Salt In Diet: Implications for Health from an Ayurvedic Perspective

Hypertension has emerged as one of the most prevalent lifestyle-related disorders, affecting nearly one-fifth of the adult population, and according to the World Health Organization, elevated blood pressure is observed in approximately 23.1% of men and 22.6% of women above 25 years of age in India. Rapid urbanization, sedentary habits, and unhealthy dietary practices significantly contribute to its increasing prevalence, while excessive salt intake, alcohol consumption, and smoking further accelerate disease progression. From an Ayurvedic perspective, the causative factors of hypertension are classified into Aharaja Nidana, Viharaja Nidana, and Manasika Nidana, which lead to the derangement of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Doshas. Ayurvedic management is guided by the concept of Samprapti and focuses on addressing all etiological components simultaneously through regulation of Ahara, Vihara, and appropriate Aushadha. Adherence to Pathya-Apathya principles, along with dietary and lifestyle modifications, plays a crucial role in disease control, while therapeutic approaches include Shamana Chikitsa for dosha pacification and Shodhana Chikitsa for the elimination of accumulated toxins. Classical Ayurvedic literature highlights the use of formulations such as Sarpagandha Churna and Ashwagandha Churna in the management of hypertension, along with bio-purification procedures like Basti, Virechana Karma, and Shirodhara to restore physiological balance and promote systemic detoxification.