Ayurvedic management of alcoholic liver disease and psoriasis

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic management of alcoholic liver disease and psoriasis”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Vikara:
Vikaras denotes the various disorders or diseases present in individuals, indicating deviations from healthy states. In Ayurveda, diagnosing Vikaras involves analyzing imbalances among doshas and dhatus, guiding practitioners in formulating effective treatment protocols to restore health and well-being based on individual presentations.

2) Yakrit (Yakrt):
'Yakrit' translates to liver in Ayurveda and represents a critical organ involved in detoxification and metabolism. Liver health is pivotal as it influences various bodily functions, including digestion and blood purification. Disorders related to Yakrit are categorized under 'Yakrit Vikara,' necessitating specific treatments to restore its optimal functional state.

3) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana is a branch of Ayurveda focused on rejuvenation and the promotion of longevity. It involves the use of certain herbal formulations and lifestyle practices that enhance the vitality of tissues (Dhatus). Rasayana helps combat aging, fortifies health, and boosts immunity, promoting holistic wellness and overall vitality in individuals.

4) Bhringaraja (Bhrngaraja, Bhringa-raja, Bhrimgaraja):
Bhringaraja, also known as Eclipta alba, is an important herb in Ayurveda known for its hepatoprotective and rejuvenating properties. It is valued for its potential to nourish the liver and skin. Its inclusion in treatment protocols targets both Yakrit and Twak Vikara by enhancing detoxification and healing properties when administered orally or topically.

5) Samana (Shamana):
Shamana refers to a therapeutic modality in Ayurveda aimed at alleviating symptoms and doshic imbalances without inducing rigorous cleansing processes. This approach focuses on the administration of medicines that pacify doshas and restore balance. It serves as a vital component of Ayurvedic treatment to manage chronic and acute conditions effectively.

6) Itching:
Itching is a common symptom associated with numerous skin disorders, including psoriasis and allergic reactions. In Ayurvedic terms, it is often linked with excess Pitta and is considered a manifestation of skin (Twak) ailments. The management involves identifying root causes and employing herbal remedies to alleviate the sensation and underlying issues.

7) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are the fundamental energies in Ayurvedic medicine that govern physiological and psychological aspects of health. There are three primary doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, whose balance is essential for maintaining health. Imbalance among these doshas can lead to various diseases, necessitating targeted treatments to restore harmony.

8) Taila (Thaila):
'Taila' means oil in Sanskrit and plays a significant role in Ayurvedic therapies. Ayurvedic oils contain herbs infused in base oils, promoting nourishment and healing to the skin and body. Taila can be used both therapeutically (internally and externally) and for lifestyle practices, enhancing the effectiveness of treatment protocols.

9) Pitta:
Pitta is a vital dosha that embodies the elements of fire and water, governing metabolism and transformation in the body. An imbalance in Pitta may lead to heat-related disorders, inflammation, and skin issues. Ayurvedic treatments often focus on pacifying Pitta through dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and specific herbal remedies to restore balance.

10) Rakta:
'Rakta' refers to blood, considered one of the seven dhatus in Ayurveda. It plays an essential role in nourishing tissues and supporting overall health. Understanding Rakta's health is crucial for diagnosing and managing disorders related to blood quality and circulation, impacting multiple organ systems and overall vitality.

11) Parisheka (Pariseka):
Pariseka is a form of external treatment in Ayurveda that involves the pouring of herbal-infused oils or decoctions over the body. This method aims to nourish the skin, relieve discomfort, and promote healing in conditions like Kitibha Kushta while also providing a calming and therapeutic experience for the patient.

12) Disease:
Diseases in Ayurveda reflect the manifestation of imbalances among doshas, dhatus, and srotas. The classification and understanding of diseases guide practitioners in reconnaissance to develop treatment protocols addressing specific imbalances. A holistic perspective on diseases emphasizes prevention and restoration of health through a blend of medicinal and lifestyle strategies.

13) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the seven basic tissues in Ayurveda, namely Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra. These foundational components are essential for health, and imbalances in Dhatus can lead to disease. Understanding Dhatus facilitates practitioners in diagnosing issues effectively, guiding holistic treatments to restore health.

14) Nimba:
Nimba, also known as Neem, is a medicinal herb celebrated in Ayurveda for its potent therapeutic properties, particularly in detoxification and skin health. It works on balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas and is often used in formulations for its blood-purifying and antimicrobial attributes, promoting overall health and wellness.

