MANAGEMENT OF BAD CHOLESTEROL WITH AYURVEDA

Cholesterol is soft fat like substance present in human body and it is necessary to maintain various important functions in our body like hormone functions and building new cells. Every human body needs this cholesterol but accumulation of excessive fat is a biggest trouble to human body. 70-80% of bad cholesterol comes from the fatty and unhealthy food we are eating daily. Best example of cholesterol we are taking found in the food is from animals like meat, poultry, cheese, butter etc. other foods that do not contain cholesterol in our body contribute transfats that are also harmful for our body. These cholesterols along with various proteins are carried through our blood stream. These proteins are called lipoproteins, high density lipoproteins are called good cholesterol and low density lipoproteins are called bad cholesterol present in our body. When the low density lipoproteins are accumulated in arteries and cause hardening of arteriesthen this condition is called atherosclerosis. In medical terms this disorder is also named as hypercholesterolemia. People with arteriosclerosis are at the major risk of heart troubles like heart failure, stroke and heart attacks.

Unhealthy eating habits, lack of exercise and physical inactivity, excessive use of alcohol and smoking, various medical conditions like diabetes, obesity and hypertension, family history with heart troubles are the various causes that are responsible for accumulation of bad cholesterol in human body.

According to Ayurveda when we are eating unhealthy, oily and fatty diets it results in weakening of our digestive fire. Due to weak digestive fire under or ill digested products (aama according to Ayurveda) are accumulated in our blood channels along with vitiated kapha-dosha. Excess accumulation of this aama in our arteries results in fat blockage and this blockage is called bad cholesterol. According to Ayurveda principles small amounts of cholesterol is very necessary for the lubrication of body’s small circulatory channels (srotas) whereas excessive accumulation is harmful for human body.

Every other day and now, we are taking modern medicines to treat quickly this harmful condition that include statins, resins, and fibrates and cholesterol absorption inhibitors. But we ignore and bear the brunt of harmful effects of these medications for our digestive system and other vital organs. These medicines directly affect our digestive system and cause various symptoms like chronic constipation, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness and muscle ache, drowsiness, dizziness, skin allergies and various sleep related troubles. These medications also give rise to various intestinal and liver problems. Use of statins on daily basis is one major reason that causes type 2 diabetes.

Principle of Ayurveda to treat bad cholesterol is not to reduce the level of cholesterol in body directly, first of all Ayurveda focuses on body’s metabolism and digestive system. One of the simple and effective ways to fight against weak digestion is by means of Ayurveda herbs. Line of treatment of Ayurveda is totally different from allopathic medicines.

Yamuna pharmacyprovides you various effective ayurvedic treatments to manage this problem naturally in the form of Garli-Zn-Co capsule and Lipolyt capsule and Gulvalex capsule. Pure extract of natural herbs of Ayurveda are used to formulate these products to fight against bad cholesterol in human body. Regular use of these ayurvedic products help to fight against medical condition like hyperlipidaemia and hypercholesterolemia. Regular intake is very beneficial for over weight people and people with high level of triglycerides. These ayurvedic products combat with atherosclerosis and various other cardiac troubles.

Garli-Zn-Co capsule Comprising Allium sativum, Phyllanthus emblica, Nardosatachys jatamansi, Aloe vera, Inula racemosa, Albizzia lebbeck, Tinospora cordifolia and Yashad are various Ayurveda herbs and minerals used to prepare this effective ayurvedic product to manage bad cholesterol naturally. All these herbs used in this ayurvedic product help to reduce the excessive accumulation of fats in body and naturally reduce the blockage of arteries. Anti-oxidant properties of herbs help to stimulate our natural immunity and it also helps to fight with serious infections and harmful free radicals responsible for this problem. Anti-inflammatory effects reduce the serious and chronic inflammation in body and give long term relief.

