Ayurvedic Treatment for Hypertension

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition that occurs when the force of the blood on the walls of the arteries is elevated. 

Hypertension is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it usually does not cause any obvious symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. 

If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.

Hypertension occurs when the force exerted by blood on the artery walls is consistently too high. 

This puts pressure on the heart and damages nerves throughout the body. 

Blood pressure is measured in two numbers: systolic pressure (higher number) and diastolic pressure (lower number). 

A normal blood pressure reading is 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is considered when systolic pressure consistently exceeds 130 mmHg, or diastolic pressure exceeds 80 mmHg.

Grading Hypertension

Normal

Systolic blood pressure less than 120 and Diastolic blood pressure less than 80 mm Hg;

Elevated

Systolic blood pressure 120 to 129 and Diastolic blood pressure less than 80 mm Hg;

Stage 1 hypertension 

Systolic blood pressure 130 to 139 or Diastolic blood pressure 80 to 89 mm Hg;

Stage 2 hypertension

Systolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 140 mm Hg or Diastolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 90 mm Hg.

Symptoms of Hypertension

There are usually no obvious symptoms of Hypertension. That’s why it’s so important to check your blood pressure regularly and 

have regular checkups with your healthcare provider. 

However, some individuals may experience symptoms such as headache, dizziness, blurred vision, shortness of breath, and chest pain. 

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. 

Hypertension is often asymptomatic or causes subtle signs due to other reasons which is why high blood pressure is often referred to as the “silent killer”. 

However, some people may experience headaches, shortness of breath, nasal congestion, dizziness, or chest pain. 

These symptoms are common in Hypertension, a condition in which blood pressure rises to extremely high levels.

Regular blood pressure monitoring is the most reliable way to determine if you have high blood pressure. 

A home blood pressure monitor or a home visit from a healthcare professional can be used to check blood pressure. 

Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential, especially if you have high blood pressure risk factors.

Causes of Hypertension

Many factors can contribute to high blood pressure. 

Genetics, age, excessive salt intake, obesity, lack of physical activity, stress, and certain underlying medical conditions are all common causes. 

High blood pressure causes Understanding neurology is critical for effectively managing and preventing its progression.

There are various causes of high blood pressure, but they all contribute to it. 

Lifestyle factors heavily influence the development of Hypertension.

Primary causes of Hypertension

Although there is no known cause of primary Hypertension, several risk factors have been identified. 

These are some examples:

The risk of Hypertension rises with age. People’s blood vessels become less elastic as they age, resulting in higher blood pressure.

Individuals with a family history of Hypertension are more likely to develop the condition themselves. Primary Hypertension is influenced by genetics.

Race: 

Some ethnic groups, such as African Americans, are predisposed to high blood pressure. This increased risk could be due to genetic factors or an increase in the prevalence of obesity and other health problems.

Lifestyle choices: 

Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as a high sodium and fat diet, lack of exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking can all contribute to Hypertension

A secondary cause of Hypertension

A medical condition or medication typically causes secondary Hypertension. Some of the most common causes are:

Underlying disease conditions:

 Secondary Hypertension can be caused by kidney diseases such as chronic kidney disease or renal atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries that carry blood to the kidneys).

Hormonal disorders: 

Secondary Hypertension can be caused by hormonal imbalances such as an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or adrenal gland disorders (Cushing syndrome).

Medications: 

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), birth control pills, oral contraceptives, and some antidepressants can all cause blood pressure to rise.

Sleep Apnea: 

Sleep apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing while sleeping, has been linked to secondary Hypertension.

Different types of blood pressure

Hypertension can be divided into two main types: primary (essential) Hypertension and secondary Hypertension.

Primary Hypertension

The most common type is primary Hypertension, which accounts for 90-95% of all cases. 

Although the exact cause of primary Hypertension is unknown, several risk factors are implicated. 

Poor diet, lack of physical activity, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking are examples of lifestyle factors. 

Primary hypertension risk factors include genetics, age, and certain underlying medical conditions such as kidney disease or hormonal imbalances.

Secondary Hypertension

A medical condition or medication causes secondary Hypertension. 

It only accounts for 5-10% of hypertensive patients. 

