FROM SAKHASRITA KAMALA TO SURGICAL JAUNDICE: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW ON THE AYURVEDIC ROOTS OF OBSTRUCTIVE HEPATOBILIARY PATHOLOGY

📄 Abstract

Surgical jaundice, a condition characterised by obstruction to the physiological flow of bile from the liver to the duodenum, finds its earliest conceptual foundation in the Ayurvedic description of Margavarodha Janya Vikara, particularly Sakhasrita Kamala. The classical delineation of Kapha-induced obstruction of Pitta Prav?tti and Vata-driven displacement of Pitta into the Sakhas reflects a remarkably precise understanding of the pathophysiological sequence that modern medicine identifies as obstructive or surgical jaundice. It may thus be inferred that the fundamental principles underlying the modern comprehension of jaundice and its obstructive variants were, in essence, envisioned within the Ayurvedic framework, where the concepts of Avarana, Do?a Sa?murcchana, and Srotorodha collectively elucidate the mechanism of biliary obstruction described today. Ayurveda’s therapeutic rationale emphasises Kapha-hara, Vata-anulomana, and Pittanulomana measures to restore normal bile flow, while Anusastra Karma is advocated when internal Avarodha or structural pathology persists. Among these, K?ara Karma, with its Lekhana, Chedana, and Bhedana properties, assists in dissolving Ama and Kapha, re-establishing Srotas patency; Agnikarma stimulates localised Agni and mitigates Kapha-Medo Avarodha; and Rakta Mok?a?a enhances hepatic circulation and aids detoxification. The classical references to Pittasaya Asmari by Acarya Charaka and Sastra Karma indications by Acarya Susruta illustrate an advanced surgical vision consistent with the principles of hepatobiliary management. Hence, both classical and contemporary perspectives converge upon the same therapeutic goal—Margavivarana, or the removal of obstruction and restoration of natural flow. This review thus highlights the depth of Ayurvedic surgical and pathophysiological reasoning, demonstrating that the conceptual roots of modern hepatobiliary understanding are deeply embedded in Ayurvedic science.

🏷️ Keywords

📚 How to Cite:

Dr. Nihal Gopan , Dr. Bharathi D Anvekar , Dr. Manjunath S Naregal , Dr Monisha CJ , FROM SAKHASRITA KAMALA TO SURGICAL JAUNDICE: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW ON THE AYURVEDIC ROOTS OF OBSTRUCTIVE HEPATOBILIARY PATHOLOGY , Volume 11 , Issue 11, November 2025, EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR) ,