha Pariksha (the eightfold evaluation): pulse, tongue and dosha and other physical and physiological components.

• Integration of modern diagnostics: a clear understanding of liver function and volume of fluid.

• Evaluation of Agni (digestive fire), dosha state of imbalance and stage of disease.

2. Individual Care Treatment Plan

• Individualised Panchakarma therapies of Nitya Virechana, Basti and Swedana.

• GMP-certified herbal products are produced for purity and effectiveness.

• Hepatoprotective medicines, eg Arogyavardhini Vati, Punarnavadi Kwatha and medicines specific for the condition.

• Introduction of Takra and Godugdha in your diet plan with appropriate food guidelines.

• We have IPD facilities too, and generally advise such patients to stay at the hospital for 7-21 days to manage their condition in a better way. 

3. Professional, Knowledgeable Additions

• We have MD, PhD specialists in Ayurveda with extensive training in liver and abdominal diseases

• We use AYUSH-certified therapists for authentic Panchakarma

• We provide 24x7 follow-up support and telemedicine consultations for remote patients

• IPD patients get an opportunity to have an Ayurvedic Diet & Lifestyle recommended for Ascites patients. 

4. Healing of the Whole Person

• Counselling on lifestyle and stress management, and yoga therapy when patients stay with us.

• Treatment focused on the prevention of recurrence through sustainable habits

• Education on long-term digestive health
  

Conclusion: Your Path to Healing Naturally at Yukti Herbs

Ascites does not have to ruin your life. While conventional medicine may offer only symptomatic relief, Ayurveda for Ascites has a totally different story: complete healing, restoring balance in your body, and preventing it from coming back! 

The ancient wisdom described in classical texts, including the Charaka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita, provides effective protocols that address not only the fluid buildup but also its cause and the underlying metabolic upset that led to fluid buildup. With the Ayurvedic protocols of Panchakarma therapy for abdominal fluid, herbal remedies for ascites and your personalised nutritional changes, you can be on your way to restoring your body's natural ability to manage fluid levels.

Start Your Natural Healing Journey Today!

Book your consultation with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner today at Yukti Herbs and discuss your path to healing from ascites, including a personalised treatment plan that can impact your health.

References: 

1. Charak Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 18, Shloka 31

2. Charak Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 13, Shloka 61

3. Charak Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 13, Shloka 101

4. Charak Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 13, Shloka 107

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