Hypertension is a chronic condition characterised by persistently elevated arterial blood pressure and increased cardiovascular risk. In Ayurveda, Raktagata Vata may provide a traditional framework for discussing disorders involving Vata and Rakta, although it is not an exact diagnostic equivalent of modern hypertension. Dietary regulation is an important component of both preventive and supportive management.
Traditional rationale and proposed role
Ayurvedic dietary principles consider Ahara, Agni, Dosha and individual constitution when planning dietary interventions.
- Lasuna (Allium sativum): Garlic is traditionally valued for its Vatahara properties and is used in dietary and therapeutic preparations. Its contemporary relevance includes investigations of garlic preparations in blood pressure regulation.
- Kushmanda (Benincasa hispida): Ash gourd is traditionally described as a nourishing, cooling vegetable and is incorporated into dietary regimens. Its use may support a vegetable-rich eating pattern, although a specific antihypertensive effect has not been established clinically.
- Dhanyaka (Coriandrum sativum): Coriander is traditionally used as a culinary spice and in digestive preparations. It can contribute to flavouring meals while reducing reliance on excess salt, but its independent effect on blood pressure remains insufficiently established.
Clinical considerations and relevant clinical applications
- Lasuna: A meta-analysis of garlic supplementation reported reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure among hypertensive participants. However, the studies used different garlic preparations, and these findings cannot be directly extrapolated to ordinary dietary Lasuna.1
- Kushmanda and Dhanyaka: These ingredients can be incorporated into balanced meals as vegetables and seasonings. Their traditional dietary relevance should be distinguished from proven antihypertensive activity.
- Dietary pattern: A DASH-style eating pattern, emphasising vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low-fat dairy, together with sodium reduction, is supported by contemporary hypertension guidelines.2
- Individualisation: Dietary planning should account for kidney function, potassium status, comorbidities and concurrent antihypertensive medication.
Conclusion
Lasuna, Kushmanda and Dhanyaka offer distinct traditional dietary applications within an Ayurvedic approach to Raktagata Vata. Garlic has some clinical evidence from supplementation studies, whereas Kushmanda and Dhanyaka are better considered components of a balanced dietary pattern. Their use can complement, but not replace, established hypertension management.
References:
- Ried K, Frank OR, Stocks NP, Fakler P, Sullivan T. Effect of garlic on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Cardiovasc Disord. 2008;8:13. Published 2008 Jun 16. doi:10.1186/1471-2261-8-13. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2442048/
- American Heart Association. Top things to know: 2025 high blood pressure guideline. American Heart Association Professional Heart Daily. Accessed November 3, 2026. https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/2025-high-blood-pressure-guideline/top-things-to-know