Managing Low Blood Pressure with Herbal Medicine

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is a medical condition where a person's blood pressure is lower than the normal range. It is measured in systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number). Normal blood pressure is around 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) or lower. Low blood pressure can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition, such as dehydration, heart disease, thyroid disorders, or nerve damage.

Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure  

The symptoms of low blood pressure can vary depending on the severity of the condition but may include the following:  

1. Dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
2. Fainting or feeling like you might pass out.
3. Blurred vision.
4. Nausea.
5. Fatigue or weakness.
6. Rapid or shallow breathing.
7. Cold, clammy skin.
8. Pale skin.
9. Rapid or weak pulse.
10. Confusion or difficulty concentrating.

In severe cases, hypotension can cause shock, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention. It occurs when the organs and tissues of the body do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients due to a lack of blood flow. Symptoms of shock include rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, clammy skin, cold confusion, and loss of consciousness.  

What Causes Low Blood Pressure  

1. Dehydration: When the body loses too much water, it decreases blood volume and causes a drop in blood pressure.
2. Medications: Diuretics, beta-blockers, and antidepressants can lower blood pressure as a side effect.
3. Heart problems: Heart failure, heart attack, and arrhythmias reduce the amount of blood the heart pumps or disrupts the heart's ability to regulate blood pressure.
4. Endocrine problems: Disorders of the endocrine system, such as Addison's disease, low blood sugar, and hypothyroidism, causes hormonal imbalances and affect blood pressure regulation.
5. Blood loss: Severe bleeding due to trauma, surgery, or internal bleeding causes blood volume and blood pressure to drop.
6. Infection: Sepsis, a severe bacterial infection, affects the body's ability to regulate blood pressure.
7. Allergic reactions: Severe allergic reactions, or potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis, can cause low blood pressure by dilating blood vessels and reducing blood flow.
8. Pregnancy: According to American Heart Association, during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy, some women do have a drop in blood pressure and increased blood volume due to hormonal changes.

Also read: A Guide to Pregnancy Care Tips in Ayurveda for Pregnancy & Childbirth

Ayurveda and Low Blood Pressure  

Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine, originated in India thousands of years ago. According to the Ayurvedic principle, hypotension or low blood pressure is caused due to five factors:  

1. Weak digestion and poor absorption of nutrients
2. Imbalance in the Vata dosha due to stress, anxiety, or excessive physical activity
3. Dehydration
4. Nutritional deficiencies
5. Low blood sugar levels

 Ayurvedic treatments for low blood pressure typically focus on balancing the Vata dosha and improving circulation through herbs, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.  

 Also read: 5 Protein-Packed Foods for Healthy, Vegetarian Meals

Ayurvedic Medicines and Remedies for Low Blood Pressure  

Ayurvedic medicine for blood pressure includes herbs that have a heating and stimulating effect. Along with it, the patient should practice yoga and meditation. Physically being active and performing meditation is a home remedy to control cholesterol, blood pressure and other heart issues- as it reduces stress and promotes relaxation.  

 Additionally, it is recommended to have a shift in dietary habits. Include warm, nourishing foods and beverages to help improve digestion and circulation.   

Ayurvedic Remedies for Low Blood Pressure

1. Licorice Root: Mulethi or Licorice root is a popular Ayurvedic remedy for low blood pressure. It contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can increase blood pressure. Mulethi has a sweet taste; it helps in balancing Vata dosha.   

How to take: Consume it in the form of tea or capsule or chew it until all the juice is consumed.  

2. Ashwagandha: It is a powerful adaptogen that helps to regulate blood pressure. It also reduces stress and anxiety, which can contribute to low blood pressure. Ashwagandha is also a home remedy for lowering cholesterol.  

How to take: Mix it as a capsule or powder with water.  

3. Ginger: It is a natural vasodilator that can dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow.  

How to take: You can consume it in the form of tea or add it to your food.  

4. Tulsi: Also known as holy basil, it is an Ayurvedic herb that helps to regulate blood pressure. It contains antioxidants that protect the heart and improve blood circulation.  

How to take: Consume it in tea or a capsule.  

5. Cinnamon: Helps to regulate blood sugar levels and improve blood circulation.  

How to take: Consume it in the form of tea or add it to your food.  

Ayurvedic medicine for Heart Health

Cholesterol and improved overall heart function made purely from herbs and have no side effects are as follows:   

1. Divya Hridyamrit Vati: This Ayurvedic medicine is formulated with several herbs, such as Arjuna, Ashwagandha, and Shankhpushpi, which are believed to improve heart function and reduce cholesterol levels. It also clears the toxins from the system and strengthens the heart  

2. Dabur Arjunarishta: This Ayurvedic tonic is formulated with several herbs, including Arjuna, which is believed to strengthen the heart muscles and improve circulation.  

3. Unjha Hridayarnava Rasa: This Ayurvedic medicine is formulated with several herbs, including Arjuna and Ashwagandha, which are believed to strengthen the heart muscles, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve circulation.  

4. Dhootpapeshwar Suvarna Vasant Malti Ras: This Ayurvedic medicine is formulated with several herbs, including Swarna Bhasma, which is believed to strengthen the heart muscles and improve circulation.  

Be it home remedies or herbal supplements. It is important to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before taking them. 

Conclusion  

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing low blood pressure through natural remedies, lifestyle modifications, and dietary changes. It emphasizes the importance of balancing the mind, body, and spirit. To help manage low blood pressure, make some dietary changes, such as increasing salt intake and consuming warm and nourishing foods to boost energy levels. Ayurvedic consultants at Healthy Bazar can guide you to take proactive steps towards better health and well-being.