15) Bahis (Bahish, Bahih):
'Bahir' translates to external, specifically regarding therapies or treatments applied outside of the body. This encompasses approaches like Pariseka (pouring), Taila application, and the use of external medications to address visible symptoms or conditions, complementing internal Ayurvedic treatments for a holistic healing process.

16) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana is a purification process in Ayurveda aimed at detoxifying and cleansing the body from accumulated toxins (Ama). It is essential in preparing patients for treatment, ensuring any imbalances are effectively addressed to restore health. This methodology enhances efficacy when combined with Shamana (palliative) treatments.

17) Kitibha:
Kitibha refers to a type of psoriasis in Ayurveda characterized by scaly lesions, primarily attributed to the vitiation of all three doshas, especially Kapha and Vata. Understanding Kitibha allows practitioners to devise effective treatment plans targeting skin restoration and underlying health concerns, employing both internal and external medications.

18) Dhatri (Dhatr):
Dhatri is a term often used for Amalaki (Amla), a revered fruit in Ayurveda known for its rich source of vitamin C and antioxidant properties. It is utilized in formulations like Dhatri Loha for its rejuvenating attributes and effects on digestion and blood health, contributing substantially to Rasayana therapies.

19) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by elements of earth and water. It governs structure, stability, and lubrication in the body. An imbalance in Kapha may lead to conditions involving excess moisture, heaviness, and sluggishness, necessitating dietary and lifestyle modifications tailored to restore balance.

20) Vata:
Vata is the Ayurvedic dosha representing elements of air and ether, governing movement and communication in the body. This dosha influences bodily functions ranging from circulation to nerve impulses. Imbalance in Vata can result in anxiety, dryness, and other disorders, making its management critical for overall health.

21) Dushya (Dusya):
'Dushya' refers to the substratum or tissues affected by disease in Ayurveda, indicating the areas that experience pathological changes. Understanding Dushya helps clinicians identify target sites for treatment, tailoring therapies to alleviate imbalances in affected tissues and restore health across multiple bodily systems.

22) Nidana:
Nidana translates to the cause of a disease or condition, critical for diagnosing and understanding patient ailments in Ayurveda. Identifying Nidana allows practitioners to develop treatment strategies aimed at eliminating root causes and restoring balance, showcasing the holistic approach integral to Ayurvedic healthcare practices.

23) Study (Studying):
'Study' refers to the investigation or examination of a specific subject matter. In the context of Ayurveda, study encompasses researching various herbs, therapies, and case reports to inform treatment decisions and validate the effectiveness of traditional practices in restoring health and managing diseases holistically.

24) Loha:
'Loha' means iron in Sanskrit and is often used in Ayurvedic formulations to enhance blood quality and overall health. It is considered an essential mineral for maintaining vitality and is frequently incorporated in Rasayana preparations to support the body's oxygen-carrying capacity and treat conditions related to blood deficiencies.

25) Nimbapatra (Nimba-patra):
Nimba-patra refers specifically to the leaves of the Neem tree, widely recognized for their medicinal properties in Ayurveda. These leaves are used for their detoxifying and purifying actions, helpful in addressing skin conditions and restoring balance in Pitta and Kapha doshas, reflected in many traditional remedies.

26) Samprapti:
Samprapti denotes the biological process by which diseases develop, encompassing all stages leading to a particular health condition. This concept aids practitioners in understanding the progression of diseases in relation to doshic imbalances, guiding effective treatments to break the cycle of disorder and restore health in patients.

27) Karnataka:
Karnataka is a state in India known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional healing practices, including Ayurveda. The state has numerous educational institutions and healthcare facilities dedicated to promoting Ayurvedic therapies, providing a foundation for continued study and implementation of these ancient medicinal practices in modern contexts.

28) Lakshana (Laksana):
'Lakshana' refers to the signs and symptoms associated with a disorder in Ayurveda. Identifying Lakshana allows practitioners to diagnose specific conditions accurately. This framework ensures that treatments are tailored to an individual's unique presentation, enabling effective management of health issues based on observable criteria.

29) Pradhana:
Pradhana means primary or predominant, often used in Ayurvedic literature to denote the main doshas involved in a disease or the primary symptoms to be addressed during treatment. Understanding which elements are Pradhana aids practitioners in prioritizing treatment strategies for an effective resolution of health concerns.

