Impact of Ayurveda-based Ischemia Reversal Program on Reduction of Resting Myocardial Ischemia Studied with Speckle-Tracking Global Longitudinal Strain Imaging

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease, commonly seen on a rise globally, is especially prevalent in the developing countries, whose numerous causes are improper diet and lifestyle. Ayurveda, the ancient medical practice, offers antidotes to major diseases. Its detoxification process, Panchakarma, boosts immunity, reduces stress, eliminates toxins from the body, etc., This study was conducted to establish the role of Ayurveda-based ischemia reversal program (IRP) in minimizing ischemic heart disease (IHD). Materials and Methods: A retrospective clinical study was conducted in cardiac hospital on patients, having a clinical evidence of IHD. During the 7-day study period, patients received, 14 IRP Panchakarma sessions comprising, Snehana, Svedana, and Gokshur Haridra Amalki Basti. In addition, the patients were given a calorie-controlled diet. The primary endpoint was change in the global longitudinal strain score as compared to baseline and secondary endpoint was reduced dependency on modern medicine with respect to weight, body mass index (BMI), left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF), 6-min walk test, noninvasive cardiac output, and end diastolic volume. Results: Fifty-nine patients were involved in the study, belonging to 61.02 ± 11.47 years of age, with 74.58% being males. The primary endpoint, decreased from −10.26 ± 4.02, on day 1, to −10.99 ± 3.94, on day 7. Appreciable decrease was also observed for the abdominal girth, body weight, BMI, and dependency on modern medicines. Conclusion: This study revealed that IRP notably reduces heart disease, by influencing various parameters studied in this investigation. An increased EF, decreased LV mass, an improved 6-min walk test, decreased heart rate, normal systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and other parameters indicate an improvement in the existing disease of the heart.