How Ayurveda Helps in Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Introduction
Heart is one of the vital organs in the body and it’s true that we cannot live a healthy life without its proper functioning. Heart is a very important seat for Vata, Pitta, Kapha doshas (physical energies) and Ojus (immunity). It plays a crucial role in number of internal bodily channels. Our diet and life style habits can vitiate these physical energies and can interfere with immune system sometimes, resulting in heart disorders. Well, Herbal remedies for dilated cardiomyopathy are very safe to use along with other ongoing treatments. We’ll discuss in detail about them below.
DCM is a disease of the heart muscles starting in the left ventricle (heart’s main pumping chamber) which stretches and dilates abnormally so it cannot pump blood properly. The inner part of the chamber enlarges, spreading the problem to the right ventricle and then to the atria. This prevents the heart from relaxing and filling with blood as it should happen normally. This disorder can lead to irregular heartbeats, blood clots and even sudden death. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is known with other names also like Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy, Congestive Cardiomyopathy, Diabetic Cardiomyopathy, Idiopathic Cardiomyopathy etc.
Symptoms of DCM
Many people with DCM have no symptoms and lead a normal life. The symptoms progress with time and make heart functions worst.
- Shortness of breath when one is active or even lying down
- Fatigue and reduced ability to exercise or carry any activity in a normal way
- Swelling of the ankles, feet, legs, abdomen and veins in the neck
- Swelling of abdomen due to fluid buildup leading to weight gain
- Cough and congestion are other related symptoms due to fluid build up
- Murmurs or palpitation (unusual sounds when heart beats)
- Fainting or dizziness
Cause of DCM
It is caused due to several factors like
DCM is supposed to be an inherited disorder in most cases. The exact cause is not known is some cases (idiopathic).
Diagnosis of DCM
DCM is diagnosed by taking a complete medical history of the patient along with physical examination and blood works.
ECG, Chest X-rays, Echocardiogram, Exercise Stress Test, Cardiac Catheterization, CT scan, MRI scan are other tests are performed to confirm the condition.
A myocardial biopsy may be performed in some cases.
Ayurvedic Treatment of DCM
Treatment of DCM focuses on treating the cause of heart failure. It is done to improve cardiac function and reduce symptoms.
Planet Ayurveda offers an effective treatment for DCM in the form of DCM Care Pack which includes excellent natural/herbal products:
- Total Heart Support Capsules
- Cap Arjuna
- Cap Punarnava
- Punarnava Mandur
- Arjun Tea
Let’s Discuss in Detail About Them –
1. Total Heart Support
As the name suggests, Total heart support capsules aim at supporting a healthy heart. The product is prepared using standardized extracts of herbs like Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis). These herbs are known to relax the nerves, arteries and keep the blood pressure under control. This is also useful in post heart attack cases. Total heart support makes a complete solution for DCM, when taken on regular basis, as advised by the physician.
The recommended dosage of Total Heart Support Capsules is 2 capsules twice daily with plain water.
2. Cap Arjuna
This wonderful herbal formulation is prepared from the extract of Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) bark. Arjuna acts as a cardiac toner and heart muscles strengthener. A heart protector that is rich in Co-enzyme Q10 and antioxidants. This product is rich in calcium, copper, magnesium and zinc that are very important minerals for the proper functioning of the heart.
The recommended dosage for Arjuna Capsules in DCM is 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.
3. Cap Punarnava
Planet Ayurveda’s Punarnava Capsules contain the standardized extract of the herb Boerhavia diffusa. It is an effective herb known for heart as it maintains healthy heart functions. This herb is also known to maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol level in the body.
The recommended dosage of Punarnava Capsules is 2 capsules twice daily with plain water.
4. Punarnava Mandur
Punranava Mandur of Planet Ayurveda is prepared from combination of different herbs such as Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piperlongum), Maricha (Piper nigrum), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Haridra (Curcuma longa), Mandoor Bhasma (Ferric oxide) etc. These herbs are very helpful in maintaining heart health. These tablets are helpful in balancing Pitta and Kapha dosha. They are helpful in detoxifying the blood, removes impurities and toxins and also improve blood circulation.
The recommended dosage of Punarnava Mandur Tablets is 2 tablets thrice daily with plain water after meals.
5. Arjun Tea
A wonderful blend of herbs that help to remove toxins from the body and open the channels. Arjuna along with few other herbs like Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), Pipal Tvak (Ficus religiosa bark), Dalchini (Cinnamomum verum)and Choti Elaichi (Elettaria caradomum) help to support a healthy heart and strengthen heart muscles. It is also very effective in supporting healthy blood vessels and circulatory system. The tea provides nutrition to heart as it is rich in natural Co Enzyme Q10. The regular use of Arjuna tea helps in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Unlike other teas, it is caffeine free.
The recommended dosage for Arjuna Tea is two cups daily.
How to use – Boil 1 teaspoon full of Arjuna tea in 3 cups of water, until 1 cup remains. Filterand drink sip by sip. For better results, do not add milk. Have this, as an herbal tea or decoction.
Diet and Life Style Changes
- It is strongly advised for the patients to quit smoking, avoid alcohol or other drugs harmful for heart. One needs to be on a healthy diet which is low in sodium and balanced in nutrients required.
- Avoid dairy products as they can cause channels obstructions.
- Avoid packed and sour foods as they can hinder with herb’s proper response.
- Try to maintain a healthy weight and have enough sleep. Exercise strengthens the heart and cardiovascular system which reduces heart disease risk factors. It also improves
the blood circulation and helps the body to use oxygen better. Doing Meditation and Yoga to relieve stress also help in speedy recovery.
