Kamala Roga in Ayurveda: A Literary Review with Contemporary Correlation to Jaundice

Abstract

Kamala is an important disease entity described in Ayurvedic classics, characterized predominantly by yellow discoloration of the eyes, skin, urine, and stool. These manifestations closely resemble the clinical presentation of jaundice in contemporary medicine. Ayurveda provides a detailed etiological, pathological, and therapeutic framework for Kamala, emphasizing systemic metabolic imbalance rather than isolated organ pathology. Objective: To critically review the classical Ayurvedic concept of Kamala Roga and correlate it with the modern understanding of jaundice. Methods: A literature review was conducted based on classical Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, along with their authoritative commentaries. Ayurvedic principles such as Dosha, Dhatu, Agni, and Srotasa were analytically correlated with modern anatomical and pathological concepts of jaundice. Results: Kamala is described as a Pitta-pradhana Tridoshaja Vyadhi, with primary involvement of Rakta Dhatu, Yakrit, and Pittavaha Srotasa. Classical texts detail its etiological factors, Samprapti, clinical variants (Koshthashrita and Shakhashrita Kamala), and management strategies. Significant parallels were observed between Ayurvedic descriptions and modern classifications of hepatocellular and obstructive jaundice. Ayurvedic management focuses on Nidana Parivarjana, Virechana Karma, and Pitta-Rakta Shamana, offering a structured and individualized therapeutic approach. Conclusion: The Ayurvedic concept of Kamala provides a holistic and pathophysiologically sound understanding of jaundice. This literature review highlights the relevance of classical Ayurvedic principles in interpreting liver disorders and supports the scope for integrative research in hepatoprotective and metabolic management strategies.