30) Aushadhi (Ausadhi, Ausadhin, Aushadhin):
'Aushadhi' translates to medicine or medicinal herbs used in treatments, emphasizing the significance of plant-based remedies in Ayurveda. This term describes the wide array of natural substances that practitioners utilize to address various ailments and restore balance among the three doshas, enhancing holistic wellness.

31) Ashraya (Asraya):
Ashraya signifies the site or locus that supports or harbors a disease. In Ayurveda, understanding where a particular imbalance or condition resides helps in targeting treatments effectively, ensuring that remedies are administered precisely at the locus of imbalance to promote healing and recovery.

32) Siddha:
'Siddha' signifies perfected or accomplished in the context of Ayurveda, often referring to herbal formulations that have been refined through traditional practices. Siddha processes emphasize quality and efficacy, ensuring that the therapeutic properties of herbs are maximized for effective treatment outcomes in various health conditions.

33) Eranda (Eramda):
Eranda, commonly known as castor oil, is an important medicinal herb in Ayurveda, recognized for its purgative properties. It serves as a detoxifying agent to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins (Ama) and is often included in treatments to alleviate symptoms related to various doshic imbalances effectively.

34) Nature:
Nature in Ayurveda reflects the intrinsic qualities of herbs, doshas, and the environment, largely determining health outcomes. Understanding the natural characteristics of these components helps practitioners tailor treatments, aligning interventions with the body's natural rhythms to foster holistic healing and improved well-being.

35) Patra:
'Patra' means leaf, especially in the context of herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine. Leaves, such as those from Nimba or Bhringaraja, provide potent therapeutic properties that contribute to treatments for various ailments. Their application can be internal or external, targeting specific health issues effectively.

36) Ushna (Usna):
'Ushna' translates to warm or hot, describing a quality of herbs or foods that influence the body's internal thermoregulation and doshic balance. In Ayurveda, Ushna is often employed to counteract coldness in the body, particularly in conditions related to Vata and Kapha imbalances.

37) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to taste or the essence of a substance in Ayurveda, influencing bodily functions and promoting overall health. Each of the six tastes impacts digestion, metabolism, and doshic balance, guiding dietary choices to restore equilibrium and address various health conditions effectively.

38) Jala:
'Jala' signifies water, an important element in Ayurveda for hydration, detoxification, and as a medium for medicinal preparations. Water not only sustains life but is also essential for various treatments and dietary management, aiding in achieving balance and cleansing the body of impurities.

39) Line:
In the context of Ayurvedic medicine, 'line' represents a specific approach or pathway in treatment strategies. Establishing clear lines of treatment helps in systematic interventions, ensuring that practitioners follow established protocols for managing ailments based on thorough assessments and classifications.

40) Anulomana:
'Anulomana' refers to the procedure that promotes the natural flow of doshas, particularly in aiding digestion and elimination of waste. It focuses on easing the body's processes to clear blockages, aligning treatments with the fundamental principles of Ayurveda to restore overall health.

41) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated refers to the state of being disturbed, impaired, or harmed, particularly in relation to bodily functions or doshic balances in Ayurveda. Assessing which elements are vitiated helps practitioners formulate effective treatment plans aimed at restoring normalcy and harmony within the body, crucial for whole-person health.

42) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the balance of bodily systems through diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing. Its holistic approach to health integrates physical, mental, and spiritual aspects, promoting individual wellness and disease prevention, rooted in the concept of maintaining harmony among the three doshas.

43) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha is a foundational concept in Ayurveda, encompassing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha as the three governing principles of physiology. Each dosha represents unique characteristics, and their balance is essential for health. Understanding Tridosha guides practitioners in diagnosing conditions and forming effective treatment strategies aimed at restoring equilibrium.

44) Bhunimba (Bhu-nimba):
Bhunimba, or Andrographis paniculata, is a medicinal herb used in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory and liver-protective properties. It aids in detoxification processes and manifests benefits for skin ailments, aligning well with treatments for conditions involving Pitta and Kapha imbalances, promoting overall health and vitality.

45) Upakrama:
Upakrama refers to the method or means of treatment in Ayurveda, emphasizing the necessity of tailored therapeutic approaches based on an individual's unique constitution and health conditions. Effective Upakrama integrates dietary, herbal, and lifestyle modifications to promote recovery and enhance well-being holistically.

46) Sthanika:
'Sthanika' describes treatments or applications designated for localized areas of the body. This localized approach in Ayurveda allows for targeted therapy, especially for skin manifestations, making it a crucial part of therapeutic modalities that address specific doshic and tissue imbalances effectively.

