Understanding Samprapti of Liver Cirrhosis in Ayurvedic Perspective

Background: Liver diseases, particularly fatty liver disease and cirrhosis, are emerging as major global health challenges due to rapid dietary and lifestyle transitions. Ayurveda describes liver disorders under Yakrit Roga, emphasizing deranged Agni, Ama formation, and Dosha-Dushya Sammurchhana as key pathogenic factors. Epidemiological data indicate approximately 2 million liver-related deaths annually worldwide, with significant contributions from cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Data from developing countries like India remain limited. Objective: To systematically review and correlate modern biomedical concepts of liver cirrhosis with Ayurvedic principles of Yakrit Roga, highlighting pathogenesis, epidemiological burden, and scope for integrative understanding. Material and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across classical Ayurvedic texts and modern biomedical databases. Relevant review articles, original research papers, and epidemiological studies on chronic liver disorders which leads to liver cirrhosis were screened and analysed. Results: The review identified strong parallels between Ayurvedic and modern descriptions of liver disease progression. Modern cirrhosis, characterized by fibrosis, architectural distortion, and hepatic dysfunction, correlates with Ayurvedic concepts of Ama-induced Srotorodha and progressive Yakrit Vikara. Conclusion: Liver cirrhosis can be understood as a progressive manifestation of Yakrit roga resulting from Agni Dushti, Ama formation, Srotorodha, and Dosha-Dushya Sammurchhana involving Rasa and Rakta Dhatu. This conceptual framework closely correlates with the chronic structural and functional deterioration of the liver observed in modern medicine. Understanding the Samprapti of liver cirrhosis in Ayurveda highlights the importance of early diagnosis, Nidana Parivarjana, and integrative therapeutic strategies for prevention and disease progression control.