Why Doctors Recommend the hs-CRP Test? Causes, Symptoms & Herbal Remedies for Heart Disease

Abstract

Heart diseases are rising worldwide, and most of the occurrence of heart condition is sudden, resulting in marked morbidity. What if we can have a prior view of the upcoming heart issues? In this regard, the High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test is a pivotal diagnostic tool in modern medicine, offering insights into systemic inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Elevated hs-CRP levels are closely linked to an increased likelihood of heart diseases, including myocardial infarction and stroke. This article delves into the importance of the hs-CRP test, explores its implications, and highlights how Ayurveda can play a complementary role in managing heart health.

Introduction

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is produced by the liver in response to inflammation. The hs-CRP test is a refined version that detects lower levels of CRP, making it a sensitive marker for chronic inflammation and a predictor of cardiovascular events. Elevated hs-CRP levels can indicate underlying issues even before symptoms manifest, emphasizing its role in preventive cardiology. So, it makes the test a well advanced measure to keep a check on the developing condition in the near future. Now let's have a look at causes behind the raised levels of hs-CRP. However, we shall discuss this in the context of heart conditions.

Causes of Elevated hs-CRP

Several factors can lead to increased hs-CRP levels:

• Chronic Infections : Persistent infections can trigger prolonged inflammatory responses.
• Heart conditions : Myocardial Infarction, Coronary Artery Disease, Atherosclerosis, Acute and Chronic Heart failure etc.
• Autoimmune Disorders : Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis elevate CRP levels.
• Obesity : Excess adipose tissue releases pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Smoking : Tobacco use induces systemic inflammation.

Signs and Symptoms Associated with High hs-CRP

While hs-CRP itself doesn't cause symptoms, elevated levels often correlate with:

• Fatigue
• Chest Discomfort
• Shortness of Breath
• General Malaise

Management Strategies

To manage elevated hs-CRP levels:

1. Lifestyle Modifications

• Regular Exercise : Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly.
• Smoking Cessation : Eliminate tobacco use to reduce inflammation.
• Stress Management : Incorporate mindfulness and relaxation techniques.

2. Medical Management

Required other confirmatory tests before starting any medicines.

• Statins
• Anti-inflammatory Medications

Ayurveda's Role in Heart Health

In Ayurveda, Hridya Roga refers to a broad spectrum of heart disease. Heart being a vital organ is considered to be one of the trividh marma, that when injured that could result in immediate death. However, there are other causative factors that lead to the buildup of certain toxins/cholesterol levels in the arteries that could impact the blood supply to the heart. In Ayurveda, there are a number of causes that can lead to heart diseases such as excessive exercise, intake of spicy food, excessive purgation and enema, stress, fear, panic, buildup of ama dosha (toxins), usage of emaciated food and injury. This causative factor can result in inflammation in the parts of the heart. That can increase the values of the hs CRP. Ayurveda has mentioned five types of hrid roga ie vata, pitta, kapha, tridosha and krimij. All the symptoms according to the dosha guna and krimij have pricking and sharp pain and itching in the chest. Vataja has tearing pain, pitaja manifests with excessive thirst, excessive temperature, burning sensation, fatigue, loss of consciousness, excessive sweating and dry mouth. Kaphaj hrid roga shows heaviness and rigidity in the chest and heart region, anorexia, and a sweet taste in the mouth. Tridoshaja hrid roga has all the symptoms of the vataja, pittaja and kaphaja types. However, prevention, that is nidana parivarjan in Ayurveda, is best to avoid the manifestation of heart diseases. Following are some of the remedies that can help people with heart conditions.

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes a holistic approach to health, focusing on balance and prevention. Below are some of the management protocols to prevent heart disease in wake of increased hs-CRP levels.

• Herbs that are effective in hridyaroga includes Arjuna, Pushkarmoola, Ashwagandha, and Turmeric are renowned for their cardioprotective properties.
• Dietary Guidelines: Emphasizing foods—fresh, light, and nourishing—to support heart function
• Lifestyle Practices: Incorporating Yoga, Pranayama, and Meditation to reduce stress and enhance cardiovascular health.
• Classical ayurvedic medicines include Hridrogahara kashyam, Pushkarahwadi kashyam, Punarnavadi taila, Haritakyadi ghrit, Pushkarmooladi churna, Trayushnadi ghrit, Pathyadi kalka, Drakshadya ghrita, Kasherukadi ghrita, Krishnadi churna, Arjunarisht etc

Herbal Remedies for Heart Disease by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a reputable Ayurveda brand dedicated to providing authentic Ayurvedic formulations. It has a number of formulations in the form of powders, syrups, capsules, tablets, medicated ghee, juices etc. All the products of the company are in accordance with those mentioned in the classical texts of Ayurveda. Moreover, Planet Ayurveda has been helping with the patients with chronic illnesses. It is also mentionable that the products are devoid of any harsh chemicals and additives. Planet Ayurveda is pleased to present its ‘Heart Care Pack’ for the patients suffering from Heart Diseases. Heart Care Pack is specifically designed to support heart health. The products in the pack do not only take care of the manifested disorder but also prevent the disease from expressing itself.

