New Delhi, October 25 (IANS). Nowadays, in our busy life, eating habits and stress first affect our heart. Due to junk food, excessive oily-spicy food and lack of physical exercise, cholesterol starts increasing in the body, due to which the blood flow to the heart stops.
This sometimes results in heart attack or stroke. Regarding this, Ayurveda believes that if the body is balanced and the digestive system is strong, then cholesterol can be controlled automatically.
Many herbs have been mentioned in Ayurveda for heart care, the most prominent of which is Arjuna bark. The Arjuna tree is found in almost every part of India and its bark is considered a heart medicine. It helps in keeping the arteries clean, improving blood circulation and strengthening the heart muscles.
Scientific studies have also found that the natural antioxidants and tannins present in Arjuna bark help in reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) deposited in the body, while promoting good cholesterol (HDL). This is the reason why many Ayurvedic doctors consider it important for strengthening the heart.
Arjuna bark is commonly used in powder form. By boiling it in milk or water and drinking it at night, its effect gradually starts appearing in the body. In Ayurvedic texts it has been called ‘Hridaya Balya’ i.e. a medicine that strengthens the heart. Its taste is a little astringent, but its benefits are many. Regular consumption keeps blood pressure balanced, reduces the chances of blockage and maintains energy circulation in the body.
According to science, there are elements found in Arjuna bark which are helpful in gradually melting the fat accumulated in the arteries. It improves the metabolism of the body and helps in keeping the lipid profile balanced. Apart from this, the flavonoids and saponins found in it fight free radicals in the body, thereby keeping the artery walls strong. It keeps the heart calm not only physically but also mentally. At the same time, daily light exercise, meditation, yoga and balanced diet are necessary to keep the heart healthy.
–IANS
PK/AS