It is unlikely that you have consulted an Ayurvedic practitioner and come away without hearing about arjuna tea for supporting heart health and healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels already within the normal range. The tea uses for a key ingredient- the bark of the arjuna plant or Terminalia arjuna, known as the ‘guardian of the heart’ for a very good reason. All the ancient classical Ayurvedic texts or Samhitas including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtang Hridyam talk gloriously about its traditional use in supporting the heart. Vagabhatta, the prolific healer, physician, propounder, and author of seminal works in Ayurveda (Ashtangahridyasamhita and Ashtangasangraha) who lived in the sixth century was the first to mention the use of the bark of this Indo-sub Himalayan plant for supporting the heart. Although modern science is yet to study the applications and benefits of this time-honored herb in its entirety, the bark decoction from the arjuna plant has been used for centuries, based on Ayurvedic recommendations, to support cardiovascular health.
Terminalia Arjuna: Benefits
Systematic reviews, clinical and experimental studies, and meta-analyses done in the last decade point to the following benefits of the arjuna plant- the arjuna supplements in the form of tonic, tablets, or powder have been studied as
- supportive of healthy heart muscle function;
- antioxidant-rich;
- supportive of healthy cholesterol levels already within the normal range; and
- supportive of healthy blood vessels and circulation.
The Arjuna Tablets can be taken for three months as part of a daily heart-wellness routine.
1. The gifted bark of the arjuna plant
The bark is traditionally known as an astringent; supports a healthy inflammatory response; supports respiratory wellness; is a time-honored heart tonic; supports healthy digestion and urinary function; supports healthy glucose metabolism already within the normal range; and supports healthy liver function.
2. Ancient usage
While great ayurvedic physician Chakradatta, who lived millennia, recommended the use of ajruna bark as a decoction to be had with milk or clarified butter, other healers of the time advised use of the bark powder mixed in water for inhalation and for oral care. The juices from the leaf were also used in traditional preparations. Chewing the bark was also a traditional aid for digestive comfort among the ancient people.
3. Benefits for your heart muscles and blood flow
Research suggests arjuna bark has important diuretic (improves urine release); inotropic (strengthen the force of your heartbeat) and chronotropic (to do with heart rate and rhythm) properties. In a particular study by Langendorff, the aqueous bark extract showed an increase in coronary flow. In other studies, aqueous extracts have been studied for their role in supporting blood pressure levels already within the normal range.
4. Antioxidant action
The phytoconstituents present in various parts of the arjuna plant include triterpenoids, β-sitosterol, flavonoids, and glycosides. Recent studies suggest that triterpenoids found in arjuna extracts boost antioxidant defense and support heart health. The flavonoids present in T. arjuna help regulate cellular activity and fights off rogue free radicals to reduce oxidative stress. The antioxidant activity of arjuna’s phytoconstituents has also been studied in laboratory settings.
5. Lowers lipids that increase the risk of heart problems
Experiments suggest the arjuna bark powder or extract may support healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels already within the normal range.
6. Anti-ischemic effect
In a pioneering study, arjuna bark was studied for its effects on heart health and on cortisol and cholesterol levels. In another study, 500 mg of T arjuna bark powder was given twice every day, and participants showed improvement in exercise tolerance.
7. Dealing with chest pain (angina)
Recommended since ancient times as a heart tonic, arjuna continues to attract research interest for its role in supporting cardiovascular health. If you have a heart condition or take heart medication, consult your healthcare provider before using arjuna.
8. Congestive heart failure and hypertension
Small studies have also explored arjuna bark powder in people with heart conditions. Arjuna is not a treatment for any heart condition or high blood pressure; always follow the advice of your physician.
Published by Ruchira Roy
This content on the Sri Sri Tattva blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have Any links to third party websites is provided as a convenience only and the Sri Sri Tattva Blog is not responsible for their content.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.