Lipolyt capsule– Nagarmotha, Bidanga, Chitrak, Pippali, Maricha, Vishva bheshaj, Amalaki, Haritaki, Vibhataki, Elua, Rason, Karchoor, Shallaki, and Shuddha guggulu are  various herbs of Ayurveda used in the preparation of this ayurvedic product to manage bad cholesterol and triglycerides (Fat loss Medication). Herbs used in this ayurvedic product are appetizer in nature and help to stimulate our digestive fire. These herbs fight against the harmful toxins (aama) as a result of weak digestion and responsible for accumulation of bad cholesterol in our body. Triphala used in this ayurvedic treatment is also very beneficial to fight against chronic constipation. Piercing nature of these herbs clears the blockages and harmful fat from our arteries. These herbs are good to manage aama and treat nausea, vomiting and various other troubles of digestive system. Regular use of this ayurvedic product improves our physical stamina and natural strength. Regular intake makes our immune system more strong so that it can fight against any type of disease and infections.

Gulvalex capsule – Comprises extract of Tinospora cordifolia  as per approved strength.Very beneficial for patients suffering from bad cholesterols as also other troubles described here under :-

Above mentioned the ayurvedic products are safe to use and work on the major root cause of problem. They give permanent relief from the problem and do not harm the molecular level of our body cells and other vital organs. Regular intake of these herbal products for the maintenance of disease do not give rise to other harmful disorders in body as with the use of allopathic medicines. All the products of Yamuna pharmacy are natural and do not cause any other side effects to other vital organs. Products are formulated under supervision of expert Ayurveda doctors and free from ill effects of harmful preservatives and chemicals.

Purpose of every human on earth is to live a healthy, comfortable and disease free life. So it is very important to know about the reason for healthy and happier life. Ayurveda is one simple and holistic approach to live a happy and disease free life. After reading this blog it depends on you that you want a safe treatment or you want to kill your life by using harmful medications daily minute by minute.

Management of Bad Cholesterol with Ayurveda

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is essential for various bodily functions, such as producing hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids. However, when cholesterol levels become imbalanced, particularly high levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or “bad” cholesterol, it can lead to the formation of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. In Ayurveda, cholesterol imbalance is often linked to Vata, Pitta, and Kapha dosha imbalances, with Kapha being the most significant contributor to high cholesterol levels.

Ayurvedic management of bad cholesterol focuses on balancing the doshas, improving digestion, eliminating toxins (Ama), and enhancing overall metabolic function. The approach is holistic, involving dietary changes, herbal remedies, lifestyle modifications, and mental wellness practices.

Understanding Cholesterol in Ayurveda

• Kapha Dosha: Kapha is responsible for the structural and lubricating functions in the body, including fat metabolism. When Kapha is out of balance, there is an accumulation of excess fat, which can lead to high levels of cholesterol.

• Ama (toxins): In Ayurveda, Ama is the product of improperly digested food, and it can accumulate in the tissues, including the arteries. Ama is a major contributor to plaque formation in the arteries, leading to high cholesterol.

• Vata and Pitta: Imbalances in Vata and Pitta can also contribute to poor circulation, stress, and digestive issues, all of which can exacerbate cholesterol problems.

Ayurvedic Approaches to Managing Bad Cholesterol

1. Diet for Lowering Bad Cholesterol

In Ayurveda, diet plays a crucial role in balancing the doshas and promoting healthy cholesterol levels. A Kapha-pacifying and Pitta-balancing diet is typically recommended to reduce bad cholesterol.

• Increase Fiber Intake: Foods rich in fiber such as oats, barley, legumes, apples, and carrots help reduce LDL cholesterol by binding to cholesterol and facilitating its elimination from the body.

• Healthy Fats: Incorporate healthy fats like ghee (clarified butter), olive oil, flaxseeds, walnuts, and avocados. These fats help nourish the body without contributing to plaque formation in the arteries.

• Anti-inflammatory Spices: Spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, coriander, and cumin are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce cholesterol levels by improving circulation and enhancing digestion.

• Avoid Processed and Fried Foods: Minimize the intake of processed foods, fried foods, and trans fats. These foods increase Kapha and promote the accumulation of cholesterol.

• Sour and Astringent Foods: Sour and astringent foods like lemon, pomegranate, apple cider vinegar, and cranberries are effective in reducing Ama and clearing excess cholesterol from the body.

• Reduce Sugars and Refined Carbs: Limit the consumption of sugary foods, refined grains, and sweets, which can elevate triglyceride levels and worsen cholesterol imbalances.

