Ayurveda's role in preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases: A comprehensive review

In recent years, lifestyle changes, heavy diets, and environmental shifts have led to a notable increase in the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Hridroga, the collective term for heart-related illnesses in Ayurveda, has become increasingly common as a result. CVDs encompass a wide range of heart and blood vessel disorders, including coronary heart disease, heart attacks, cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke, hypertension, peripheral artery disease, rheumatic heart disease, congenital heart disease, and heart failure. Ayurveda attributes heart-related disorders primarily to imbalances in the three doshas, and restoring their equilibrium poses a complex challenge in treating CVDs. Herbal remedies have played an integral role in human healthcare throughout history, with various traditional medical systems employing them for treating numerous ailments. Ayurveda stands as one of the oldest and globally recognized traditional systems of medicine. This review paper explores the pivotal role of Ayurveda in preventing, managing, and assessing CVDs through interventions related to diet (Ahara), lifestyle (Vihara), seasonal routines (Ritucharya), yoga, daily routines (Dinacharya), and rejuvenation therapies (Rasayana). The paper sheds light on how Ayurveda's holistic approach addresses the root causes of CVDs, offering valuable insights into preventive strategies, lifestyle modifications, and herbal interventions. By synthesizing traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific understanding, this review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on the potential of Ayurveda in combating the rising burden of cardiovascular diseases in modern society.