What Is Normal Pulse Rate and How Can Ayurveda Help in Maintaining a Healthy Heartbeat Naturally?

Question

I have been monitoring my pulse regularly, and I started wondering whether my normal pulse rate is within a healthy range. Sometimes, my pulse feels fast, especially after eating or exercising, while other times, it seems slower than usual. This made me curious about what factors influence normal pulse rate and how I can maintain a stable and healthy heartbeat naturally.

From what I understand, the normal pulse rate for adults is typically between 60 and 100 beats per minute, but it can vary depending on factors like fitness level, stress, hydration, and sleep. But what I do not fully understand is why some people have a naturally lower pulse, while others have a higher one. Does age, diet, or emotional health play a major role in determining normal pulse rate?

I have read that Ayurveda considers the heart (Hridaya) as the center of circulation and that the pulse (Nadi) is an important diagnostic tool in Ayurvedic medicine. Are there specific Ayurvedic herbs like Arjuna, Ashwagandha, or Brahmi that help in maintaining a normal pulse rate and preventing fluctuations? Also, does Ayurveda recommend breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation to stabilize heart function?

Another thing I am wondering about is whether diet plays a role in regulating normal pulse rate. Should I be avoiding certain foods, such as caffeine and processed foods, that might elevate my pulse? Also, does Ayurveda suggest any herbal tonics or teas to naturally support heart health and circulation?

If anyone has successfully maintained a normal pulse rate using Ayurvedic methods, I would love to hear about what worked for them. I want to take a proactive and natural approach to maintaining my cardiovascular health.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Maintaining a normal pulse rate is crucial for overall cardiovascular health. A healthy adult pulse typically ranges between 60 and 100 beats per minute (BPM), but this can vary based on fitness level, age, stress, hydration, and sleep quality. Athletes and highly active individuals often have a lower resting pulse rate (40-60 BPM) due to improved heart efficiency. However, factors like emotional stress, caffeine, dehydration, and poor sleep can cause fluctuations. A persistently high or irregular pulse may indicate an underlying issue, while a very low pulse could signal heart or nervous system imbalances.

In Ayurveda, the pulse (Nadi) is an essential diagnostic tool that reflects the balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. The heart (Hridaya) is considered the seat of consciousness and circulation, and herbs like Arjuna support heart function, Ashwagandha reduces stress-related palpitations, and Brahmi enhances nervous system stability. Ayurveda also emphasizes pranayama (breathing exercises), yoga, and meditation to regulate heart rhythms naturally. Practices like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Bhramari (humming bee breath) help calm the mind and stabilize the pulse.

Diet plays a major role in pulse regulation. Ayurveda suggests avoiding excess caffeine, processed foods, and heavy, oily meals that may overstimulate the heart. Instead, a Sattvic diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and herbal teas helps maintain balance. Herbal tonics like Arjuna tea or Brahmi-infused water support heart health, while hydration with warm water improves circulation. If anyone has successfully stabilized their pulse using Ayurvedic methods, their insights would be valuable. By combining mindful eating, stress management, and herbal support, one can naturally maintain a healthy and steady pulse rate.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

You're on the right track in understanding pulse rate and its fluctuations. Generally, yeah, pulse rate between 60-100 bpm is considered normal, but sometimes it's a bit personalized too, like a tight comfy shoe that fits just you. Fitness level, age, diet, stress all play their parts. Those who are more active, got a naturally lower heart rate due to their cardiovascular strength. Emotional health? Big influence. Stress or anxiety can push the pulse up, y'know?

Now, in Ayurveda, Hridaya, the heart, is indeed seen as the center of circulation. And the pulse, or Nadi, it's like your life's rhythm, revealing the state of your doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). When there’s imbalance, the pulse shows.

Ayurveda does offer some herbs for heart health. Arjuna, for example, is renowned for its ability to strengthen cardiac function and support a stable pulse. Consuming Arjuna in powder or capsule form regularly can be beneficial. Ashwagandha helps in reducing stress, smoothing that pulse rate transition post-exercise, and Brahmi can help calm and support mental clarity.

Don't forget Yoga, Pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation are golden! They not only enhance heart health but balances the mind. Try doing practices like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) or just a gentle yoga routine. Make it part of your daily life, like brushing teeth—mundane but magic.

Diet, oh yeah, it matters. Reduce caffeine and processed foods, they can spike the pulse. In Ayurveda, a Sattvic diet, emphasizing fresh, whole foods, is recommended. Go for fresh veggies, whole grains, nuts, homemade ghee in moderation.

Herbal teas—Tulsi (Holy Basil) tea can support stress management, while hibiscus tea may help relax the blood vessels. Both can be soothing evening choices.

But a quick heads-up, if you ever feel like the fluctuations are unusual or bothersome, have a consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues. 💚

What Is Normal Pulse Rate and How Can Ayurveda Help in Maintaining a Healthy Heartbeat Naturally? - #16094

Doctors’ responses

About our doctors

Related questions

Popular questions

Doctors online

Latest reviews