Till early eighties, it was
widely believed that heart disease was virtually irreversible. This
meant that once developed, the disease ran a progressive course
until the coronary arteries were completely blocked. But recent
studies have proven beyond doubt that not only it is possible to
stall the process of artery blockage but also the blockage can be
really reversed. This implies that through measures other than
angioplasty (ballooning) or bypass surgery, it is quite possible to
increase the blood flow to the areas of the heart that receive less
than adequate blood supply due to clogging of the coronary arteries.
It is quite disheartening that the highly technological approach
of the modern medicine literally bypasses the underlying causes of
the heart disease. Ayurveda, on the other hand, aims at striking at
the very root of the disease. A real cure for this disease is only
possible if we adopt a holistic approach as the one advocated in
Ayurveda and address the problem at its very root. Shunning the
age-old principles of healing described in the Vedas- the great
Indian heritage, as unscientific only just because they are old, is
most unfortunate. However, due to the intensive research work of
some doctors in the west, people now have come to believe that Heart
Disease can be reversed.
There are some very effective natural treatments for regulating
and strengthening the heart. Here are some of the recommendations
that Ayurveda makes:
Nourishment : Use of Amla fruit as an excellent
anti-oxidant that can help to prevent arterial damage from free
radicals as well as nourishing the heart tissue. Amla can help boost
the immune system and nourish the heart. Chywanaprash
is a delicious nutritive herbal jam that contains Amla and is a real
boost to the strength of the heart.
Increase circulation: A major cause of heart problems is
due to hardening, inflammation or congestion of the arteries which
can restrict blood flow as well as putting pressure on the heart
muscle and tissue. Arjuna
is one of Ayurveda's wonder herbs for strengthening the cardiac
muscle, reducing arterial congestion and lowering blood pressure.
Reduce Blood fats and high cholesterol: If you suffer from
high cholesterol try Triphala
Guggul which combines a range of herbs known to tackle the
causative problems of high cholesterol as well as reduce high levels
of blood fats.
Relaxation: If you suffer from excess tension try using Ashwagandha
. It is a wonder herb for helping reduce tension in the body and
mind as well as strengthen the heart muscle.
Dietary suggestions: Eat a nourishing diet that removes
all processed foods, poor quality dairy, poor quality oils,
hydrogenated oils. Increase foods that are excellent for the heart.
Use garlic, turmeric, ginger and saffron. Include whole grains,
pulses and foods high in essential fatty acids such as hemp seed
oil. EFAs are renowned for helping to keep arteries clean and the
heart strong.
Avoid over-eating and eating frequently. Eat a
light breakfast and dinner. Lunch should be the main meal. Milk
products, fried foods, cold foods and acidic foods should be taken
in small quantities. White flour products and foods that contain
chemical preservatives and additives should be avoided. Animal
products, especially red meat, are not good as they take a long time
to be digested, and create a lot of toxins in the
stomach.....
Fried things, pulses and their preparations, and
groundnut oil are prohibited. Ayurvedic physicians allow butter or
ghee, and not groundnut oil. Cow's ghee, cow's milk and cows' butter
are useful for the patient. Buffalo ghee and buffalo milk are not
recommended. Stimulants like tea, coffee and alcoholic drinks are
very harmful for such patients.........
Lifestyle: Your heart needs a regular supply of oxygen and
it also must not be overstressed. Practice light aerobic exercise
and regular relaxation. Ayurveda would recommend some nourishing
yoga practices, such as the dynamic 'Sun Salutation' as well as
daily breathing practices (Pranayama). Ayurveda suggests exercising
within your own limitations and does not encourage excessive
exercise that leaves you tired. Yoga is exercise that leaves you
energised and fitter.
A very common cause of heart diseases is
mental stress. Regular practice of yoga and Pranayama (breathing
exercises) reduces stress levels. Also, meditation has been
scientifically proven to prevent as well as cure heart
diseases........
Panchakarma: A gentle head massage with or without oil
several times a week is very beneficial. A full-body self-massage
with oil once a week is also good.
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