What is Ascites? Symptoms and Ayurvedic Approach for its Treatment

Ascites is the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, which is the space within the abdomen that houses the intestines, liver, and other organs. This condition is often associated with liver disease, particularly cirrhosis, but can also be caused by heart failure, kidney disease, cancer, and infections.

Main Symptoms of Ascites

1. Abdominal Swelling: The most noticeable symptom, due to the accumulation of fluid.
2. Weight Gain: Rapid weight gain as fluid accumulates.
3. Discomfort and Pain: Feeling of heaviness, discomfort, or pain in the abdomen.
4. Shortness of Breath: Due to pressure on the diaphragm.
5. Bloating: Feeling of fullness and bloating.
6. Decreased Appetite: Feeling full quickly when eating.
7. Nausea: Sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
8. Fatigue: General weakness and tiredness.
9. Edema: Swelling in the legs and ankles.

Ayurvedic Approach to Ascites

Liver Care Tablet
This tablets are 100% safe and purely ayurvedic formulation. It maintains the proper functioning of the liver and stimulates the growth of new liver cells. Liver Care Tablets contains Ingredients like Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Kutaki(Picrorhiza kurroa), Bhumi amla( phyllanthus niruri), Giloy(Tinopora Cordifolia), Yavakshar( Hordeum vulgare), Imli Kshar( Tamarindus indica), Mukta Shukta pisti etc. These herbs balances excess Pitta Dosha and helps in problems like abdominal bloating,flatulence, abdominal pain, loss of appetite and indigestion.
In Ayurveda, ascites is referred to as “Jalodara,” a type of Udara Roga (disease of the abdomen). It is believed to be caused by an imbalance in the Doshas, particularly Kapha and Vata. Ayurveda focuses on balancing these Doshas and improving the function of the liver and kidneys.

Ayurvedic Herbs and Treatments for Ascites

1. Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa): Known for its diuretic properties, it helps in reducing fluid accumulation.
2. Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris): A diuretic and anti-inflammatory herb that supports kidney function.
3. Triphala: A combination of three fruits (Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki) that help in detoxifying the body and improving digestion.
4. Kumari (Aloe vera): Helps in liver detoxification and improving digestion.
5. Varuna (Crataeva nurvala): Known for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Shilajit: Helps in improving liver function and overall vitality.
7. Punarnavarishta: An Ayurvedic formulation used to reduce swelling and fluid retention.
8. Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna): Strengthens heart function and improves circulation.

Other Ayurvedic Practices

1. Panchakarma: Detoxification treatments like Virechana (therapeutic purgation) and Basti (medicated enema) to remove toxins and balance Doshas.
2. Diet: A Kapha-pacifying diet, which includes light, dry, and easily digestible foods. Avoiding salty, oily, and heavy foods.
3. Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding alcohol and smoking.

Note

Ayurvedic treatment should be undertaken under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner, especially for conditions like ascites which can be serious and may require integrated care with conventional medicine.