What is BP?

Question

For the past few months, I have been feeling dizzy, fatigued, and sometimes lightheaded when I stand up suddenly. Initially, I ignored it, thinking it was due to my hectic schedule and stress. But recently, I visited a doctor, and during a routine check-up, he measured my BP (blood pressure) and said it was lower than normal. He advised me to increase my salt intake and drink more fluids, but he didn’t explain much beyond that.

I’ve always heard about BP but never really understood what it means. Some people say high BP is dangerous, while others say low BP can also cause serious problems. I want to understand BP in detail from both a medical and Ayurvedic perspective.

What exactly is BP and why is it important? I read that BP is the pressure of blood against artery walls, but what factors influence normal BP levels? Also, what is the normal BP range for different age groups? Does it differ for men and women?

I've also come across discussions about how Ayurveda considers BP imbalances to be linked with Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. How do these doshas affect BP fluctuations? Does high BP indicate an imbalance in Pitta, while low BP suggests a weakened Vata system?

I want to focus on natural remedies to maintain healthy BP levels without depending too much on medications. Are there specific Ayurvedic herbs like Arjuna, Ashwagandha, and Brahmi that help regulate BP naturally? Also, does yoga and meditation play a role in controlling blood pressure fluctuations?

Apart from that, what are the daily habits or dietary changes I should follow to balance BP levels naturally? Should I include more warm foods, hydrating drinks, or certain spices in my meals?

I prefer long-term, sustainable solutions rather than quick fixes. Can you suggest a comprehensive Ayurvedic approach to maintaining BP and ensuring overall heart health?

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Blood pressure (BP) is the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of the arteries, ensuring proper oxygen and nutrient supply to organs. A normal BP range is typically 120/80 mmHg, but variations exist based on age, gender, and health conditions. Low BP (hypotension) can cause dizziness, fatigue, and fainting, while high BP (hypertension) increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Ayurveda associates BP fluctuations with dosha imbalances—Vata governs circulation, Pitta regulates metabolism and heat, and Kapha maintains stability. Low BP is linked to Vata imbalance, causing poor circulation and weakness, while high BP is often due to Pitta aggravation, leading to excess heat and stress on blood vessels.

To naturally regulate BP, Ayurveda recommends herbs like Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) for heart health, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) for stress reduction, and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) to support mental calmness and circulation. For low BP, increasing salt intake, staying hydrated with herbal teas (like ginger or tulsi tea), and consuming warm, nourishing foods like dates, nuts, and root vegetables can help. For high BP, cooling foods like coconut water, cucumber, and pomegranate along with stress-relieving practices are beneficial. Yoga postures like Vajrasana, Shavasana, and deep breathing exercises (Anulom Vilom, Bhramari) help stabilize BP naturally.

A balanced lifestyle is key to maintaining healthy BP levels. Regular Abhyanga (oil massage with sesame or Brahmi oil) strengthens circulation, while moderate physical activity like walking and stretching improves cardiovascular function. Avoid processed foods, excessive caffeine, and irregular eating habits that disturb BP balance. Drinking Jeera (cumin) or Dhaniya (coriander) water daily supports digestion and circulation. By following Ayurvedic dietary recommendations, herbal support, yoga, and lifestyle modifications, BP can be maintained naturally without excessive medication dependency.

What is BP? - #18083

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