Secondary Hypertension can be caused by kidney disease, hormonal disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism or Cushing’s syndrome), adrenal gland tumors, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or certain medications such as oral contraceptives.

Ayurvedic Perspective on Hypertension

Hypertension, according to Ayurveda, is caused by an imbalance in the doshas, which are the fundamental energies that govern our bodies.

Hypertension and  Tridosha

Hypertension is frequently associated with an aggravated Pitta dosha, which represents the fire element, in Ayurvedic terms.

The blood is ejected from the heart, distributed to all parts of the body, and then returned to the heart via the blood vessels known as ‘Sirah’ in Ayurveda. 

The function of Samana Vata governs the return of Rasa (blood) to the heart. 

Blood pressure is the lateral pressure exerted by the flow of blood on the artery walls.

 Systolic and diastolic blood pressure are the two components of blood pressure. 

The heart has its pacemaker (SA node), which generates electrical impulses that cause the heart to contract during systole. 

Vata 

This self-excitatory function of the heart can be attributed to the Vata Dosha, specifically the Vyana Vata, which is seated in the heart and is in charge of blood circulation. 

According to Charaka, Vyana Vata, a component of Vata Dosha, constantly forces blood out of the heart and distributes it. 

Thus, the systolic blood pressure achieved during heart contraction is controlled by Vata (Vyana Vata). 

Though the SA node generates impulses on its own, the rate at which they are developed is regulated by the autonomic nervous system via sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibers that emerge from the brain. 

Prana Vata, which is located in the Moordha (Brain), controls the Hridaya (heart) and performs Dhamani Dharana (arterial perpetuation), and thus Prana Vata controls the heart rate. 

In this context, Vyana Vata and Prana Vata denote nervous control of circulation, as Vata, in general, characterizes all neural mechanisms. When the heart muscles relax, diastole occurs.

Kapha 

There is no active push by the heart, so diastolic blood pressure is only caused by blood flowing through the narrow structures of the chambers of the heart and arteries. 

Thus, diastolic blood pressure can be classified as Kapha Dosha (Kapha maintains the structural integrity of body organs), specifically Avalambaka Kapha, because the resistance provided by the structure of the heart and blood vessels controls diastolic blood pressure. 

Thus, diastolic BP is determined by peripheral resistance (the resistance faced by blood in the blood vessels). 

This is primarily influenced by the diameter and elasticity of blood vessels, which fall under the purview of the Kapha Dosha. 

The autonomic nervous system also regulates vascular tone by changing the diameter of the arteries as needed. 

Because Dhamani Dharana is a function of Prana Vata, the peripheral resistance provided by the arteries as a result of vasoconstriction caused by sympathetic nerve action can also be viewed as a function of Prana Vata. 

The action potential created by the rapid influx of Na+ and Ca++ ions and the efflux of K+ ions across the membrane of the SA node causes the heart’s autorhythmicity. 

The involvement of these chemical ions can be attributed to Pitta due to its Tikshna (rapidity), Drava (fluidity), and Sara (diffusion/dispersion) Guna, primarily Sadhaka Pitta, which is located in the heart. 

The basal metabolic rate (BMR) has a direct but imperfect positive correlation with the heart’s pulse rate and pressure. 

This means that changes in the basal metabolic rate cause changes in blood pressure. 

Thus, the basal metabolic rate can be explained as a result of Agni or Pitta, more specifically, Pachaka Pitta. 

The quality and quantity of the Rasa and Rakta Dhatus influence blood volume and viscosity. 

These factors also influence cardiac output. The heart (Hridaya) and blood vessels (Rasavaha Dhamanis) form the Prana Vaha Srotas and their Srotomulas, which are primarily involved in blood circulation, along with Medavaha Srotas, Mutravaha Srotas, Swedavaha Srotas, and Udakavaha Srotas.

Ayurvedic Treatment and Management of Hypertension

Ayurvedic treatment for high blood pressure focuses on balancing the doshas to improve overall health and well-being. 

It entails a combination of lifestyle and dietary changes, herbs, and stress management techniques. 

Stress management is a key component of Ayurvedic medicine. 

Chronic stress has been linked to high blood pressure, and Ayurveda provides stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and Yoga. 

These practices aid in the relaxation of the mind, the soothing of the body, and the promotion of overall well-being.

