Hypertension - #18477

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when the force of blood against artery walls remains consistently elevated, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Ayurveda classifies hypertension primarily as a Pitta imbalance due to excess heat, stress, and emotional strain, but Vata can also play a role when hypertension is linked to anxiety and irregular circulation. Your symptoms of occasional headaches, restlessness, and palpitations—especially after stress or salty foods—could indicate early imbalances in blood pressure regulation. Addressing these imbalances early with Ayurvedic interventions can help prevent long-term complications. Diet and lifestyle play a significant role in managing and preventing hypertension. Processed and salty foods increase Pitta and water retention, raising blood pressure. Ayurveda recommends a Sattvic diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, while minimizing excessive salt, spicy foods, and stimulants like caffeine. Cooling and calming foods such as coconut water, cucumber, pomegranate, and leafy greens help balance Pitta and support cardiovascular health. Regular exercise, such as brisk walking, yoga, and Pranayama (deep breathing techniques), improves circulation and reduces stress. Herbs like Arjuna, Brahmi, and Garlic are highly effective in managing blood pressure. Arjuna strengthens the heart and improves arterial flexibility, while Brahmi calms the nervous system, reducing stress-induced hypertension. Garlic acts as a natural blood thinner and helps lower cholesterol levels. Ayurvedic formulations like Sarpagandha Vati and Mukta Vati are traditionally used to support healthy blood pressure levels. Ashwagandha is beneficial for reducing stress-related hypertension, while Punarnava helps regulate fluid balance and kidney function. Lifestyle modifications are essential for long-term hypertension prevention. Abhyanga (oil massage) with cooling oils like Brahmi or coconut oil helps relax the nervous system and reduce blood pressure fluctuations. Shirodhara (a calming Ayurvedic therapy where warm herbal oil is poured over the forehead) is beneficial for stress-induced hypertension. Meditation, deep breathing (Anulom Vilom, Bhramari), and regular sleep patterns support heart health and blood pressure regulation. With these Ayurvedic approaches, you can naturally manage hypertension, improve circulation, and promote long-term cardiovascular wellness.