Healthy Heart – Vedaliving

The major underlying cause of cardiovascular disease has been associated with the buildup of fatty deposits within the walls of arteries that restricts the flow of blood. Ultimately, the arteries may get blocked affecting the heart, brain and other parts of the body. The lining of the arteries becomes thickened by fatty deposits called plaque. The artery walls become hard and thick as these deposits build up. Then the arteries lose their ability to expand and contract. If a clot of blood or plaque becomes lodged in one of these arteries, then the artery may become completely blocked. Then the body tissues that the artery supplies are deprived of needed oxygen and nutrients. When this happens, the tissues begin to die. If a blocked artery is to the heart, a heart attack may occur. If a blocked artery is to the brain, a stroke may occur.

There are some natural herbs which helps to support healthy functioning of the heart. As a dietary support, along with your healthy lifestyle including yoga, peaceful environment, daily walk, and healthy diet supports heart health. These herbs regulate lipid metabolism, increases HDL Cholesterol (which is good for heart health) and lowers LDL Cholesterol (which is bad for heart), reduces platelet adhesion, reduces anxiety, nervousness and stress, which directly affects the heart. The calming action improves high blood pressure. The excessive heart beat rate is controlled, dilates blood vessels and lowers BP.

Following are the 14 Ayurvedic herbs recommended for healthy heart

Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) Stem – The most renowned herb for cardio vascular system helps to restore the decaying blood vessels. It is considered as Cardio tonic and decrease the Kapha (Water) and Pita (Fire) and helps in proper functioning of heart and prevent the decaying of vessels. “Arjuna” is useful for all forms of heart problem. It tones the Heart , Stimulates Blood Circulation, Promotes Tissue Healing and Strengthens the heart muscle.
Amla (Emblica officinalis) Fruit – Due to its high vitamin C content and potent antioxidant properties. It helps in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to heart disease. Amla may also help lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood pressure, and improve blood circulation, thus supporting overall cardiovascular function. Consuming amla regularly as part of a balanced diet or as a supplement may contribute to a healthier heart and reduce the risk of heart-related conditions.
Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) Fruit – Its antioxidant properties help protects the heart from oxidative stress, while its anti-inflammatory effects may reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
Guggal (Commi-phoramukul) Gum resin – Its primary uses include managing cholesterol levels by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may reduce artery inflammation, aiding cardiovascular function. Shudh Guggul is also believed to regulate blood pressure, thanks to its antioxidant content that combats oxidative stress.
Ashwagandha (Withaniasomnifera) Root – It may help regulate cholesterol levels, lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while boosting HDL (good) cholesterol. Furthermore, Ashwagandha’s anti-inflammatory effects could contribute to improved cardiovascular function by reducing inflammation in the arteries.It has sedative action which helps in blissfull sleep and hence reducing stress.
Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) Plant – Its active compounds exhibit antioxidant properties, which can help protect the heart from oxidative stress and damage.
Punarnava (Boer-haviadiffusa) Root – In congestive cardiac ailments where there is the need to flush the kidneys, “Punarnava” helps to excrete the toxins from the renal system by augmenting the urinary output.
Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) Leaf – It has a profound effect on the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases by lowering blood lipid content, suppressing ischemia and stroke, reducing hypertension and also due to its higher antioxidant properties.
Dalchini (Cinnamomum cassia) Stem – Dalchini, or Cinnamomum cassia stem, is believed to benefit heart health by potentially lowering cholesterol levels and supporting healthy blood pressure due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Moti Pishti – It is revered in Ayurveda for its heart-strengthening properties. It acts as a cardiac tonic, enhancing heart muscle function and stabilizing irregular heart rhythms. Additionally, its cooling nature can alleviate heat-related issues like acidity, indirectly benefiting heart health.
Grapes (Vitis vinifera) Fruit – Rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and resveratrol, they help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, crucial factors in heart disease development. Regular consumption of grapes and grape products has been associated with lowered blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels, and enhanced blood vessel function, all contributing to a healthier cardiovascular system.
Pipali (Piper longum) Fruit – It provides better blood circulation and boosts up the immune system. Being diuretic helps in excreting the excessive fluids from the body, thus helping in proper circulation of nutrients.
Tambulpatri (Piper betle) Leaf – It reduces the palpitation and high Blood Pressure. Its active compounds possess antioxidant properties that can help protect the heart from oxidative damage.
Pushkarmool (Inula racemosa) Root – Pushkarmool act as an anti-inflammatory agent. It has the potential to manage various cardiac disorders like ischemic heart disease. It also may improve the function of the heart.

These herbs support healthy and proper function of the heart and circulatory system. Improves the flexibility of heart vessels and restore proper heart palpitation. These also helps support calmness and relaxation and reduce burning sensation of the body.

Ayurvedic Lifestyle

Light Exercise/Regular walking are always positive.
Drinking a good amount of water is always helpful.
Daily take juice of one lemon and honey with a glass of water empty stomach in the morning.
Positive thinking, Stress-free environment.
Nutritional diet, Morning walk, Yoga, Peaceful mind, Restful sleep.

Foods to Favor

Unpolished Rice, Green Gram (Lentil) Soup, Mango, Grapes, Pomegranate, Year Old Jaggery, Honey, Sandalwood, Tamarinds are useful. Fresh Seasonal Vegetables, Ginger, Coriander Leaves, Vinegar, Bitter Gourd can be taken in daily diet. Soya products are also useful.

Foods to Avoid

Fried and heavy meals should not be taken. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and junk, acidic and fatty food.
Excess use of non-vegetarian diet and spicy food should be avoided. Also- Sedentary lifestyle should be avoided.
High fat diet and high calories diet, excessive use of alcohol and smoking usually adversely affects the heart.
Salt, Caffeine, Regular Tea (Except Herbal Tea) should be minimized.
Extra use of hot spices and sour food should be limited.
Fried Food should be avoided.

Do’s

Eat fresh garlic in an empty stomach.
Drink a glass of milk with boiled garlic.
Eat fish which is good source of omega 3 fatty acids which is good for cholesterol health.

Don’ts