Hypertension
Hypertension is high blood pressure, linked in Ayurveda to Pitta & Vata imbalance, affecting heart health.
About Hypertension
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the blood pressure in your arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Each time your heart beats, it pumps blood throughout your body. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and recorded with two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart is at rest).
Ayurveda links hypertension to vitiated doshas, particularly Pitta (fire element) and Vata (air element). When imbalanced, Pitta's fiery energy can lead to excess heat and pressure in the blood vessels. Vata's erratic movement can disrupt blood flow.
TYPES:
- Primary (essential) hypertension:This is the most common type of hypertension. It has no identifiable cause. It is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, diet, and lifestyle.
- Secondary hypertension:This type of hypertension is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as, Kidney disease, Obstructive sleep apnea, Adrenal gland tumour, Thyroid problems.
Common Causes
- Family history: Having a family history of hypertension increases your risk.
- Diet: A diet high in salt (sodium) and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can increase your risk of hypertension.
- Weight: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of hypertension.
- Physical inactivity: A lack of physical activity can increase your risk of hypertension.
- Smoking: Smoking can damage your arteries and increase your risk of hypertension.
- Excessive alcohol use: Drinking too much alcohol can increase your risk of hypertension.
- Stress: Chronic stress can increase your risk of hypertension.
Ayurvedic Perspective
Treatment and Management:
Lifestyle Changes -
- Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is recommended. Limiting salt, spicy foods, and stimulants is crucial.
- Exercise: Regular exercise like yoga or brisk walking helps manage weight and reduce stress.
- Sleep: Getting enough restful sleep is essential for regulating blood pressure.
- Stress Management: Techniques like meditation and pranayama (breathing exercises) can help manage stress, a major contributor to high blood pressure.
Herbal Remedies -
- Herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Arjuna, Triphala, Guduchi, and Shankhpushpi are commonly used to support cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and balance Pitta.
Therapies:
- Panchakarma Therapies: Panchakarma, a detoxification and rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda, can be beneficial for hypertension. Treatments like Shirodhara (pouring of medicated oils on the forehead), Abhyanga (therapeutic oil massage), and Nasya (nasal administration of herbal oils) help in calming the mind and balancing doshas.
- Hydrotherapy: Water treatments like cold compresses, contrast showers, and hydrotherapy baths can improve circulation and reduce blood pressure.
- Yoga Asanas and Pranayama:
Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation): Energizes the body and calms the mind.
Padmasana (Lotus Pose): Encourages deep breathing and relaxation.
Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balances energy channels and reduces stress.
Bhramari Pranayama (Bee Breath): Calms the mind and reduces anxiety.
Home remedies:
- Garlic: Known for its blood-thinning properties, it can be consumed raw or cooked.
- Arjuna: This herb has cardioprotective effects and helps strengthen blood vessels.
- Ashwagandha: An adaptogenic herb that can help manage stress and potentially lower blood pressure.
- Triphala: This herbal blend promotes detoxification and may improve circulation.
- Bananas: Rich in potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure.
- Coriander: This herb has diuretic properties and can help reduce excess fluid in the body.
Common Symptoms
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
Recommended Treatments
Panchakarma
Classical Ayurvedic cleansing and restoration physician‑supervised, personalised, and gentle. Panchakarma at Atmabodh is a carefully sequenced program that helps release accumulated ama (metabolic waste), calm aggravated doshas, and reset digestion (agni). Every plan is doctor‑led, adapted to your constitution and current state, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when required. Panchakarma supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Suitability is confirmed only after clinical assessment. Who is it for? Digestive & metabolic balance: heaviness, bloating, irregular appetite, sluggishness. Musculoskeletal comfort: stiffness, recurrent aches, postural tension. Skin & scalp support: dryness/roughness, oil imbalance, seasonal flares (as advised). Stress, sleep & mind: restlessness, fatigue, shallow sleep, overdrive. Respiratory ease: seasonal congestion, head–neck load; post‑illness convalescence (only with clearance). Women’s health routines: peri‑menopause transitions, cycle comfort (timed away from menstruation). Eligibility is case‑specific; some conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What are the “Five Actions”? Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – selected kapha presentations. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enema) – anuvāsana (oil), niruha/kashāya (decoction), matra (micro‑dose). Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head–neck pathways, preceded by local prep. