Jaundice

What causes the skin to go a yellow-orange colour?

Yellowing of the skin is often caused by a condition called Jaundice and this condition requires medical attention as it may develop into a hepatitis infection. The colour changes involved with jaundice may occur anywhere such as the soles of the skin and whites of the eyes. The colour changes occur due to excessive amounts of Bilirubin in the blood (hyperbilirubinemia). Hemoglobin (blood cell protein) is broken down into Bilirubin by the liver and spleen and eliminated from the body via the bile. An increase in circulating Bilirubin may be an indication of liver, gall bladder and spleen conditions.

Symptoms of jaundice

Yellowing of the skin and other parts of the body such as the eyes, nails, etc.
Chronic fever, fatigue and aching muscles
Loss of appetite, halitosis and diarrhea
Nausea and vomiting
Itchy skin

Some common causes of jaundice

Liver Cirrhosis or Hepatitis
Anemia - this form of Jaundice is known as Hemolytic Jaundice and occurs due to the excessive destruction of red blood cells in this condition.
Gallstones can cause an obstruction of the bile duct which results in a build up of bilirubin

Diet tips for jaundice

Have vegetable juices everyday which contains beetroot, carrot and tomato to help cleanse the blood, stimulate liver detoxification and bind to Bilirubin
Ensure you drink plenty of water (at least 2 litres/day) to support the liver.
Squeeze some lemon juice into a warm glass of water when you wake up
to stimulate digestion and cleanse the system.
Follow a gentle detox diet
Eat healthy and organic meals which avoid saturated fats and preservatives

Lifestyle factors for jaundice

Avoid alcohol intake and simple sugars
Follow a gentle detoxificaiton regime
Speak to a Healthcare practitioner who can guide you concerning this condition and tailor make a regime specific for your needs

Natural remedies for jaundice

Some herbs that are often recommended by Herbalists to stimulate bile flow and remove excess amounts of Bilirubin are Blessed Thistle, Chickory, Chamomile, Dandelion, Gentian, Milk Thistle and Phyllanthus
Digestive enzymes which contain the enzyme Betaine (beetroot) may be of benefit to reduce circulating Bilirubin
Probiotics may be effective in helping to increase healthy gut flora and may improve the bodies ability to conjugate (bind) excess amounts of Bilirubin

For further information please see the Ask a Naturopath.com webpage concerning liver support