47) Kshudra (Ksudra):
'Kshudra' is a term used for minor or lesser ailments in Ayurveda, often related to superficial or manageable conditions. Though considered less severe, Kshudra can impact overall health and may require effective management to prevent escalation into more significant health issues through appropriate therapeutic approaches.

48) Sparsha (Sparsa):
Sparsha refers to touch or sensation, vital in Ayurveda for understanding patient symptoms and physical assessments. Recognizing changes in Sparsha contributes to diagnosis and treatment planning, as alterations in texture, warmth, and sensitivity highlight underlying doshic imbalances and inform therapeutic interventions.

49) Kashaya (Kasaya):
'Kashaya' translates to astringent, one of the six tastes in Ayurveda, known for promoting stability and reducing moisture in the body. It plays a key role in balancing Pitta and Kapha, utilized in many herbal formulations to effectively treat conditions characterized by excess heat or fluid retention.

50) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi means disease or ailment in Ayurveda, encompassing a wide range of health issues arising from doshic imbalances, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. Understanding Vyadhi is essential for Ayurvedic practitioners to create appropriate treatment plans focused on achieving homeostasis and wellness for patients.

51) Family:
'Family' plays a critical role in individual health policies and practices, including dietary habits and lifestyle choices. In Ayurvedic contexts, familial patterns may influence the predisposition to certain diseases, making the understanding of family health history valuable in tailoring personalized treatments and preventive measures.

52) Ahara:
Ahara translates to food or diet in Ayurveda, representing a foundational aspect of health and well-being. The choice, quality, and preparation of Ahara are crucial, influencing doshic balance, digestion, and overall health outcomes. A well-considered diet is integral to Ayurvedic practice, guiding disease management and wellness strategies.

53) Bhava:
'Bhava' means attitude or mental state in Ayurveda, emphasizing the influence of emotional and psychological balance on physical health. Recognizing the connection between Bhava and health allows practitioners to address underlying emotional issues in treatment, providing a holistic approach to managing diseases and promoting overall wellness.

54) India:
India, as the birthplace of Ayurveda, holds a rich tradition of holistic medicine that integrates mind, body, and spirit. Its cultural approach to health emphasizes preventive care and natural remedies, allowing Ayurveda to thrive and evolve while addressing contemporary health challenges through ancient wisdom and practice.

55) Agni:
'Agni' signifies digestive fire in Ayurveda, fundamental for processing food and maintaining metabolic health. A strong Agni is essential for nutrient absorption and detoxification; imbalances can lead to various health issues. Understanding and regulating Agni is a priority in Ayurvedic treatments to restore optimal functioning and health.

56) Food:
Food represents a core aspect of Ayurvedic practice, influencing all doshas, dhatus, and srotas. Dietary choices should accommodate individual constitution and current health state, promoting balance and preventing disease. The right Food enhances digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall wellness, directly impacting health outcomes in individuals.

57) Shamanacikitsa (Samanacikitsa, Shamana-cikitsa):
Shamana-chikitsa refers to palliative treatment aimed at alleviating symptoms without aggressive cleansing. This therapeutic approach in Ayurveda focuses on balancing doshas and improving quality of life by using herbal remedies and lifestyle changes, enabling chronic patients to achieve comfort and stability in their health conditions.

58) Bhrajakapitta (Bhrajaka-pitta):
Bhrajaka-pitta is a subtype of Pitta dosha responsible for skin pigmentation and complexion. It plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health and color quality. Imbalances in Bhrajaka-pitta can lead to various skin disorders; thus, its management is critical in treating conditions related to skin, like psoriasis.

59) Bhumyamalaki (Bhumi-amalaki):
Bhumyamalaki, known scientifically as Phyllanthus niruri, is a potent herb in Ayurveda recognized for its liver-protective and diuretic properties. It is integral in detoxification processes and supports liver health, often utilized in formulations targeting Yakrit Vikara, contributing to holistic approaches for managing liver ailments.

60) Raktadhatu (Rakta-dhatu):
'Rakta-dhatu' refers to the blood tissue in Ayurveda, representing an essential component for nourishing other dhatus. Maintaining healthy Rakta-dhatu is vital for overall physiological balance. Disorders affecting Rakta-dhatu can have widespread impacts, prompting Ayurvedic treatments to focus on blood purification and rejuvenation.

