Knowledge Base

What is Angina Pectoris? How it can be treated in Ayurveda?

by Dr Vaid Ji on Jul 22, 2024

What is Angina Pectoris? How it can be treated in Ayurveda?
Angina pectoris is a type of chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It is a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD) and often occurs during physical exertion or emotional stress when the heart requires more oxygen.

Main Causes of Angina Pectoris:

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): The most common cause, where the coronary arteries are narrowed or blocked due to atherosclerosis (build-up of plaque).
2. Coronary Artery Spasm: Temporary tightening of the muscles within the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.
3. Anemia: Reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood can lead to angina.
4. Tachycardia: Abnormally fast heart rate can increase oxygen demand and cause angina.
5. Hypertension: High blood pressure can increase the workload of the heart, leading to angina.
6. Heart Valve Diseases: Conditions like aortic stenosis or regurgitation can reduce blood flow to the heart muscle.
7. Other Factors: Smoking, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, lack of exercise, and emotional stress.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Angina Pectoris:

Ayurveda views angina pectoris as a result of imbalances in the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, and the accumulation of ama (toxins) in the arteries. The treatment focuses on balancing these doshas, detoxifying the body, and improving heart health.

The patient who has suffered from any kind of heart disease can experience several symptoms like shortness of breath, fluttering in chest, dizziness, fainting, tachycardia, bradycardia, etc. Dr Vaid Ji Heart Up Tablet helps in the functioning of heart by balancing the excessive amount of Vata, Pitta and Kapha Doshas. It is good for overall health in addition it aids your digestive health.Β 

1. Herbal Remedies:
Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna): Known for its cardioprotective properties and ability to improve cardiac function.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Helps reduce stress and strengthen the heart.Β 
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Reduces stress and improves overall cardiovascular health.
Guggulu (Commiphora mukul): Helps reduce cholesterol and improve circulation.
Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa): Acts as a heart tonic and improves blood flow.

2. Panchakarma:
Virechana (Purgation): To cleanse the body of toxins and balance Pitta dosha.
Basti (Medicated Enemas): To pacify Vata dosha and support cardiovascular health.

3. Dietary Recommendations:
Heart-Healthy Diet: Include whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Use healthy fats like olive oil and avoid trans fats.
Avoid: Processed foods, fried foods, excessive salt, and sugar.
Herbal Teas: Infusions of herbs like ginger, garlic, and tulsi (holy basil) to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.

4. Lifestyle Modifications:
Regular Exercise: Moderate physical activity like walking, yoga, or swimming to improve heart health and reduce stress.
Stress Management: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness to reduce stress and anxiety.
Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: To reduce the risk of heart disease.

5. Yoga and Pranayama:
Yoga: Poses like Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose), and Shavasana (Corpse Pose) to improve circulation and reduce stress.
Pranayama: Breathing exercises like Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing) and Bhramari (Bee Breathing) to calm the mind and improve oxygenation.

Precautions:

1. Monitor Symptoms: Regularly monitor chest pain and seek medical attention if the pain is severe, occurs frequently, or does not go away with rest.
2. Follow Medical Advice: Continue taking prescribed medications and follow the advice of your healthcare provider.
3. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, and manage stress effectively.
4. Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid activities or situations that trigger angina episodes.
5. Regular Check-ups: Regularly consult with a healthcare provider or Ayurvedic practitioner to monitor your heart health and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Ayurvedic treatments aim to provide a holistic approach to managing angina pectoris by addressing the root causes, improving heart health, and promoting overall well-being. Working with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner can help tailor the treatment plan to individual needs.