Table of Contents
Introduction : Cholesterol and Ayurveda
Ayurveda considers a multidimensional approach to hypercholesterolemia, which involves dietary restriction, behavioural modification, exercise, and the management of causative factors. In Ayurveda, a balanced diet is the cornerstone of good health. Cholesterol is a fatty acid produced by the liver and is needed by the body for various functions, including hormone production, bile acid, and vitamin D.
Excessive cholesterol can clog the blood vessels and lead to heart attacks. Treatment for high cholesterol in Ayurveda stresses the importance of balancing the diet and lifestyle. Treatment For High Cholesterol in Ayurveda also recommends strict dietary control and yoga.
Causes of High Cholesterol
If you’re interested in finding out the causes of High Cholesterol, you’re in the right place. Ayurveda identifies several common causes. One of these causes is poor diet and lifestyle habits. Excess doshas and biocharacteristics in the body lead to high cholesterol and other health problems. While it may seem counter-intuitive to cut down on cholesterol, a healthy diet and lifestyle can help your body stay healthy.
In Ayurveda, high cholesterol is classified as Hridroga. Hridroga is a disease of the Cardio-Vascular System. Ayurvedic remedies target the genesis of atherosclerosis and the toxic transformation of LDL. Ayurveda remedies not only benefit people with high cholesterol, but also those with low cholesterol. Here’s what to avoid when trying to treat high cholesterol.
Treatment for High Cholesterol in Ayurveda
Treatment for high cholesterol in Ayurvedic medicine involves the use of herbs. Inclusion of medicines that are Ushna, Teekshna, Rookshna in nature are used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for hyperlipidemia. Herbs like garlic (Allium sativum), guggulu, and arjuna are having such properties and they are well-known for their cholesterol-lowering properties. Treatment For High Cholesterol in Ayurveda also includes external Ayurvedic therapies like Udwarthanam, Bashpa Sweda etc are proven to help to reduce Cholesterol in an efficient way.
Ayurveda stresses the role of metabolic processes in maintaining health and managing disease. The term “Agni” is used collectively to describe all bodily metabolic functions. It also emphasizes the need to understand and control stress and other psychological factors, including smoking. In addition, this ancient system of medicine encourages a vegetarian diet, which is said to be better for the heart than red meat.
Diet for Lowering Cholesterol Levels in Ayurveda
The ancient science of Ayurveda has helped thousands of people live healthier lives by lowering their cholesterol levels. It has long recommended that you eat a diet that balances the five doshas and avoid lifestyle habits that can aggravate high cholesterol. Following a diet that is based on a Kapha-pacifying diet is a good start.
In Treatment For high Cholesterol in Ayurveda , its mentioned that accumulation of cholesterol is due to an imbalance in the body’s meda dhatu (digestive system), assimilation, and elimination. This means that the proper balance of these three elements is important for cholesterol levels in the blood. The liver is also responsible for controlling cholesterol levels. A healthy liver is essential for a healthy lifestyle, and so should be a part of your diet.
Herbal Remedies for Lowering Cholesterol Levels
Herbal remedies for lowering cholesterol levels in Ayurveda can reduce cholesterol levels significantly when combined with healthy habits.
Garlic contains Allicin, the active ingredient in garlic, which helps in lowering cholesterol levels. It should be mixed with ginger root and lime juice and consumed before a meal. Turmeric also has a modest hypolipidemic effect on cholesterol levels and can be consumed daily or as directed by an Ayurvedic doctor. Psyllium husk is another good way to reduce cholesterol levels.
Holy Basil and Tulsi leaves are known for their ability to disintegrate cholesterol in the body and help eliminate it through the kidneys. You can take a few leaves of the plant daily, and an Ayurvedic doctor can prescribe a special blend for you.