Here are some of the fundamental principles of Ayurvedic medicine:

Internal therapies:

 Internal treatment, or Antah parimarjana chikitsa, uses Ayurvedic medicines to address the root causes of high blood pressure.

These medicines help balance the deficiencies and bleeding well. 

Ayurvedic medicines like Sarpagandha powder, Mukta vati, Brahmi vati, Giloyasatva, Hridayarnavarasa, etc., are often prescribed for dealing with high blood pressure. 

These compounds help regulate blood pressure and support overall heart health. Consult your doctor before taking these medications.

External treatments: Some external treatments or bahiparimarjana

include Takaradhara, Shirodhara, and Shirolepa. These treatments are aimed at relaxing the muscles, improving circulation, and preventing high blood pressure.

Panchakarma: 

Ayurvedic detoxification program Panchakarma is very useful in the management of high blood pressure. 

Treatments such as Virechana (medical cleansing), Basti (medical enema), and Raktamokshan (bleeding) help to eliminate toxins and restore balance to the body.

Virechana

The Virechana Karma clears the obstruction, eliminates the morbid Doshas from Rakta, and regulates the activity and movement of Vata. Thus, it controls the high BP. 

According to the modern point of view, during the Virechana process, the inflammation of intestinal mucosa leads to hyperemia and exudation, resulting in the increased passage of protein-rich fluids through vessel walls to the intestinal lumen. 

An increase in fluid volume also results in the dilution of toxic material. Evacuation of the fluid from Rasa-Rakta by Virechana is the direct process that leads to a decrease in fluid volume.

Basti

It can be understood in the following ways: 

By absorption mechanism and by neural stimulation mechanism.

By absorption mechanism, the Anuvasana Basti tail, after reaching the rectum and colon, causes secretion of bile from the gallbladder, which leads to the formation of conjugate micelles, which are absorbed through passive diffusion.

Especially the middle-chain fatty acid present in Taila of Anuvasana Basti can get absorbed from the colon and large intestine part of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and break the pathology of the disease.

By neural stimulation mechanism, BP is regulated by the feedback of the neural tissue of the Vaso-Motor Center (VMC). 

VMC activity, in turn, depends upon reflexes from the periphery (neural and chemical) and from higher centers. 

Sympathetic stimulation causes activation of the pressure area of VMC, which in turn causes vasoconstriction and leads to a rise in BP, while parasympathetic stimulation causes activation of the depressor area of VMC, which in turn results in vasodilatation and precipitates a decrease in BP.

The long-term regulation of BP occurs through the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone (RAA) axis of endocrine mechanisms. 

The lower part of GIT is richly supplied with parasympathetic nerves, which, on stimulation with Basti (either by chemical or mechanical receptor), may cause a decrease in the secretion of the RAA complex, and by activating the depressor area of VMC, which causes vasodilatation and results in a reduction in BP.

The Enteric Nervous System (ENS) works in synergism with the CNS on stimulation with Basti (either by chemo or mechanoreceptors). 

It may lead to activation of the depressor area of VMC, which finally causes a decrease in BP. 

A drug doesn’t need to remain in contact with the receptor for a long time, e.g., in the proton pump inhibitor mechanism, the drug interacts with the receptor and gets flushed out from circulation.

Single Herbs: 

Ayurveda utilizes a wide range of single herbs to manage Hypertension. 

Some commonly used herbs are Sarpagandha, Garlic, Arjuna, Ashwagandha, and Brahmi. 

These herbs have properties that help reduce blood pressure and promote cardiovascular health.

Natural remedies to manage Hypertension

Many natural treatments for high blood pressure are available in Ayurveda. 

Herbal “drug” extracts are one such method. 

These medications are specifically designed to promote cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure. 

Arjuna, Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Shankhapushpi are some of the most commonly used herbs for high blood pressure. 

Here are some Ayurvedic health tips for preventing and managing high blood pressure:

Pranayama: 

Pranayama is a breathing technique that can help you relax and reduce stress. 

Deep breathing should be practiced for at least 2-3 minutes per day. Pranayama techniques such as Nadi Shodhana, Ujjayi, Shitali, Sitkari, and Bhramari are beneficial in controlling Hypertension. However, you should practice it under the guidance of a yoga expert.

