Well-being Q&A: Ayurvedic remedies

Recently, my 72-year-old father who is a diabetic, had a minor paralytic attack which affected his right hand and right foot. He is taking medication and having physiotherapy. Are there any ayurvedic oils that could help his recovery?
Manish by email

A person with diabetes is at higher risk than others of strokes and other cardiovascular diseases. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot (ischemic stroke) or bursts (haemorrhagic stroke). When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs and it starts to die. Following emergency treatment, stroke care focuses on regaining strength and recovering as much function as possible to return to independent living. Ayurveda offers some excellent rehabilitation therapies for the management of stroke alongside anti-vata internal medications. You may use Mahamasha Thailam or Maha Narayana Thailam for external application. You may also use simple sesame oil heated with rock salt and/or camphor. There are a few oil therapies that could help him. Please consult an ayurvedic doctor.

My husband is 33 years old, and his blood pressure (BP) reading is 139/90. He has been advised to take medication for BP by his doctor. Does ayurveda have any remedies to reduce BP?
S.,S by email

For most adults, there's no identifiable cause of high blood pressure (primary/essential hypertension.) Some people have secondary high blood pressure caused by an underlying condition (eg kidney problems, certain medications.) Blood pressure measurements fall into four general categories. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg and systolic pressure ranges from 120 to 139 mmHg, Diastolic pressure ranges from 80 to 89 mmHg and is called prehypertension. Systolic pressure ranging from 140 to 159 mmHg or diastolic pressure ranging from 90 to 99 mmHg is Stage 1 hypertension. In Stage 2 hypertension systolic pressure goes higher than 160 mmHg or diastolic pressure is 100 mmHg or higher.

Diet and exercise, particularly yoga and pranayama, are the best methods to lower blood pressure. Eat fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and low-fat dairy foods. Eat less saturated fat and total fat. Consider supplements such as cod liver oil, calcium, garlic and cocoa. If your husband is overweight, losing even two to three kilograms can lower blood pressure; ensure he does some physical exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Decrease the salt in his diet, if a smoker he should give up and also reduce stress as much as possible.

Consult an ayurvedic doctor for suitable medication.

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