Integrative Cardiology: Where Can Ayurveda Contribute?

Dr M Vijayakumar,Clinical Professor,Adult Cardiology,Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences,Kochi,Kerala and Dr P Ram Manohar, Research Director, Amrita Centre for Advanced Research in Ayurveda,Amrita School of Ayurveda, Kollam,Kerala,share insights on blending traditional medicine and modern science to develop a holistic approach for cardiovascular healthcare

There is no question about the miraculous impact of advanced medical knowledge in saving millions of human lives. Specially so, when it comes to diseases that afflict a vital organ like the heart, which can create life and death situations demanding complex interventions. New pharmaceutical drugs, bypass surgery, angioplasty, heart transplantation, pacemakers and the list is endless when it comes to discussing about the path breaking developments that have revolutionised medical interventions in the field of cardiology.

Cardiology has become increasingly technology intensive and while these advances are life saving in many situations, there is growing concern that such interventions are sometimes being used out of context and become the cause of economic burden to the public.

Worldwide, there is growing dissatisfaction with conventional treatments as they can at times be not effective or cause side effects or be prohibitively expensive. People are searching for less invasive, cost effective and safer solutions where it is warranted. While the advancements in modern cardiology cannot be undermined in any way, complementing it with alternative approaches can perhaps reduce drug dependence, minimise surgical procedures and improve quality of life where it is reasonably possible to do so.

In many parts of the first world, Integrative Cardiology has emerged as a clinical discipline that attempts to integrate the best of both worlds in the bid to provide the best care for the patient.

Many cardiologists are beginning to consider alternatives to conventional treatment for management of a wide range of conditions including angina, arrhythmia and congestive heart failure. Apart from surgery and pharmaceutical drugs, Integrative Cardiologists are keen to prescribe diet and lifestyle modifications along with standard care.