Cardiovascular Diseases (Hridroga)

Background

Cardiovascular disease (Commonly called heart disease) is a class of diseases that involve the heart, blood vessels (arteries, capillaries, and veins) or both. Although cardiovascular disease usually affects older adults, the antecedents of cardiovascular disease, notably atherosclerosis, begin in early life, making primary prevention efforts necessary from childhood. There is therefore increased emphasis on preventing atherosclerosis by modifying risk factors, such as healthy eating, exercise, and avoidance of smoking tobacco. Heart disease is essentially a clinical syndrome of characteristic chest pain produced by increased work of the heart and is usually relieved by rest.

In Ayurveda it is known as Hridroga. It is of several types depending upon the characteristic features of the pain. If the pain is acute, and of shifting nature, this is usually known as Vatika Hridroga. If it is associated with burning sensation, then it is called Paittika Hridroga. In Kaphaja Hridroga, the pain is usually very mild and it is associated with heaviness, nausea and cough.

Intervention/ Approaches

The following are some interventions/ approaches based on CCRAS research from published sources.

In case of angina (Vatika Hridroga):

Pushkara Guggulu - 2gm thrice a day for 6 months.

For prevention of atherosclerosis and control of hyperlipidaemia:

Guggulu (Commiphora wightii-crudz drug) 12-16gm/day in divided doses with lukewarm water for 3 months.

Medicinal Plants Useful in Cardiovascular Diseases (Hridroga)

Source : Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences