
24/10/2024
The Effect of Hruday Basti on Hypertension: An Ayurvedic and Modern Science Perspective Introduction Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular diseases worldwide. Ayurveda offers a holistic and individualized approach to managing hypertension by focusing on the balance of Doshas and Srotas (body channels). Among the many therapies described in Ayurveda, Hruday Basti (an external treatment involving medicated oil applied to the heart region) has shown promise in managing cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension. This article delves into the Ayurvedic conceptualization of hypertension, the use of Hruday Basti, and its correlation with modern scientific findings. Ayurvedic Perspective on Hypertension In Ayurveda, hypertension is often interpreted as a manifestation of Rakta Vaha Srotas Dushti (dysfunction in the blood-carrying channels) and is influenced by the imbalance of the three doshas— Vata , Pitta , and Kapha . The excessive movement and disturbance of Vyana Vayu (a sub-type of Vata governing circulation) play a pivotal role in hypertension. Similarly, Sadhaka Pitta (a sub-type of Pitta governing the heart and emotions) also plays a part in regulating blood pressure. According to Ayurvedic classics: स्रोतांसि शुद्धानि सदा स्मृता: स्युः। ( Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 30:12 ) “The body channels (Srotas) should always remain clean and unobstructed for optimal health.” Hruday Basti is a therapeutic procedure where medicated oil or ghee is retained over the heart region, balancing Vata and Pitta doshas , calming the mind, and improving cardiac function. This therapy works by enhancing circulation and alleviating stress, which are critical contributors to hypertension in both Ayurvedic and modern contexts. Mechanism of Hruday Basti in Hypertension In Hruday Basti, the heart region (Hrudaya) is exposed to warm, medicated oils, which are believed to pacify Vata and Pitta doshas, reducing the overactive movement of Vyana Vayu and regulating the Sadhaka Pitta. This process helps in calming the nervous system and reducing stress, both of which are key factors in the development of hypertension. Relevant Ayurvedic Shlokas: हृदयम चेतनं स्थानं मनसश्च स्थितेन्द्रियं। ( Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana 15:13 ) “The heart is the seat of consciousness, emotions, and the mind, along with sensory perception.” वायुपित्तकफाः सर्वे हृदि संनिहिता: स्मृताः। ( Sushruta Samhita, Sutrasthana 21:6 ) “The heart is where all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—reside and interact.” प्रसन्नवातं प्रशमाय पित्तम कृच्छ्रम्॥ ( Ashtanga Hridaya, Sutrasthana 1:8 ) “By pacifying Vata and calming Pitta, relief from distress can be achieved.” Hruday Basti targets these imbalances by pacifying the aggravated Vata dosha, specifically Vyana Vayu , and Sadhaka Pitta, which are primarily responsible for blood pressure fluctuations. Modern Scientific Correlation Recent studies have shown that stress and hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system are major contributors to hypertension. The warm oil used in Hruday Basti has been shown to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress hormones like cortisol. A study on the effects of external oil treatments like Hruday Basti found that: The procedure reduces blood pressure by promoting vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and improving microcirculation . It reduces sympathetic nervous activity and enhances parasympathetic nervous system function, which can help lower stress-induced high blood pressure. The use of medicated oils like Dashamoola Taila and Bala Ashwagandha Taila has shown anti-inflammatory and cardio-protective properties. Research Findings: Study 1: A clinical study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine observed that external oil treatments (like Hruday Basti) resulted in a significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with mild to moderate hypertension. Study 2: Another study in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research highlighted the role of oil therapies in reducing heart rate variability , which indicates improved autonomic function and stress relief, directly correlating to the management of hypertension. Conclusion Hruday Basti, a unique Ayurvedic treatment focusing on heart health, has shown great potential in managing hypertension. The therapy works by balancing aggravated Vata and Pitta doshas, reducing stress, and improving circulation, which are all crucial in the treatment of hypertension. Modern research supports the physiological benefits of this therapy by demonstrating its role in lowering blood pressure through vasodilation, improved autonomic function, and stress reduction. The integrative approach of Ayurveda combined with modern scientific validation makes Hruday Basti a promising therapy for those seeking natural and holistic ways to manage hypertension. References: Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 30:12. Sushruta Samhita, Sutrasthana 21:6. Ashtanga Hridaya, Sutrasthana 1:8. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, Volume 10, Issue 4, 2020. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, Volume 14, Issue 7, 2020.. For more info visit us at http://www.sukhayurved.in/latest-update/the-effect-of-hruday/70?utm_source=facebookpage