Ayurveda is an ancient medicine system that originated in India over 6,000 years ago emphasizes a holistic approach to health. It focuses on balancing the body, mind, and spirit to prevent and treat illness. 

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें।

Introduction to Ayurveda and Cholesterol Levels

In Ayurveda, health is viewed through the lens of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each person has a unique balance of these doshas, and maintaining this balance is key to health. It emphasizes balance in the body, mind, and spirit through diet, herbal treatments, lifestyle practices, and therapies. 

The word Ayurveda means “the science of life” and comes from the Sanskrit terms Ayu meaning ‘life’ and Veda meaning ‘knowing’. Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest systems of medicine; it was first recorded in the Vedas, it defines health as state of equilibrium of the four dimensions Sharira (the physical body), Indriyas (the senses), Satva (the mind) and Atma (the soul). The times are such that every other individual suffers from some health risks and maintaining optimal health can be challenging. 

High Cholesterol levels are a common concern and a risk factor for heart disease. While the modern medicine system offers various treatments many people are turning to traditional practices for an effective and reliable approach to health.

Cholesterol is a certain kind of waxy-fat-like substance which is vital for cell walls, other hormones. Cholesterol is perceived as something dangerous but the truth is our body could not function without it. Cholesterol is produced by your liver in the body and it plays a crucial role in performing important functions such as digestion and production of stress-relieving hormones and sex hormones. High levels of cholesterol makes you an easy target for heart-related issues as it interrupts the functioning of the heart.

Why does Cholesterol rise as per Ayurveda?

According to Ayurveda, cholesterol should be observed through its principles which emphasize the balance and imbalance of bodily energies and systems. 

 In Ayurveda, cholesterol elevation is understood through the lens of its unique principles, which emphasize the balance and imbalance of bodily energies and systems. Here’s how Ayurveda explains rising cholesterol levels and how it could be controlled:

•  Dosha Imbalance- Ayurveda is based on the concept of three primary doshas- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha that represent different combinations of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, space). Each dosha governs various physiological and psychological functions.
• Kapha Dosha- Cholesterol imbalances are often associated with an excess of Kapha dosha. Kapha is characterized by qualities such as sluggishness and stickiness. When Kapha is elevated it leads to the accumulation of substances in the body, including cholesterol. 
• Ama Formation- Ama is a toxic, metabolic byproduct that Ayurveda believes results from improper digestion (or Agni—the digestive fire). When Agni is weak, the body fails to properly digest food, leading to the formation of Ama. Ama can circulate through the body, clogging channels and tissues, which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels.
• Emotional and Mental Health- Ayurveda also considers the impact of emotional and mental states on physical health. Stress, anxiety, and emotional stress can disturb the balance of doshas and Agni. Chronic stress may lead to unhealthy eating habits and which can contribute to high cholesterol.

Ayurveda concludes that rising cholesterol is often attributed to an imbalance in the Kapha dosha, improper digestion leading to Ama formation, and lifestyle factors such as poor diet and inactive routine. Emotional stress can also play a role in aggravating these conditions. Ayurveda emphasizes a holistic approach to restoring balance through diet, lifestyle changes, and herbal remedies to manage and lower cholesterol effectively.

Dietary Tips to Lower Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fat in the blood that the body needs to build cells and produce hormones, but having too much of it can be harmful. There is a lot that can be done to maintain a balanced level of cholesterol starting with regular exercise and a healthy diet-

• Adapt to Whole Grains-  Incorporating whole grains like oats, barley, and brown rice into your diet can help manage cholesterol levels. These grains are high in fiber, which helps reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and promote heart health.
• Fruits and Vegetables- Fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables are staples in Ayurvedic diets. They provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that support cardiovascular health. Apples, citrus fruits, and leafy greens are full of benefits.
• Go for Healthy Fats- Eat unsaturated fats such as olive oil and ghee in moderation. Ghee is highly valued in Ayurveda for its ability to nourish the body and support digestion.
• Legumes- Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent sources of fiber and protein. They help manage cholesterol levels and support overall heart health.

Ayurvedic Herbs to Control High Cholesterol

Ayurveda has been in existence to cure diseases for a long time. Its herbs provide a holistic solution to a problem. Home remedies and Ayurvedic medicine for cholesterol may help maintain normal cholesterol levels. Here are some tips and remedies that can be effective:

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive and balanced approach to manage cholesterol through diet, herbal remedies, and lifestyle practices. To balance the respective dosha and save yourself from severe health complications, approach from an Ayurvedic perspective is the most advisable. The Ayurvedic way will work to eradicate the root cause of the disease siting no side effects and also helping with the irreversibility of the disease.  

READ MORE: CHOLESTEROL AND IT'S IMPACT ON WOMEN