High blood pressure, commonly known as hypertension, is a significant risk factor for kidney health because the kidneys play a vital role in controlling blood pressure, so when high blood pressure goes uncontrolled, it can lead to kidney failure. May cause damage. Ayurvedic experts emphasize that Ayurveda approaches the management of high blood pressure and kidney health from a holistic approach, focusing on balance and natural remedies.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Arun Pillai, Wellness Director of Dharana, shared, “In Ayurveda, the human body is considered as a complex interplay of energies known as doshas, which include Vata, Pitta and Kapha are primary. In the context of high blood pressure and kidney health, Ayurvedic practitioners often see excessive Pitta dosha imbalance. Pitta is closely related to heat and transformative processes within the body. When there is an excess of bile, it can cause inflammation and put extra pressure on the kidneys, which can contribute to the development or exacerbation of high blood pressure.”
He explains, “One of the basic principles in Ayurveda for the management of hypertension is diet and lifestyle modification. We emphasize the importance of a balanced diet that includes cooling and soothing foods to pacify Pitta dosha. This may include adding foods like cucumber, watermelon and coconut water to your diet while reducing or avoiding spicy and salty foods that can increase high blood pressure. Herbal remedies also play an important role in the Ayurvedic management of high blood pressure and kidney health. Herbs such as Brahmi, Arjuna and Gokshura are traditionally used to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and support kidney function. These herbs can be prepared in various forms such as tea or capsules under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner.
Dr. Arun Pillai elaborated, “Another essential aspect of Ayurveda is stress management. Chronic stress is a common trigger for high blood pressure and can adversely affect kidney health. Ayurveda recommends practices like yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises to calm the mind and reduce stress levels. At Assumption, we offer special wellness programs that incorporate these practices to help guests manage their high blood pressure and aid kidney health. Detoxification is another important component of Ayurvedic treatment for high blood pressure and kidney health. Panchakarma, a purification therapy, is often recommended to remove toxins from the body and improve overall well-being. This may help reduce the burden on the kidneys and promote their optimal function. Ayurveda is an individual system of medicine. A qualified Ayurvedic practitioner will assess an individual’s unique constitution, imbalances and specific health concerns and create a treatment plan accordingly. This personalized approach ensures that treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs and helps manage high blood pressure while effectively supporting kidney health.
Dr. Amit Verma, Founder, of Vrikshakalp Ayurveda said, “Millions of people around the world suffer from high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. This poses a significant risk for a variety of cardiovascular conditions, such as heart attack and stroke. Additionally, high blood pressure can worsen kidney health and increase the risk of kidney failure or chronic kidney disease (CKD). Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing both high blood pressure and kidney health.
He highlighted the ways in which high blood pressure can affect kidney health –
- Decrease in blood flow: High blood pressure can narrow and weaken the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing blood flow to these vital organs. This reduced blood flow can impair the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and maintain proper fluid balance in the body.
- Proteinuria: High blood pressure can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, causing a condition called proteinuria. Proteinuria is the leakage of excessive amounts of protein into the urine, which is a sign of kidney damage.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Long-term uncontrolled high blood pressure can eventually lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is a progressive condition that impairs kidney function over time and can lead to kidney failure if left untreated.
Dr. Amit Verma said Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to managing high blood pressure and promoting kidney health. According to him, the major principles and Ayurvedic treatments include –
- Diet and Lifestyle: Ayurveda emphasizes a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Reducing the intake of salty and processed foods is essential for managing high blood pressure. Instead, focus on a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Incorporate stress management techniques like meditation and yoga to help reduce emotional and mental stress that contributes to high blood pressure.
- herbal remedy: Ayurveda uses a wide range of herbs to aid kidney health and reduce high blood pressure. Commonly used herbs include Punarnava, Gokshura and Arjuna. These herbs are known for their diuretic and blood pressure lowering properties.
- Panchakarma: Panchakarma is an Ayurvedic detoxification therapy that helps eliminate toxins from the body. It is beneficial for individuals with high blood pressure and kidney problems by promoting overall detoxification and balance in the body.
- Pranayama: Controlled breathing exercises, known as pranayam, reduce stress and lower blood pressure. Techniques such as Anulom-Vilom and Bhramari are particularly useful in the management of high blood pressure.
- Consult an Ayurvedic doctor: To create a personalized treatment plan it is necessary to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who can assess your individual constitution (Prakriti) and imbalances (Vikriti).
He stressed, “Ayurveda plays an important role in managing high blood pressure and promoting kidney health. However, for best results it is important to consult healthcare professionals and use Ayurvedic treatments along with conventional medical care. Ayurveda’s individualized and holistic approach can be a valuable contribution to the overall management of hypertension and kidney health.
Bringing in his expertise, Dr. Puneet, Founder Director, Karma Ayurveda said, “Hypertension or high blood pressure is a major cause of kidney disease and kidney failure. An often overlooked approach to managing high blood pressure and maintaining kidney health lies in Ayurveda. Yes, the integration of Ayurveda into nephrology opens up a world of possibilities to understand and address the complex relationship between hypertension and kidney health. Ayurveda, an ancient medical system that has stood the test of time, emphasizes the importance of balance in body, mind and spirit. This balance is fundamental to maintaining good health, and it is at the heart of the Ayurvedic approach to managing high blood pressure and promoting kidney health.
He reveals, “One of the primary principles of Ayurveda is that every person is unique, and therefore no two people can be treated the same. Therefore, an Ayurvedic practitioner identifies various constitutions or ‘doshas’ of the body and treats them accordingly. This personalized approach takes into account the specific needs of the patient, making Ayurveda a highly personalized form of care. Diet plays an important role in Ayurveda, and it can be a powerful tool in managing high blood pressure and preserving kidney health. Ayurvedic dietary recommendations often focus on reducing sodium intake and incorporating foods and spices known to have blood pressure-lowering properties. Ayurveda also emphasizes on stress management. Chronic stress is a well-known contributor to high blood pressure, and Ayurveda encourages stress-reducing techniques like meditation and yoga to help people deal with stress effectively. By calming the mind and reducing stress, we can indirectly reduce stress on the kidneys and promote overall well-being.
Dr. Puneet concludes, “Herbal remedies are another cornerstone of Ayurveda. Herbs like Gokshura and Punarnava are known for their diuretic properties and ability to support kidney function. Since they help control fluid overload, they also have a cardio-protective function. Ayurveda treatment reduces blood resistance and effectively controls bad cholesterol levels and stabilizes heart dynamics. These natural interventions alone or in combination with conventional medical treatments may help reduce the progression of kidney disease. While Ayurveda offers a holistic and personalized approach to managing high blood pressure and kidney health, it is important to take any type of medicine or herb only under the supervision of a registered Ayurvedic practitioner.
