Understanding Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular disease in the light of Ayurveda

Maanasi Menon1, Sushma Naranappa Salethoor2, Thushara Madathil3

  • 1Dept. of Kayachikitsa, Amrita School of Ayurveda, Amrita Vishwavidyapeetham, Amritapuri, Kollam, Kerala, 690525, India.

Insights

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), a leading cause of death, may find new management strategies by integrating Ayurvedic principles for heart disease (Hridroga) with modern medicine. This approach emphasizes prevention and lifestyle changes for comprehensive care.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Integrative Health
  • Ayurvedic Studies

Background:

  • Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the leading global cause of mortality, exacerbated by modern lifestyles and the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Conventional treatments face challenges, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches.
  • Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healthcare system, offers a unique perspective on heart health and disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the potential of integrating Ayurvedic principles with modern medical knowledge for managing ASCVD.
  • To correlate Ayurvedic descriptions of Kaphaja Hridroga with the pathogenesis of ASCVD.
  • To develop a synergistic understanding of ASCVD aetio-pathogenesis through an Ayurvedic lens.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative analysis of Ayurvedic texts describing Kaphaja Hridroga and modern understanding of ASCVD.
  • Review of Ayurvedic management principles focusing on prevention and non-pharmacological interventions.
  • Conceptual framework for integrating Ayurvedic and conventional therapies.

Main Results:

  • Ayurvedic concepts of Kaphaja Hridroga show significant correlation with ASCVD.
  • Ayurvedic management emphasizes holistic approaches including diet, lifestyle modifications, and preventive care.
  • Integration of Ayurvedic principles can enhance conventional ASCVD therapy.

Conclusions:

  • Ayurveda offers valuable insights into the prevention and management of ASCVD.
  • A synergistic approach combining Ayurvedic and modern medicine can lead to more comprehensive cardiovascular care.
  • Further research into integrating these systems is warranted to combat the global burden of ASCVD.

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