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; specialist‑only, strict protocols. Not everyone receives all five; your physician selects the minimum effective pathway. How it works – the three phases Pūrva‑karma (Preparation) Snehana (Oleation): internal ghee/oil titration (if indicated) + external abhyanga. Swedana (Fomentation): steam/heat to soften tissues and mobilise doshas. Diet prep: light, warm, easy‑to‑digest meals; reduction of stimulants. Pradhāna‑karma (Main procedure) The chosen action (e.g., virechana, basti) performed on the medically optimal day. Close monitoring of vitals, comfort, and response. Paśchāt‑karma (Recovery & Rasāyana) Samsarjana‑krama: stepwise diet progression from thin gruels to normal meals. Gentle routine, rest, and targeted rejuvenation. Pre‑program preparation (what we do together) Clinical history, vitals, and relevant labs (as advised). Explain what to expect, precautions, and consent. Set a realistic schedule (typically 10–21+ days depending on goals and responses). Plan for lighter work/social load during intensive days. A typical day during Panchakarma (illustrative) Quiet morning start → vitals & doctor check‑in. Abhyanga (warm oil application) → Swedana (steam) as pre‑procedure. Main procedure on indicated days (e.g., virechana or basti); otherwise supportive care. Simple, warm meals at set times; hydration guidance. Rest, gentle walks, breath‑led relaxation; screen and stimulation kept low. Diet & recovery – Samsarjana‑Krama(post‑procedure) Stage 1: thin rice gruel (peya/kanji). Stage 2: thicker gruel (vilepi). Stage 3: soft rice + light lentils/vegetables (yavāgu/khichri‑style). Stage 4: gradual return to regular, warm, fresh meals. Spices, oils, and portions are adjusted case‑by‑case. No fasting or extremes unless prescribed. Safety, eligibility & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy, active infection/fever, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, severe anemia, active ulcers, recent surgery, frailty, acute psychiatric crises. Medications are not stopped or altered without your treating doctor’s advice. Informed consent; hygienic protocols; vitals monitoring when indicated. We coordinate with your physician upon request. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion, clearer appetite cues, reduced abdominal discomfort. Ease and suppleness in joints and soft tissue. Calmer mind, steadier energy, improved sleep quality. Skin comfort and scalp balance. A renewed baseline for sustainable lifestyle change. Timelines vary. Many guests observe a shift within 2–4 weeks with adherence to guidance. Related Therapies Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga (whole‑body oiling) Snehapāna (measured internal oleation, if indicated) Swedana (steam/sudation) Head–neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara Shiroabhyanga (head–neck oiling) Nasya (also one of the five, used in specific plans) Localized applications Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti (warm oil pooling) Pichu (oil‑soaked pad) Kizhi (Potli) (herbal bolus compress) Udvartana (herbal powder rub) Lepam (herbal paste packs) Recovery & rejuvenation Rasāyana guidance (diet, routine, sleep hygiene, gentle movement) Breath‑led relaxation / Yoga Nidra
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Naturopathy
Drug‑sparing, lifestyle‑centered care that helps your body’s innate healing—gentle, practical, and doctor‑supervised. Naturopathy at Atmabodh focuses on restoring balance through non‑invasive methods: therapeutic diet, water and heat applications, mud therapy, movement, rest, and routine. Plans are personalised to your constitution, goals, and current health status, and coordinated with your medical care when required. Naturopathy supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or emergency care. Please continue prescribed medicines and consult your physician for illnesses. Why choose Naturopathy at Atmabodh? Doctor‑informed, therapist‑delivered protocols with clear goals and safety checks. Personalised sequencing of diet, hydrotherapy, mud, rest, and gentle activity. Integrative options with Ayurveda, Yoga Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Acupuncture as needed. Measured & gentle—we prioritise comfort, pacing, and sustainable habits. Clear take‑home guidance so your results continue beyond the center. Who can benefit? Digestive balance: bloating, sluggish bowels, acidity tendency (non‑acute). Metabolic support: sustainable weight management habits and energy stability. Stress & sleep: overdrive, poor sleep quality, fatigue. Skin comfort: dryness/irritation support with routine, hydration, and diet simplicity. Musculoskeletal ease: stiffness, posture‑related aches (alongside physio/yoga as indicated). Cardio‑metabolic lifestyle care: BP/sugar rhythm support (doctor‑coordinated). Women’s health: menstrual comfort, perimenopause routines (timing‑aware). Suitability is individual; certain conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What happens in your consult? Case‑taking: digestion/sleep/stress, appetite/bowels, work routine, medical history and labs. Assessment: hydration, temperature tolerance, skin and tissue feel, posture/movement basics. Plan design: diet framework, hydro/mud applications, rest schedule, gentle movement, breathwork. Education: why each element matters, pacing, and what to expect. Follow‑ups: refine frequency/intensity based on response. Therapies you may receive Hydrotherapy (water & temperature applications) Sitz bath (cool/warm/contrast) for pelvic/abdominal circulation. Spinal bath / spinal spray to soothe back and nervous system. Foot/arm baths for local circulation and calming. Jet/whirlpool (as