• Water: Drink plenty of warm water throughout the day to support digestion and flush out toxins from the body.

2. Ayurvedic Herbs for Managing Cholesterol

Several herbs are used in Ayurveda to reduce bad cholesterol, support heart health, and promote overall well-being.

• Triphala: A well-known Ayurvedic formulation consisting of Amla (Indian gooseberry), Haritaki, and Bibhitaki, Triphala is a powerful detoxifier that cleanses the body of Ama (toxins), supports digestion, and helps balance cholesterol levels.

• Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna): Arjuna is a heart tonic that supports the cardiovascular system. It is widely used in Ayurveda for improving circulation and reducing cholesterol levels, especially LDL. Arjuna is considered to strengthen the heart, lower blood pressure, and reduce plaque buildup in arteries.

• Guggulu (Commiphora wightii): Guggulu is one of the most effective herbs for reducing bad cholesterol. It is used in the form of Guggulu resin or as a powder to help lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Guggulu helps to burn fat and support overall metabolic health.

• Garlic (Allium sativum): Garlic has been used for centuries in Ayurveda for its ability to lower LDL cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and improve circulation. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps manage stress and inflammation, both of which contribute to high cholesterol. It also helps balance Vata and Kapha, leading to improved circulation and fat metabolism.

• Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): Fenugreek seeds help lower cholesterol and improve digestion. They also reduce the absorption of dietary fat and support the healthy functioning of the liver, which is key in cholesterol metabolism.

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa): The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help prevent the oxidative damage that leads to plaque formation and clogged arteries.

• Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): Cinnamon is a potent herb for reducing cholesterol levels. It helps improve insulin sensitivity, reduce LDL cholesterol, and improve circulation, promoting cardiovascular health.

3. Detoxification (Panchakarma)

Panchakarma is a highly effective Ayurvedic detoxification process that helps eliminate Ama (toxins) from the body and restore the balance of the doshas. Certain Panchakarma procedures that may help manage cholesterol levels include:

• Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Regular abhyanga helps to improve circulation, reduce Kapha, and eliminate Ama through the skin.

• Swedana (Steam Therapy): This therapy promotes sweating, which helps eliminate toxins and reduces excess fat from the body.

• Virechana (Purgation): This process eliminates Ama from the digestive tract and helps balance cholesterol by improving digestion and metabolism.

• Basti (Medicated Enemas): Basti helps to cleanse the colon, improve digestion, and balance the doshas, thereby helping to regulate cholesterol levels.

4. Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to dietary and herbal treatments, Ayurveda emphasizes several lifestyle practices that can help manage cholesterol levels:

• Exercise: Regular physical activity is essential for lowering cholesterol, improving heart health, and balancing Kapha. Activities like yoga, walking, cycling, or swimming can enhance circulation, boost metabolism, and reduce cholesterol levels.

• Stress Management: Chronic stress is a major contributor to elevated cholesterol and heart disease. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress, balance the nervous system, and prevent cholesterol imbalances.

• Adequate Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Ensure that you get 7–8 hours of restful sleep each night to help the body recover, detoxify, and regulate metabolism.

• Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Ayurveda recommends avoiding or limiting these habits.

5. Ayurvedic Formulations for Cholesterol Management

Ayurvedic formulations like Kanchanar Guggulu, Triphala, Arjuna Churna, and Guggulu can be taken in the form of powders, tablets, or capsules to help lower LDL cholesterol, improve liver function, and promote overall cardiovascular health.

6. Regular Monitoring

While Ayurveda offers natural remedies for managing bad cholesterol, it is important to monitor your cholesterol levels regularly through medical tests. Regular check-ups will help you understand how well the Ayurvedic remedies are working and allow you to make adjustments as needed.

Conclusion

In Ayurveda, the management of bad cholesterol is a holistic approach that addresses both internal and external factors contributing to the imbalance. The key to success lies in balancing the doshas, improving digestion, reducing Ama, using herbal remedies, and following a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle. By incorporating Ayurvedic principles and remedies, individuals can effectively manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease, while enhancing overall well-being.

As always, it’s important to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before starting any new treatment plan.