Give up smoking and drinking: 

High blood pressure can be exacerbated by alcohol and smoking. Quitting these habits can reduce the risk of Hypertension significantly.

Maintain adequate sleep: 

Adequate sleep is critical for good health. Establish a regular sleep schedule by waking up at the same time every day.

Abhyanga: 

also known as oil massage, is a traditional Ayurvedic practice that aids in the reduction of stress and tension.

Massage oils should be used once a week for relaxation and overall well-being.

Avoid refined sugar: 

White sugar should be avoided because it can cause high blood pressure.

Natural sweeteners such as molasses and honey can be used in place of white sugar.

Go vegan: 

According to scientific evidence, a vegan diet can help lower blood pressure. 

Increase your consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products while decreasing your consumption of non-vegetarian foods.

Healthy foods: 

Consume healthy foods such as celery, carrots, garlic, flax seeds, green tea, ginger, pomegranate juice, and orange juice. 

These foods have been shown to reduce blood pressure.

Limit Sugar-Sweetened Foods and Red Meat: 

High intake of sugary foods and red meat can finally contribute to Hypertension. 

Limit their consumption and opt for healthier alternatives.

Avoid head wash with warm water: 

Warm water causes dilation of blood vessels in the head and may increase blood pressure; instead, go for a cold water wash. 

Also, make sure to pour water first over the back portion of the head.

Blood donation therapy: 

Blood donation, particularly during the monsoon season, is thought to aid in the management of high blood pressure. It aids in the removal of excess bile from the body and improves overall health.

Monitoring on a regular basis: 

Monitor your blood pressure levels on a regular basis to detect changes and ensure proper blood pressure management. A home blood pressure monitor can be used for this.

Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to Ayurvedic treatment, lifestyle changes play an important role in managing Hypertension. Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or biking, helps improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and promote overall well-being. Incorporating Yoga and meditation into your daily routine can be beneficial in reducing stress and encouraging relaxation. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Advised diet and lifestyle

• Routine blood pressure monitoring
• Lifestyle changes such as eating balanced meals on time and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption
• Exercise on a regular basis
• Daily, fast flow for half an hour
• Reduce your intake of fatty, salty, acidic, and spicy foods.
• Weight loss
• Sleeping and waking up on time
• The DASH diet, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop High Blood Pressure, is a well-known blood pressure-lowering diet plan. 
• This diet emphasizes lowering sodium intake and eating fiber-rich foods. Individuals who follow the DASH diet can not only better manage their blood pressure, but also improve their overall cardiovascular health.

Regular practice of Yoga, meditation, etc., under the supervision of a Yoga expert, including Tadasana, Katichakrasana, Konasana, Uttanapadasana, Pavanamuktasana, Vajrasana, Ushtrasana, Shashankasana, Bhujangasana, Gomukhasana, Makarasana, Vakrasana, Shavasana, Nadi Shodhana, Ujjayi, Shitali, Sitkari and Bhramari, Jalneti, Breath awareness      

Restricted diet and lifestyle

• Excessive salt intake (sprinkle on salad, yogurt, etc.).
• Excessive consumption of ghee, ghee, chilies (red-green), pickles, sesame oil (sesame oil), Bengal gram (chana dal), mustard oil, sour fruits, yogurt, tea, coffee, and so on.
• Eating animal fats, processed/oily foods
• Drinking alcohol and smoking
• Practicing sleeping and waking up at night
• Yoga poses: Head position (shirshasana/Topsy-turvy) pose and hyperventilation breathing exercises.

Ayurvedic diet for high blood pressure

Dietary changes are an important part of Ayurvedic treatment for Hypertension.

A balanced diet, including fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, is recommended. 

Potassium-rich foods like bananas, raisins, and leafy greens are especially beneficial for controlling high blood pressure.

