Ayurvedic treatment for palpitations

In Ayurveda, palpitations are discussed under Hritspandana or Hriddrava, a disturbance of the heart region linked with Vata and Pitta. This page describes the traditional approach. It is an interpretive framework, evidence from good trials is limited, and it does not replace a heart check.

Traditional understanding

Stress, worry, grief, poor sleep, irregular meals, skipping food, excess tea or coffee and overexertion are said to aggravate Vata and Pitta and disturb the Hridaya (heart) and Manas (mind).

Approaches mentioned in texts

• Routine: regular meals, regular sleep and rest
• Calming practices: Pranayama, meditation and gentle yoga
• Diet: warm, light, nourishing food, with cooling foods for Pitta
• Therapies: Abhyanga (oil massage) and Shirodhara in some centres
• Herbs often mentioned: Arjuna, Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Jatamansi and Pushkarmool

What research says

Small studies of Arjuna bark in heart conditions and of Ashwagandha for stress suggest possible benefit. Study quality varies, and results are not enough to treat palpitations.

Safety

• Arjuna and other herbs can interact with heart medicines, blood pressure medicines and blood thinners
• Ashwagandha can affect thyroid levels. This matters because an overactive thyroid causes palpitations.
• Do not stop prescribed medicines
• Choose a registered practitioner and tell your doctor about all products

See a doctor if palpitations are new, frequent or come with chest pain, fainting or breathlessness. Get an ECG first.

Remember

Ayurveda may help with stress and routine, but a heart check should come first.