Unveiling the AyurvedicApproach to Water Balance and Hypertension: Insights and Connections.

Abstract

Background: Hypertension (HTN) is a non-communicable disease that contributes to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and premature mortality and disability. The majority of cardiovascular disease deaths, approximately 80%, occur in low and middle-income countries such as India. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the Ayurvedic perspective on HTN to enable Ayurvedic healthcare providers to effectively manage HTN and its complications. Objective: The aim of this article is to review the Ayurvedic concept of water balance, blood, and blood pressure, and investigate their potential involvement in the development of HTN. Materials and Methods: We conducted a critical review of scattered references in Ayurvedic literature pertaining to water balance and the role of Doshas in maintaining it. Results: Water constitutes a major component of blood, and alterations in plasma volume can impact blood pressure levels. The literature review highlighted the similarity between the properties of Kapha and Pitta and the water-dominant attributes, suggesting their potential to disrupt water balance. Conclusion: Ayurveda emphasizes the greater involvement of Kapha and Pitta in maintaining water balance in the body, while Vata is responsible for its circulation. Factors leading to the imbalance of Kapha and Pitta may initiate and contribute to the pathogenesis of hypertension, which necessitates thorough consideration for effective Ayurvedic management.