Assessment of Medovaha Srotasa Dushti Lakshana in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): A Cross-Sectional Study

Roga Pariksha (disease examination) is a core element of Ayurvedic diagnosis. However, in the context of Yakrit Vikara (liver disorders), Ayurvedic literature offers very limited information mainly discussing Yakritdalyudara, which is insufficient for diagnosing complex modern liver diseases like Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). This research emphasizes the need to bridge the knowledge gap between classical Ayurvedic texts and modern hepatology by studying symptoms through the lens of Srotasa Dushti Lakshana (channel vitiation) and Dhatu Dushti Lakshana (tissue vitiation). The study aims to develop a reliable diagnostic framework (Lakshan Samuchaya) for Yakrit Vikara Pariksha, focusing especially on Medovaha Srotasa Dushti, which aligns with NAFLD, given that Medo Dushti (fat tissue disorder) manifests as conditions like Sthoulya (obesity) and Prameha (diabetes) both key risk factors for NAFLD.

Considering the growing public health burden of liver diseases in India, and limited Ayurvedic references to Yakrit Vikara, this work seeks to Compile and reinterpret scattered Ayurvedic information on liver diseases, Align classical concepts with modern diseases like NAFLD, Develop subjective and objective tools for accurate Ayurvedic diagnosis, Promote standardization in examination (same format and questions for all participants), Ultimately re-establish a comprehensive Ayurvedic understanding of NAFLD while staying true to classical principles.