The Astanga Hridaya (अष्टाङ्ग हृदय) is one of the foundational classical texts of Ayurveda, written by the sage Vagbhata around 600 CE. It synthesizes and simplifies the knowledge of earlier Ayurvedic treatises, particularly the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, making it more accessible to practitioners. The text is highly revered and forms part of the Brhat Trayi (the three great texts of Ayurveda) alongside Charaka and Sushrut.
In the Ashtanga Hridaya, an ancient Ayurvedic text, high blood pressure (hypertension) is understood through an imbalance of doshas, often involving Vata and Pitta aggravation. Remedies aim to balance these doshas, pacify the mind, and strengthen the heart. Here are specific approaches from an Ayurvedic perspective:
1. Dietary Recommendations
- Cooling and soothing foods: Include ghee, coconut water, and cooked vegetables.
- Avoid hot, spicy, and salty foods: These increase Pitta and exacerbate hypertension.
- Eat fresh fruits: Pomegranate, amla, and raisins are particularly beneficial.
- Restrict heavy and oily foods: To avoid Kapha imbalance, which can contribute to blockages.
- Coriander and cumin water: Helps detoxify and calm Pitta.
2. Herbal Remedies
- Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna): Strengthens the heart and stabilizes blood pressure. Take it as powder or decoction.
- Ashwagandha: Reduces stress and regulates Vata.
- Brahmi and Shankhpushpi: Promote calmness and reduce anxiety-driven blood pressure increases.
- Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia serpentina): Traditionally used for controlling hypertension, but consult a practitioner before using.
3. Lifestyle Changes
- Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Regular oil massage with sesame oil or medicated oils like Bala Taila calms Vata and reduces stress.
- Avoid overexertion: Both physical and mental strain aggravate Vata.
- Daily routine: Consistency in sleep, eating, and activity helps regulate dosha balance.
4. Panchakarma Therapies
- Virechana (Purgation): Eliminates excess Pitta.
- Shirodhara: Pouring warm oil over the forehead calms the nervous system and reduces stress.
- Nasya: Administration of medicated oils through the nose to balance Vata and Pitta.
- Basti (Enema): Using herbal oils or decoctions pacifies Vata and balances blood pressure.
5. Yoga and Pranayama
- Anulom-Vilom: Alternate nostril breathing to balance Vata and Pitta.
- Shavasana: Deep relaxation for stress management.
- Yoga postures: Sukhasana, Vajrasana, and Shavasana help calm the mind and body.
6. Emotional and Mental Health
- Meditation: Practices focusing on mantra chanting or visualization reduce stress.
- Satvavajaya (Psychological therapies): Fostering positive emotions and mental stability.
Qupro Natural Therapeutics:
Incorporate Quantum Field Meditation before consuming remedies or meals to enhance healing. This aligns with reducing emotional stress and improving absorption of remedies.
Suggested Daily Routine:
- Morning: Drink a decoction of Arjuna bark with honey and a pinch of cardamom.
- Midday: Practice pranayama (Anulom-Vilom) for 10 minutes.
- Evening: Massage feet with sesame oil.
- Night: Take a cup of warm milk with a pinch of turmeric and nutmeg for restful sleep.
Would you like these suggestions tailored further or made into a structured daily guide?