Asian Journal of Cardiology Research

Effect of Specialised Ayurvedic Protocol in Stress-induced Hypertension: A Case Series

Suvarna Prashant Mhatre *

Madhavbaug Cardiac Clinic, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

Vidya Nanvatkar

Madhavbaug Cardiac Clinic, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

Prajakta Desai

Madhavbaug Cardiac Clinic, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

Nilesh Kulthe

Madhavbaug Cardiac Clinic, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

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Abstract

Background: Bhramari Pranayama (humming bee breath), involves inhalation through both nostrils, followed by exhalation mimicking the sound of a humming bee. This simplistic yogic practice is often recommended for patients suffering from hypertension. However, there is currently a dearth in anecdotal reports as well as robust clinical evidence documenting the effects of Bhramari Pranayama. Here described are two cases of stress-induced hypertension successfully treated with Bhramari Pranayama.

Case: Patient 1 was a 42-year-old male with a history of diabetes and hypertension. His chief complaints were burning micturition and neck pain for a 2-year duration. He was diagnosed with stress-induced hypertension. Patient 2 was a 44-year-old male with history of hypertension and also a history of grade 1 fatty liver. His chief complaints were chest pain on sleeping position, disturbed sleep, and palpitations. He too was diagnosed with stress-induced hypertension. Both patients were advised combination therapy that consisted of Panchakarma hypertension therapy (Snehana, Swedana and Shirodhara), oral medication (Artyl, Serena, and Endoguard capsules) as well as Bhramari Panayama, a controlled breathing practice. Patient 1 had blood pressure measuring 142/108 mmHg at admission which significantly reduced to 124/80 mmHg after 150 days. Patient 2 had blood pressure measuring 116/87 mmHg which changed to 117/78 mmHg after 90 days.

Conclusion: Bhramari therapy was found to be effective in our patient by controlling systolic and diastolic blood pressure, thus highlighting its effect in relieving stress-induced derangements in blood pressure.

Keywords: Ayurveda, blood pressure, breathing, hypertension

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