We celebrate World Heart Day every year on September 29 by conducting Seminars and talks, publishing articles and news items, conducting camps, etc. Its sole purpose is to raise awareness about the rising concerns of heart health and cardiovascular diseases and ways to prevent and treat the same. This year’s theme is ‘Use Heart for Every Heart’
Ischemic heart disease (IHD) or Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death around the globe. Other conditions, such as stroke, COPD, lower respiratory infections, and respiratory cancers, also account for a significant portion of deaths each year.
But if we delve into causes, high Blood Pressure, tops the list. Not only it causes various diseases but is also responsible for maintaining or aggravating many. In 21st Century,the most important reasons for rise of blood pressure or CAD are narrowing of arteries mainly due to disturbed lipid metabolism, uncontrolled blood sugar, being overweight etc. Persistent family history of CAD, especially on both maternal and paternal side, is a strong indicator for heart trouble. Smoking more than 4 cigarettes per day also causes the heart to function erratically.
Homeopathic medicines such as Nicotinum, Tabacum, Caladium, Ignatia, Nux vomica, Lobelia, Plantago, Euphorbium etc help a lot to quit smoking. Therefore all those having addiction and looking forward to quit, should definitely seek appointment with a Homeopath and safeguard their hearts.
There are numerous Homeopathic Medicines to correct disturbances in lipid metabolism and keeping blood vessels, clog free. Crategus, Cholesterinum, Guatteria gaumeri, Rosmarinus Officinalis, Fel tauri, Allium sativum, Chelidonium greatly help along with Constitutional Homeopathic medicines.
Rauwolfia, Strontia, Baryta mur, Crategus, Kali phos, Ignatia, Veratrum viride, Natrum mur, Lachesis, Belladonna, Glonione etc are very useful to control blood pressure, especially in early stage of disease or hypertension commencing in young age.
Before taking any over the counter (OTC) medication or any medicines with side effects, Homeopathic medicines should be taken by consulting a Registered Homeopathic Consultant.
Apart from treatment, one must understand that without dietary management, exercise and self hypnosis or meditation, World Heart Day goals cannot be achieved. Home made Desi Ghee, Olive oil and Rice bran oil are best substitutes to traditional oils and fats. Besides deep fried items such as pakoras, samosas, puris etc are best avoided.
Consumption of Red meat should either be avoided after 40, or taken in meager quantity, only occasionally. White meats, vegetables, lentils when cooked excessively or with strong spices, denature proteins and blanch out minerals. Therefore one can eat healthy only when food is cooked healthy. An ideal diet should have balance of proteins, carbs, fats, minerals etc.
Yoga, Cardio, Strength-based exercise, brisk or normal walk and keeping a count on step counter on phone, helps a lot. But regular gymming should always be under supervision of able instructors. This not only helps to reduce weight but keeps body and mind in sync.
Pranayam, Breathing exercises, self hypnosis, relaxation audios, motivational speeches or writings, spiritual retreats etc are necessary for each one of us as we are constantly surrounded by various vibrations, frequencies and electromagnetic radiations from everywhere. Everyday life has its own grind. But just taking out 10 minutes for mental health can work wonders in maintaining health.
Note: This article is a guest post by Dr. Lubna Kamal, Asstt Professor (State JLN Homeopathic Medical College)