Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

• Frequent headaches
• Dizziness or blurred vision
• Shortness of breath
• Nosebleeds in severe cases
• Chest heaviness or discomfort
• Fatigue and irregular heartbeat

Causes of High Blood Pressure

• High salt intake and fried foods
• Stress, anxiety and poor sleep
• Obesity and lack of physical activity
• Smoking or regular alcohol consumption
• Family history or hormonal imbalance
• Kidney issues or water retention

Treatment Approach (Ayurvedic + Lifestyle)

• Balancing Vata and Pitta doshas
• Using heart-supportive herbs like Arjuna
• Stress reduction: Pranayama & meditation
• Low-salt, cooling, sattvic diet
• Daily walking and light yoga
• Detox therapies like Panchakarma (if needed)

Understanding High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called a “silent killer” because it may not show obvious symptoms but can lead to serious health issues like heart disease or stroke. In Ayurveda, hypertension is understood as an imbalance of doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, often triggered by stress, poor lifestyle, and improper diet.

Ayurvedic Herbs That Help Regulate Blood Pressure

Here are some powerful Ayurvedic herbs that can support healthy blood pressure, when used correctly:

• Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb helps reduce stress, lower cortisol, and calm the nervous system — all of which support better blood pressure regulation.
• Arjuna Bark (Terminalia arjuna): Known as a heart tonic, Arjuna can strengthen the heart muscle, improve circulation, and reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Helps in calming the mind, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep; this indirectly helps in managing hypertension.
• Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, amla helps reduce oxidative stress in blood vessels and supports cardiovascular health.
• Garlic (Lashuna): Acts as a natural vasodilator, helping blood vessels relax and improving blood flow.
• Punarnava, Passionflower, Hawthorn: A traditional Ayurvedic mixture of these herbs is used to support kidney function and reduce fluid retention, which helps regulate BP.

• Ashwagandha – Helps reduce stress and calms the nervous system.
• Arjuna Bark – Strengthens the heart and improves circulation.
• Brahmi – Supports mental relaxation and eases anxiety.
• Amla – Reduces oxidative stress and boosts heart health.
• Garlic – Natural vasodilator that improves blood flow.
• Punarnava – Helps reduce water retention and supports kidney health.

Diet Tips to Control High Blood Pressure

• Eat light foods like moong dal soup with cumin and coriander.
• Include cucumber raita for natural cooling.
• Drink fresh peach juice with a pinch of cardamom.
• Mix orange juice + coconut water for electrolyte balance.
• Warm water with honey helps morning detox.
• Avoid fried, salty, or spicy foods.

Lifestyle Practices for Healthy BP

• Pranayama – Especially Anulom Vilom & Sheetali.
• Meditation – Even 10 minutes daily helps.
• Detox (Panchakarma) – Helps balance doshas.
• Sleep Routine – Avoid late nights and stress.
• Light Exercise – Yoga & walking improve circulation.

Safety Precautions

• Consult a doctor before combining herbs with BP medicine.
• Do not stop allopathic medicines without medical advice.
• Pregnant or chronic patients should use herbs cautiously.
• Monitor BP regularly at home.

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a gentle, natural, and holistic way to manage high blood pressure. With proper herbs, diet, and lifestyle balance, you can support your heart and overall well-being effectively.