Abstract

ROLE OF INDIAN MEDICINE IN MANAGEMENT OF HYPERTENSION

*Prof. (Dr.) Punita Pandey

Abstract

In present day scenario hypertension is a major public health problem and has taken the form of pandemic. It is often called a silent killer as in most of the cases it goes unnoticed despite continuous detrimental changes in arterial system and vital organs of the body. As a result it often turns in lethal complications viz. myocardial infarction, stroke, renal failure, aneurysm etc. Previously considered a disease of old age is now prevalent in younger generation worldwide. Modern medicine divides hypertension in two groups viz. primary and secondary. 90- 95% of cases of hypertension comesunder primary or essential hypertension in which no cause is detected and only 5-10% case have some cause and are termed as secondary hypertension. Treatment of hypertension through modern medicine though brings the blood pressure down but in most of the cases patients have to bear the side effects of these chemical originated drugs. Indian medicine has holistic acumen and envisages diet, lifestyle and psyche responsible for maintenance of health and disease manifestation. From the perspective of Indian medicine unhealthy diet and lifestyle, chronic stress and anxiety, chronic hostility, anger, unresolved psychological issues contribute in overt manifestation of hypertension particularly essential hypertension. Principles and practices of Indian medicine when applied judiciously have the capability to address all aforementioned factors. Keeping this point of view in mind present study was planned and beside drug management non drug management in the form of Asana, Pranayam and Dhyan were also incorporated.

Keywords: Stress, Lifestyle, Holistic.