In Ayurveda Arjuna has been described as a very significant cardiotonic herb. In ayurveda cardiac disorders or ischemic heart disease (IHD) is known as Hridroga. And it has been differentiated into the following types based on the Doshas:
If the pain is acute and having shifting nature, it is called as Vata heart disease.
If the pain is linked with a burning sensation, it is called Pitta heart disease.
If the pain is mild & is linked to heaviness, nausea, and cough, it is called Kapha heart illness.
If all the symptoms are present, then it is known as Tridosha heart disease.
As also in Ayurveda, Kapha Dosha brings about the hardening of arteries and so becomes the foremost cause for various heart diseases. Even the modern science has also accepted the ability of this herb as a cure for various types of heart diseases.
Following are the properties of Arjuna:
Rasa (taste): Astringent, bitter.
Virya (action): Cooling.
Vipaka (post digestive effect): Pungent.
Guna (quality): Light, dry.
Dosha effect: Tridoshic, and Kapha Pitta.
Dhatu (tissue): Plasma, blood, bone, reproductive.
Srotasa (channel): Circulatory, reproductive.
Parts used: Stem Bark, Powder, Extract.
Arjuna is beneficial in following conditions:
Arjuna brings about the elimination of cholesterol by accelerating the turnover of LDL-cholesterol in the liver. It also lowers beta-lipoprotein lipids and the recovery of HDL components in hyperlipidaemic patients. Thus in normal terminology brings about the lowering of cholesterol levels.
Acts as a cardiac stimulant strengthening the heart muscles and maintaining the normal heart functioning.
Arjuna is beneficial in hypertension. Because of its hypolipidemic activity and also the diuretic property it acts against hypertension.
Arjuna is also astringent & haemostatic in action.
Has prostaglandin enhancing and coronary risk modulating properties.
Is extremely beneficial in cardiac disorders as myocardial infraction, angina, coronary artery disease, heart failure, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertension.
Dosage:
1 – 2 teaspoon twice a day if consuming churna.
1 – 2 tablets twice daily.