A New Dimension To The Classification of Ayurvedokta Hridya Dravyas And Their Possible Mode Of Action

Abstract

The death due to ischemic heart disease is increasing in Indian population at an alarming rate and accounts for around 15-20% of all deaths in India. Similarly obesity, atherosclerosis and hypertension is also on the alarming rise. The faulty dietary habit with high intake of oily, fatty, carbohydrate rich food is one of the major reason for hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, hypertension and coronary artery disease. Ayurveda have well established doctrine of dietary ethics and regimen. Ayurveda had described the various heart pleasant and heart beneficial (Hridya) food items such as vegetables, fruits, flowers and drugs. But, Ayurvedokta “Hridya†dravyas are not classified into specific categories in classical texts depending upon their mode of action. Hence, needs to be classified and their mode of action with respect to their beneficial effect on heart also needs to be established. As per Ayurveda, heart is also a seat of mind and acts as independent brain to carry out certain immediate responses. In the result it is found that Ayurvedokta “Hridya†dravyas can be broadly classified into Kapha-har Hridya dravyas  and Kapha-kar Hridya dravyas. These Hridya dravyas exert their heart pleasing action by various ways. For e.g. Hridya flower exert action by its pleasing fragrance and mood elevation. Hridya fruits exert their action by taste and vagal stimulation.  It is concluded that Kapha-har Hridya dravyas are having beneficial effect on heart and are useful in controlling obesity, atherosclerosis and hypertension and thereby preventing coronary artery disease. The Kapha-kar Hridya dravyas are rich in carbohydrates and beneficial in improving the nutritional status of the body.