61) Yashtimadhu (Yashti-madhu, Yastimadhu):
Yashtimadhu, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is known for its sweet root and medicinal properties in Ayurveda. It provides soothing and demulcent effects, often included in formulations to support digestion, respiratory health, and address Pitta-related disorders. Its versatility makes it a staple herb in various Ayurvedic remedies.

62) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pitta-dosha represents the governing principle of transformation, heat, and metabolism in Ayurveda. It is composed of fire and water elements, influencing digestion, assimilation, and body temperature. Imbalances in Pitta may manifest as inflammation or skin disorders, making its regulation essential through targeted therapies to restore health.

63) Kaphadosha (Kapha-dosha, Kaphadosa):
Kapha-dosha signifies the dosha related to stability, structure, and lubrication, incorporating the elements of earth and water. Its balance is crucial for tissue health and vitality. Imbalances can lead to excess weight and lethargy; thus, managing Kapha is vital in Ayurvedic health strategies to promote optimal living.

64) Abhishyandi (Abhisyandi):
'Abhishyandi' refers to causative factors that lead to congestion or blockages within bodily channels (Srotas) in Ayurveda. Recognizing Abhishyandi influences aids in understanding disease progression and developing treatment strategies to alleviate symptoms by restoring proper flow and function of bodily systems.

65) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
'Rasa-dhatu' refers to the plasma or the vital fluid in Ayurveda, serving as the first dhatu derived from digested food. It sustains other dhatus, impacting overall health. Proper management and nourishment of Rasa-dhatu are essential for maintaining vitality and preventing diseases linked to malnutrition or deficiencies.

66) Vishamagni (Visamagni, Vishama-agni):
Vishamagni signifies an irregular digestive fire in Ayurveda, often leading to erratic digestion and health issues. This condition can arise from various factors, including emotional stress or dietary indiscretions. Addressing Vishamagni is critical for restoring digestive health and overall balance through targeted treatments and lifestyle shifts.

67) Tridoshaja (Tridosaja):
'Tridoshaja' refers to conditions typically arising from imbalances among the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Recognizing a Tridoshaja condition allows practitioners to understand the interconnectedness of doshas in presenting symptoms, guiding holistic treatments focused on restoring overall health through balance.

68) Discussion:
'Discussion' encapsulates the engagement and examination of different perspectives surrounding a health issue or treatment approach. In Ayurveda, discussion promotes collaboration among practitioners, facilitating deeper understanding and exploration of therapeutic modalities and individual cases, enhancing overall care provided to patients.

69) Developing:
'Developing' refers to the process of growth or progression regarding health conditions, recognizing that diseases can evolve over time. In Ayurveda, the understanding of developing conditions aids practitioners in identifying potential patterns, essential for early intervention and effective treatment approaches aimed at reversing or managing health issues.

70) Alcoholism:
Alcoholism refers to an addiction characterized by excessive and compulsive drinking habits. In Ayurveda, it manifests as a dysfunction of doshas, particularly Pitta and Kapha, leading to various health issues, including liver and psychological disorders. Effective management involves holistic interventions addressing both physical and emotional aspects of addiction.

71) Anubandha (Anubamdha):
Anubandha means connection or link between various elements in Ayurveda, displaying the interrelationships among doshas, dhatus, and diseases. Understanding Anubandha is crucial for practitioners to appreciate how one aspect impacts another, aiding in comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment formulations tailored to individual health concerns.

72) Observing:
'Observing' encompasses the attentive examination and monitoring of patients to understand their health conditions better. In Ayurveda, careful observing assists practitioners in diagnosing ailments, assessing progress, and adjusting treatment regimens based on individual responses, ensuring holistic and personalized healthcare delivery.

73) Suffering:
'Suffering' encompasses experiences of pain and discomfort linked with physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects. In Ayurveda, understanding the causes of suffering facilitates identifying imbalances among doshas and dhatus. Treatment aims to alleviate suffering through holistic approaches targeting root causes, ultimately promoting healing and well-being.

74) Medicine:
Medicine broadly refers to substances or practices utilized for diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. In Ayurveda, medicine encompasses a range of herbal formulations, lifestyle recommendations, and detoxification practices designed to restore balance among doshas and promote overall well-being through individualized care according to patient needs.

75) Bhrajaka:
Bhrajaka specifically refers to the type of Pitta dosha responsible for maintaining the skin's color and complexion. Ensuring Bhrajaka’s balance is vital in treating skin-related disorders, emphasizing the need for targeted therapies aimed at promoting skin health and addressing issues arising from Pitta imbalances.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 109]