Foods to include:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Maize, Sorghum, Wheat, Green Chana (Mudga/Mung Dal), Ashwa Chana (Kultha), Moringa (Shigru), Bitter gourd, Canned Pumpkin (Ghiya/Maize), Turnip (Shalgam), carrot (carrot), radish (radish ), Indian squirrel (amla), cucumber (kira), black grape (vine), pomegranate (coconut), apple, pineapple, cold milk and so on.
• Quinoa, brown rice, and other whole grains
• Lean proteins like fish and poultry
• Healthy fats like avocado and olive oil
• Ayurvedic spices like turmeric, cumin and ginger

Foods to avoid:

• Excessive salt intake
• Processed and packaged foods
• fried and fatty foods
• alcohol and caffeine

Ayurvedic herbs that help to manage Hypertension

Ayurveda has a diverse array of herbs to treat high blood pressure. The following are some examples of commonly used chemicals:

Arjuna: 

Arjuna (Terminalia Arjuna) is well-known for its cardioprotective properties. 

It helps to strengthen heart muscles, regulate blood pressure, and improve overall heart health. 

Arjuna palkashayam is beneficial for reducing blood pressure and protecting the heart.

Ashwagandha: 

This rasayana herb helps reduce stress, promotes relaxation, and aids in the maintenance of normal blood pressure.

Brahmi: 

A well-known herb known for its psychoactive properties, it aids in mind relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being.

Shankhapushpi: 

This herb is well-known for its calming and revitalizing properties. 

It helps to reduce anxiety, clear the mind, and maintain normal blood pressure levels. Herbal tea made with shankhupushpa is also beneficial for relaxing the body.

Sarpagandha: 

Powder obtained from sarpagandha is helpful as a natural remedy for high blood pressure. 

Studies have shown that it can lower blood pressure and have some effects on circulation that can affect the function of arteries leading to the heart.

Jatamansi:

 It has proven to work wonders in lowering blood pressure. It works to improve cardiac function and regulate heart rate.

FAQs

Can Ayurveda cure high blood pressure?

Ayurveda can provide satisfactory and effective solutions for high blood pressure, but it is important to note that it might not help to cure the condition completely. 

Arterial Hypertension is a chronic medical condition that must be managed and monitored over a long time. 

Ayurveda works as a natural remedy to control high blood pressure, lower the risk of complications, and improve overall health. 

However, if your blood pressure exceeds the stage 2 limit you must consult an allopathic physician to avoid further complications. 

Also monitor the blood pressure levels frequently and make sure to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner and follow any prescribed medications or treatments as directed by your healthcare provider.

Is herbal tea good for high blood pressure?

Herbal tea may be a powerful addition to some extent because it helps calm your mind, but it is not an everlasting treatment to control your high blood pressure levels. 

Certain natural teas, which include hibiscus tea, green tea, shankhupushpa tea, Ashwagandha tea, lavender tea, and chamomile tea, have been shown to lower blood pressure. 

This tea also contains antioxidants and bioactive compounds that help to loosen up blood vessels, enhance movement, and alter blood pressure levels. However, before incorporating herbal tea into your day-to-day routine, seek advice from an Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor, as it may vary from person to person.

Will Ayurveda cure Hypertension forever?

No, Ayurveda provides a comprehensive and holistic method to control Hypertension. 

Ayurveda ambitions to manage high blood pressure and improve a person’s general well-being through the way of lifestyle and dietary modifications, natural treatments, and stress management strategies, but it’s crucial to apprehend that high blood pressure is a chronic disorder that has to be treated. 

It is vital to consult with a certified Ayurvedic practitioner and consume prescribed medications or treatments. Ayurveda can assist with excessive blood stress in the long run, but it can’t completely remedy the condition.

Which is the best Ayurveda treatment for Hypertension?

The best Ayurvedic treatment for Hypertension differs from individual to individual because it’s determined by different factors, which include the cause, severity of the situation, and the Prakriti of the person. Only a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner can address your precise needs and plan an appropriate remedy. This may additionally consist of a combination of lifestyle and dietary modifications, natural remedies, and stress management strategies.

Conclusion

Ayurveda provides a natural remedy for high blood pressure control. Ayurveda gives powerful solutions for correcting stress without relying completely on medicinal drugs by addressing the basic causes of high blood pressure and promoting overall fitness and well-being. 

Ayurveda empowers people to take control of their health through lifestyle modifications, food regimen modifications, herbal treatment plans, and pressure control strategies. 

If you need a complete and personalized method to deal with excessive blood pressure, 

Ayurveda can be your go-to partner.

Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to expand a remedy plan tailor-made to your particular needs and start on the route to better cardiovascular health and typical well-being.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6314241/

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/education/dash-eating-plan