Abstract
Background: Liver has an important function in metabolic processes and detoxification. In Ayurveda, Yakrit (liver) is considered as an important organ associated with Raktavaha Srotas (blood-carrying channels) and Annavaha Srotas (digestive channels). The primary Dosha (functional bio-energy) affecting liver function is Pitta Dosha (metabolic energy). As per classical literature, vitiation of Pitta and Rakta Dosha (blood tissue) due to various etiological factors results in Yakrit Vikara (liver disorders). These etiological factors are broadly classified into Aaharaja (dietary), Viharaja (lifestyle-related), and Manasika (psychological) factors. Objective: To study the correlation between the Ayurveda etiological factors with changes in liver function tests. Methods: A clinical study was performed on 60 subjects having abnormal liver function tests. A structured history was taken to assess the presence of Aaharaja, Viharaja, and Manasika Nidana. Important liver function parameters such as serum bilirubin, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT/AST), and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT/ALT) were recorded. Results: A high prevalence of Pitta-aggravating dietary factors such as Ati-Ushna-Katu Ahara (excessively hot and pungent food) (68.3%) and Ati-Tikshna Ahara (excessively sharp/spicy food) (65%) was observed. Among lifestyle-related causes, Bharavahana (heavy physical exertion) (63.3%) and Ati-Maithuna (excessive sexual activity) (61.7%) were common. Among psychological causes, Krodha (anger) (70%) and Ati-Chinta (excessive worry/stress) (60%) showed high prevalence. Patients with multiple etiological factors demonstrated higher SGPT and bilirubin levels, suggesting a cumulative effect on liver function. Conclusion: The findings suggest that all the three variety of causative factors play a significant role in influencing liver function. The concept of Nidana Parivarjana (avoidance of causative factors) is therefore important in the prevention and management of liver disorders. An integrative approach combining Ayurveda principles with modern biochemical assessment may be beneficial for early detection and management of liver dysfunction.

Key words: Liver function tests; dietary factors; lifestyle factors; psychological stress; Ayurveda; Pitta Dosha (metabolic energy); Yakrit Vikara (liver disorders)