Expert: Dr. Thomas M.Walter, M.D. - 3/10/2005

Question
What would you recommend for pruritis caused by liver disease ? ?  MD's are telling me there is no treatment.  HELP !

Thanks
Judy

Answer
Dear Judy,
     
      Pruritus is a condition of severe itching due to several disease conditions.  It is the commonest initial complaint pointing to the hepato biliary disease and it may precede jaundice by months or years. Bile   acid has been suggested as the cause of Pruritus but this remains unproved.      
                                                                                                                                                                                                   This is the main symptom of primary and secondary biliary cirrhosis. Pruritus may also be present in choledocho lithiasis in that case biliary drainage and the removal of gall stones can be achieved either at choledochotomy or using endoscopic techniques. Pruritus is present in chloropromazine hepatotoxicity (drug-induced).

    In the alternative medicine, especially in Siddha and Ayurveda (Traditional Indian Systems of Medicine), we use liver tonics, blood purifiers and medicated oil (for external application) to treat this condition.

    In my clinical practice, I usually prescribe the following medicines for Pruritus.

•   Liv 52 tablets/syrup, 2 tabs, twice daily for a minimum of 30 days – Himalaya herbal health care www.himalayahealthcare.com
•   Tab. Sklear 2 tabs, twice daily for a minimum of 30 days – Bajaj Health care
•   Cutis oil / ointment for external application – Vasu pharma – www.vasupharma.com

The first tablet is liver tonic, widely used for hepato-biliary conditions, the second one is blood purifier for chronic skin conditions and the third one is for external application.

Thanks,

Walter,

Bethesda team.

www.herbaleducators.com