Reduce the burden of Portal Hypertension with Ayurveda

Two factors can increase blood pressure in the portal blood vessels: Increased volume of blood flowing through the vessels, and the increased resistance to the blood flow through the liver. Portal hypertension leads to the development of new veins (called collateral vessels) that directly connect the portal blood vessels to the general circulation, bypassing the liver. Because of this bypass, substances (such as auto-toxins) that are normally removed from the blood by the liver can pass into the general circulation. When substances that are normally removed from the liver pass into the general circulation and reach the brain, they may cause confusion or drowsiness (hepatic encephalopathy).

Portal hypertension often causes the spleen to enlarge because the pressure interferes with blood flow from the spleen into the portal blood vessels. Pressure in the portal blood vessels may cause protein-containing (ascitic) fluid from the surface of the liver and intestine to leak into the abdominal cavity. This condition is called ascites. Because most people with portal hypertension also have severe liver dysfunction, they may have symptoms of liver failure, such as a tendency to bleed.

Diagnosis: An ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan should be used.

Treatment: There is no definite treatment in modern medicine to correct severe liver dysfunctions. To reduce the risk of bleeding from esophageal varices, a doctor may try to reduce pressure in the portal vein. One way is to drugs such as propranolol or nadolol. Trans-jugular intrahepatic shunt (TIPS) may be considered as rescue management for refractory ascites secondary to portal hypertension, but caution in respect to the presence and/or development of peritoneal or other ectopic haematopoesis has to be taken.
In Modern Science the condition is incurable while in ayurveda we have noticed success in many cases. It takes a long time to make the liver normal but the recovery is seen within 6-8 weeks. Jalodar Rasayana is found effective in relieving retention, portal hypertension due to chronic liver and spleen disorders. The active ingredients are Yakrit-pleehari Lauh 65 mg, Ashwakanchuki 65 mg, Punarnava (B. diffusa) Ext 200 mg and Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) Ext 100 mg processed in cow’s urine distillate.

Caution: Ayurvedic medicines are known to contain arsenic and concentrations up to toxic levels have been reported in certain formulations. Ayurvedic medications should be consumed under strict guidance and supervision of qualified practitioners to prevent complications.