available) for myofascial relaxation. Fomentation (hot packs/steam) and contrast applications for tissue ease. Packs & compresses Abdominal/chest/throat packs (warm or cool) for comfort and rhythm. Wet sheet/partial wraps for systemic calming (used selectively). Mud therapy Local mud packs (abdomen/eyes/joints) to cool, soothe, and draw heat. Full/partial mud application (as indicated) followed by gentle wash. Dietary & routine care Sattvik diet templates, hydration rhythms, meal timing, mindful eating. Rest & sleep hygiene, sunlight exposure (heliotherapy as suited). Movement & mind‑body Yoga Therapy (gentle mobility, breathwork), walking, relaxation practices. All therapies are customised to comfort, season, and safety. Not every modality suits every person. Daily flow (typical) Morning check‑in → vitals & plan review. Light movement/breath‑led warm‑up. Scheduled hydro/mud applications. Simple, warm meals at fixed times. Afternoon rest; short walk; relaxation. Early, light dinner; evening wind‑down. Diet & lifestyle pillars Regular meals: warm, fresh, minimally processed foods. Hydration: warm water/herbal infusions; avoid extremes. Gentle movement daily; avoid overexertion during intensive days. Screen & stimulant limits in the evening. Sunlight & fresh air exposure as suited. Safety & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy (certain applications), uncontrolled BP/diabetes, acute infections/fever, severe anemia, recent surgery, active ulcers, frailty, significant cardiac/renal/hepatic disease. Temperature extremes and long fasting are not used without medical clearance. Medications are not changed by therapists; coordinate with your doctor. Hygiene, consent, and comfort checks are standard; vitals monitored when indicated. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion and steadier appetite cues. Improved sleep onset and morning freshness. Reduced soft‑tissue tension and easier movement. Calmer mood and better stress tolerance. A practical routine you can continue at home. Timelines vary. Many guests observe change within 3–7 days when plans are followed.
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Yoga Therapy
Gentle, evidence‑informed practices tailored to your body, breath, and life. Yoga Therapy at Atmabodh blends classical yogic wisdom with modern therapeutic insights. Each session is personalised focusing on breath, mindful movement, and relaxation to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and restore ease. Why choose Yoga Therapy? Personalised: One‑to‑one care plans based on your goals, abilities, and health history. Whole‑person approach: Works on body, breath, mind, emotions, and daily routines. Safe & gradual: Gentle progressions with options for pain, fatigue, or limited mobility. Integrative: Complements medical treatment and physiotherapy; we coordinate when needed. Practical: Short home practices you can realistically maintain. Yoga Therapy supports your healing journey but does not replace medical care. Please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Who can benefit? Musculoskeletal: Back/neck pain, knee/shoulder issues, postural strain, arthritis. Stress & sleep: Anxiety, burnout, insomnia, overwhelm. Respiratory: Asthma, breathlessness, long‑COVID recovery (post‑medical clearance). Women’s health: Menstrual discomfort, perimenopause symptoms, prenatal/postnatal support. Digestive & metabolic: Indigestion, IBS, lifestyle support for diabetes and hypertension. Neurological & nervous system: Tension headaches, migraine, high reactivity/sensitivity. What happens in a session? Brief check‑in: Current symptoms, energy, mood, medications, red flags. Breath‑led movement: Gentle, pain‑free ranges to mobilise joints and release tension. Stability work: Core and postural support using slow, mindful strengthening. Nervous system down‑shift: Breathwork, guided relaxation, or Yoga Nidra. Mindfulness: Simple focus practices to build present‑moment awareness. Home plan: 10–20 minute routine with clear steps (video/handout provided). Typical session length: 60 minutes (first visit 75–90 minutes for assessment). How it works (in simple steps) Initial assessment – health history, movement screen, breathing patterns, goals. Personalised plan – curated postures, breath ratios, relaxation, daily habits.
View Treatment →FAQs
Q: What is hypertension according to Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, hypertension is linked to an imbalance in the Doshas, mainly Vata and Pitta, affecting blood flow and vessel health.
Q: Can Ayurveda cure hypertension permanently?
Ayurveda focuses on long-term management by balancing Doshas, improving lifestyle, and reducing stress, but regular monitoring is essential.
Q: What Ayurvedic remedies help in controlling high blood pressure?
Common remedies include herbs like Ashwagandha, Arjuna, Sarpagandha, and stress-reducing practices like Yoga and Pranayama.
Q: Is Ayurvedic treatment safe for hypertension patients?
Yes, when taken under professional guidance. Some herbs may interact with allopathic medicines, so expert advice is important.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
Improvements can be seen in a few weeks with proper diet, herbal medicines, and lifestyle changes, but it varies by individual.
Q: What diet does Ayurveda suggest for hypertension?
A sattvic diet low in salt, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and cooling herbs is recommended.
Q: Can Ayurveda be taken alongside allopathic medicine for BP?
Yes, but always consult both your Ayurvedic doctor and your physician to ensure safe integration.