Ayurveda is the most ancient medical science of the world. It conceives and describes the basic and applied aspects of life process, health, disease and its management in terms of its own principles and approaches. The body contains 107 Marmas, among which Trimarma – Hriday, Basti, and Shira are – the most significant, as they are vital centers of consciousness. Of these, the heart holds paramount importance, as it is the seat of the ten Dhamanis, Prana – Apana, Man, Buddhi, Chetana, and the Mahabhutas. Therefore, the heart is considered the most crucial marma in the body. Hridaya (Heart) plays an important role in maintaining physical as well as mental wellbeing of an individual.
हृदयं चेतनास्थानमुक्तं।।
As we know Poshan Maah is an initiative under the Pradhan Mantri Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition (POSHAN) Abhiyaan. The primary goal is to improve nutritional outcomes for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
Among these, the development of the heart is especially crucial from birth, as it begins to form in the fourth month of pregnancy. In Sushruta Samhita, it is mentioned that if a pregnant woman is not provided with the desired foods or items during the fourth month of pregnancy, it can lead to congenital deformities like Kuni, Khanj, Jad, Vaman, Vikrut Aksha. Therefore, it is essential to ensure proper care from the very beginning. For this purpose, Garbhadhan Sanskar is highly beneficial.
In Ayurveda, the heart (Hridaya) is considered the seat of Ojas, the essence of vitality and immunity. A balanced heart is the foundation for physical health and emotional well-being. The ancient texts of Ayurveda emphasize the importance of Ahara (diet), Vihara (lifestyle), and Aushadha (herbal medicines) in maintaining heart health.
Ahar (Diet)
“In Sushrut Samhita, it is mentioned that Hridaya originates from the Prasada Bhaga of Shonita and Kapha, which supports the Prana Vaha Dhamanis. The circulation of Rasa(nutrition) throughout the body is facilitated by Vyana Vayu with the help of Hridaya. However, consuming improper food can lead to the formation of Ama in the body, which harms Hridaya firstly and hinders its ability to circulate effectively throughout the body. That’s why it is crucial to consume food as per Ashtavidhi Visheshayatan (Rules for intake of food) Here, I am describing the role of Ahar (diet) as outlined in our ancient texts.
Shaak (Vegetables) – Patol (Parval), Vartak (Brinjal), Kushmand (Pumkin), Shigru (Drumstick), Kushtumbaru (Coriander), Rai (mustard), Yavani (Ajwaiyan), Guduchi, Karavellak (Bitter Gaurd), Shatavari Kand.
Phala (Fruits) – Draksha, Dadim, Matulunga, Kashmarya Phala, Pippali, Narikel (Coconut), Kharjoor.
Ahara Varga (Food) – Saindhav, Sauvarchal, Mudga Yusha, Gud + Dadhi, Puran Gud, Raktashali, Patol Nimba Yusha.
Vihar (Lifestyle)
Ayurveda plays great importance on a balanced lifestyle, known as Vihara, for maintaining heart health. Regularly we should follow Dinacharya (daily routine), physical activity, sufficient sleep, and effective stress management are key components of Vihara that significantly contribute to cardiovascular wellness.
Dinacharya (Daily Routine):
A well-structured daily routine that includes waking up early, practicing yoga, and engaging in Pranayama (breath control) helps maintain the balance of Doshas, thereby supporting heart health. Abhyanga (self-massage) with warm, medicated oils such as sesame or mustard oil enhances circulation and alleviates stress, providing benefits to the heart.
Vyayama (exercise) is of utmost importance for maintaining heart health. In today’s era, heart attacks have become increasingly common during exercise. The ancient texts, Ashtanga Hridaya, emphasize the concept of Ardhashaktyanishevyastu, which means we should exercise at half of our strength or capacity. Overexertion can lead to complications such as severe Hrid Shoola (Heart attack). The Samhitas also state that exercise can aggravate Vata dosha, Snigdha diet or meal one should consume after completing exercise to restore balance.
Veg Dharan (Suppression of Natural Urges)
In Ayurveda, two types of natural vega(Urges) are described: those that should be suppressed (धारणीय वेग) and those that should not be suppressed (अधारणीय वेग). Among these, suppressing natural urges such as defecation, thirst, coughing, belching, tears etc can lead to conditions like heart disturbances, heart disease, and other ailments affecting cardiac health.
Nidra (Sleep)
Adequate sleep is vital for heart health. Ayurveda advises sleeping early and rising before sunrise to align with the body’s natural circadian rhythms. Insufficient sleep can aggravate Vata and Pitta doshas, leading to heightened stress and potential heart problems.
Prevention and Cure of Disease:
To prevent Hridroga, it is important to avoid the causative factors described in ancient texts, Veg Dharan (Suppression of natural urges), Ati Ushna(Hot) Anna, Ati Ruksha(Dry) Anna, Viruddha Ahara(Unwholesome diet), Adhyashan( Excessive intake of food), Ajirna (Indigestion), Asatmaya Bhojan (Not compatible food) as these are identified as the root causes of the condition. By avoiding these factors, we can effectively prevent the onset of Hridaroga.
Various treatments such as Nabhipuran, Hrdayabasti, Marma Therapy, Jalauka Avacharan, Hrid Parishek, Hrida Pradeha, Langan, etc., will be employed in the Chikitsa (Treatment) based on the Dosha involvement and Doshavastha.
Conclusion:
Ayurveda offers a time-tested, holistic approach to heart health that is deeply rooted in the principles of nutrition, lifestyle, and herbal medicine and it is our foremost duty to protect our heart from harmful influences because the heart is the sustainer of the entire body, the conduit of love, and the essence of life itself—
“Hridaya Sarvasharira Dharanam Sneha Sancharinam Jivanyanam.”