Holistic Management of Cardiovascular Disease: Ayurvedic Principles and Therapeutic Intervention

Abstract

According to Acharya Sushruta, the presence of causative factors causes doshas to become unbalanced and aggravated, which causes them to depart from their proper locations and impact the rasa dhatu (body lymph). Various forms of pain known as Hridbadha or Hridroga are the manifestation of this imbalance. With around 18 million deaths annually, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Cardiovascular disease is a major modern health issue that is quickly overtaking all other causes of death worldwide. Formerly, cardiac ailments were predominantly observed in the elderly. Cardiac diseases have become increasingly prevalent among younger individuals as a result of changes in diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Fortunately, modern medicine offers a range of advanced treatments for patients with cardiac diseases. However, it is important to note that these treatments may not be accessible to all individuals. In contrast, Ayurveda provides numerous drugs, medicinal preparations such as rasayana pathya and apathya, and various yoga techniques that have remarkable curative and preventive effects on cardiac diseases. Furthermore, given the universal need for good health, all branches of Ayurveda can cooperate. Despite significant advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic cardiology, millions of individuals succumb to heart disease annually. Heart disorders, from a modern perspective, are not exclusively confined to the concept of Hridroga in Ayurveda. However, they are extensively dispersed across the description of numerous different illnesses. Ayurveda, with its potential to address this growing gap, should undergo thorough testing to determine its rationale, potential, and evidence-based applications in order to fully utilize its capabilities. This paper provides a comprehensive assessment of the current literature on Hridroga and then explores the management and potential preventive actions for Hridroga using Ayurveda.