Antihypertensive Drugs - Ayurvedic Perspective

Abstract

Hypertension is a very common disorder, particularly in past middle age. It is not a disease in itself, but is an important risk factor for cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. According to WHO, it is above 140/90 mmHg. An estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years worldwide have hypertension. American Association of Heart mentioned that normal blood pressure is less than 120 mmHg systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic. Epidemiological studies have confirmed that higher the pressure (systolic or diastolic or both) greater is the risk of cardiovascular disease. The principal focus of Ayurveda is on maintaining good health and adopting a healthy way of life. There is no description of such a single disease which can resemble with hypertension. It can be correlated with Vata Pradhaan Tridoshaj Vyadhi, Raktabhaar, Uchharaktachapa etc and involves dhatus like Rasa and Rakta and gets influenced by Mana. Our ancient science has provided us various drugs which influences the pressure of the blood. These drugs has directly or indirectly role in curing HTN for example Sarpagandha, Jatamansi, Rudraksh, Ashawgandha etc. which should be analysed by the physician clinically. This article would help future researchers and clinicians for administrating these drugs in different forms clinically and help further researches. There are specific alkaloids present in these drugs which influence different centres resulting in decrease in the Blood pressure. The present work deals with enhancing the role of Ayurvedic drugs and promoting more natural ways of treatment.