High blood pressure is one of the most common health concerns in our society. In fact, heart attack and stroke – the most likely outcomes –  are the two leading causes of death, ahead of cancer. In spite of the vast amount of medication available the epidemic continues to grow.

There are no fewer than eight different classes of drug commonly prescribed for hypertension, and in most cases their users can expect to remain on them throughout their lives. Side effects are common, often starting with fatigue, faintness, headaches, nausea, giddiness and weight gain. After a time specific organs and systems can be affected, for example the eyes, the facial muscles, the arteries, and even the mind.  The condition of the blood can cause hot flushes, mood changes and anger. Still later there can be much more serious effects due to the hardening of the arteries, such as heart problems, stroke, thrombosis or paralysis, as well as liver and kidney failure, particularly when the drug has been used over a long period. In fact, two types – beta-blockers and diuretics –  have even been associated with a greater risk of heart disease, and a further connection has been made with birth defects. A study by the British Medical Association 10 years ago found that 97% of people taking drugs for hypertension had suffered significant side-effects.

The purpose of this article is not to discourage anybody from taking their prescription medicines, in fact sudden withdrawal can have very serious consequences. It simply sets out to highlight the fact that the underlying causes of high blood pressure are not generally being addressed. The drugs work by widening the blood vessels, or by having an impact on  hormone production or on nervous system function, or sometimes by acting as diuretics. However, their effect wears off in a number of hours and the body is no longer able to maintain equilibrium, so the dosage needs to be repeated constantly, or frequently further medication is introduced, particularly as the patient’s condition deteriorates and more organs and systems begin to be involved.

High blood pressure is often regarded as an unfortunate part of the aging process, but there are many traditional cultures in which the condition is rarely seen. Certainly as our diets are increasingly composed of highly processed items the problem is becoming more commonplace. One of the most likely outcomes of ignoring diet is the onset of diabetes.

Ayurveda’s approach to the treatment of high blood pressure is, as always, multi-faceted and individual dietary considerations are of prime importance. Frequently it is found that high blood pressure sufferers are pursuing a diet high in meats but low in vegetables. Personalised dietary advice is given based on your body type (dosha).

Further advice based on your individual constitution involves changes in lifestyle. Some simple, but effective tips may be given, for example drinking more water in the mornings. This has the additional benefit of being good for the kidneys. A personalised exercise regime to improve flexibility is also very important, in particular exercises involving bending. A 20 minute daily yoga regime, involving movements that utilise different angles, is the most effective form of exercise to address flexibility. Meditation is yet another Ayurvedic tool that can have a surprisingly effect in lowering blood pressure. A scientific statement from the American Heart Association was published in April this year, confirming the practice of meditation was associated with significantly reduced rates of death, heart attack and stroke.

Ayurveda also has some very effective herbal solutions. Haritaki, sometimes referred to as the mother of herbs, is excellent for flexibility.

In summary, the Ayurvedic advice would be to act before the situation worsens if you are aware of a blood pressure problem. If the causes, dietary or otherwise, are not dealt with the situation will only deteriorate. If you are already taking blood pressure drugs it is never too late to book an Ayurvedic consultation so that you can start on a program which addresses the real causes. It should then be possible, as your overall state of health improves, to work with your doctor in reducing your medication.