Critical review on Hrudaya (Heart) and Hrudroga (Cardiovascular disorders) and its Nidana (Causative factors)

Abstract

Introduction: The Ayurvedic word Hrudya can be corelated with Heart in modern science on the basis of its vital functions, Also, according to some Acharyas, Ayurvedic Hrudya is a broader term which comprises functions of both heart and brain. Various terms like Hridyata, Hridroga, Hridayamaya and Hridaya Sula are mentioned in Ayurveda in accordance to Cardiovascular Disease. Discussion: Ayurvedic concept of Hridroga is quite primitive as compared to that of western system of medicine and it does not extend beyond ischemic heart disease and to some extent congestive Heart Failure. Five type of Hridrogas have been described in Ayurveda, out of which the description of Vatika Hridroga is clearly in accordance with that of Ischemic Heart Disease, combined with symptomatology of Vatika Sotha and Swasa give a vague picture of congestive Heart Failure. Conclusion: Agnimandya, Vata Prakopa (vitiation of Vata Dosha) and Dhatu Kshaya are the three mechanism involved in Samprapti of all the Hrudya Rogas.