Jaundice: home remedies

Yellow appearance of the skin and whites of the eyes indicates a condition known as jaundice. Here we will discuss causes of jaundice and what home remedies can help to cure it. Jaundice Overview

The term “jaundice” comes from French word “jaune”, which means yellow. As already mentioned above, jaundice manifests as yellowing of the skin, sclera (white of the eyes) and mucus membranes.

Jaundice is caused by excess levels of the pigment called bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a by-product of the normal breakdown of red blood cells. The liver removes bilirubin from the blood, which is then eliminated from the body in the bile. However, if something disrupts this process jaundice occurs.

Causes of Jaundice

Jaundice can be seen in anyone regardless of age. Jaundice is not a disease but a symptom of other disorders. Infants are often affected by jaundice. This is known as neonatal jaundice. It occurs due to failure of an infant’s immature liver to process bilirubin and usually resolves within several days.

Jaundice can be caused by hemolytic anemia, which can be genetic or acquired. Blockage of bile ducts can also lead to jaundice. Bile ducts are channels, through which bile passes from the liver to the gallbladder and the intestine. Obstruction of these channels may occur due to gallstones or tumors.

Jaundice may result from hepatitis, a viral infection of the liver marked by swelling of the organ. Alcohol abuse often leads to jaundice because heavy alcohol drinking severely affects liver functions and results in alcoholic liver disease.

Jaundice can indicate serious diseases such as cancer of the pancreas and tumor of the liver. Furthermore, jaundice can occur during pregnancy or due to congenital malformations. Home Remedies for Jaundice

Jaundice can be easily treated with simple home remedies. One of them is lime juice. People affected by jaundice should consume plenty of lime juice to treat the condition.

Bananas are also beneficial for jaundice. Mash one ripe banana, add one tablespoon of honey and consume it twice a day.

Tomato juice is another home remedy that can cure jaundice. Individuals suffering from jaundice should drink at least one glass of tomato juice with a pinch of salt early in the morning. Carrot juice is also highly beneficial.

Prunes are very good for any liver disorder including jaundice. Jaundice patients should include prunes into their daily diet. Indian gooseberry is beneficial for liver problems and can be used as jaundice cure. 4 grams of Indian gooseberry should be taken with water three times a day for at least 20 days.

Jaundice can be also cured with regular drinking of oregano tea. Finally, decoction prepared of 1 cup of water and 10 lemon leaves consumed for 4-5 days can help to treat jaundice.