Heart Care Pack Components

1. Arjuna Capsules
2. Arjun Tea
3. Total Heart Support
4. Gotu Kola Capsules

Product Description

1. Arjuna Capsules

Planet Ayurveda’s Arjuna capsules contain arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) bark extract. Arjuna is a powerful Ayurvedic herb known for its cardioprotective properties. It strengthens the heart muscle, improves circulation, and helps maintain healthy blood pressure. Being rich in antioxidants and coenzyme Q10-like compounds, Arjuna reduces oxidative stress and supports heart function. It aids in lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels, helping to prevent plaque buildup in arteries. Arjuna also has mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects, easing cardiac workload. By balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas, it promotes emotional calm and reduces stress, both vital for heart health. Regular use of Arjuna supports overall cardiovascular strength and resilience naturally.

Dosage : One capsule twice daily with plain water, after meals.

2. Arjun Tea

Arjuna tea is a product of Planet Ayurveda, made from the bark of the arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) tree and is a natural remedy that supports heart health. It strengthens the cardiac muscles, improves blood circulation, and helps regulate blood pressure. The tea is rich in antioxidants, which protect the heart from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in blood vessels. Arjuna tea also helps lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and atherosclerosis. Its calming effect on the nervous system reduces stress, a major trigger for heart disease. Drinking Arjuna tea regularly promotes overall cardiovascular wellness in a gentle and natural manner.

Dosage : One cup daily.

3. Total Heart Support

Planet Ayurveda’s Total Heart Support Capsules are a potent blend of time-tested Ayurvedic herbs that help maintain a healthy and strong heart. These capsules contain Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), and Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), which together support cardiac function, improve circulation, and reduce stress on the heart. Arjuna strengthens heart muscles and manages cholesterol levels, while Ashwagandha reduces stress and supports a balanced blood pressure. Brahmi and Shankhpushpi calm the nervous system, helping to manage anxiety and emotional strain that can affect heart health. The formula works holistically to protect against hypertension, arrhythmia, and other heart conditions. Total Heart Support offers a natural, side-effect-free way to promote long-term cardiovascular wellness and resilience.

Dosage : Two capsules twice daily with plain water, after meals.

4. Gotu Kola Capsules

Planet Ayurveda’s Gotu Kola Capsules offer a natural way to support heart health by promoting healthy circulation, reducing stress, and protecting blood vessels. Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a renowned Ayurvedic herb that enhances blood flow, strengthens vein walls, and supports the integrity of capillaries and arteries. It is rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both major contributors to heart disease. Additionally, Gotu Kola calms the nervous system, helping to manage stress and anxiety, which negatively impact heart function. By improving microcirculation and supporting mental clarity, these capsules offer a holistic cardiovascular benefit.

Dosage : One capsule twice daily with plain water, after meals.

Conclusion

The hs-CRP test serves as a crucial marker in identifying hidden inflammation and assessing cardiovascular risk. While modern medicine offers effective interventions, integrating Ayurvedic principles provides a holistic approach to heart health. Planet Ayurveda's Heart Care Pack embodies this integration, offering natural solutions rooted in ancient wisdom. By embracing a balanced lifestyle, nourishing diet, and time-tested herbal remedies, one can journey towards optimal heart health and overall well-being.

Herbal Remedies for Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (PSVT) - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

PAROXYSMAL SUPRAVENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA

Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia may be defined as serious condition of repeated episodes of faster heart rate than normal heart rate caused by the electronic impulse above the heart ventricles. Basically it is a condition of abnormal type of heart rate. PSVT also affect the people with not any other heart related problems.

Perhaps this disorder can affect any age group but it is more common among adults under the age group of 60 years. Normal heart rate of every healthy person is between 60-100 beats per minute but in this disease heart rate raises to 100 beats per minute supported by palpitations and excessive sweating.

According to Ayurveda PSVT is correlated with Vata Dosha related disorder. Movements of heart and pulsation is controlled by Vata Dosha in our body. This disease can be treated by avoiding food that causes Vata Dosha and improving your lifestyle is the best treatment for this disorder according to Ayurveda principles. Patients with PSVT should avoid bitter, astringent and pungent foods. Avoid extra light and excessive dry foods. Carbonated drinks, alcohol, caffeine and heavy meals also contributes to cause this disorder. People suffering from PSVT should sleep and wake up at proper timing, avoid late night wake ups. Avoid over stress and excessive physical activities. Never try to supress your natural urges.

CAUSES

There is no major known cause for this heart related disorder. Psychological stress, lack of sleep and excessive physical activities may trigger this problem. Other factor that contribute to this problem may include-

• Excessive intake of alcohol and smoking
• Heart failure and other heart related problems
• Excessive Intake of caffeine
• Chronic lung disorders
• Certain medications for allergy and asthma
• Pregnancy and surgery
• Other health issues like Wolff Parkinson- white syndrome

SYMPTOMS

In some cases people suffering with Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia have no specific symptoms while in some other cases people feel various symptoms that may include-

• Palpitation
• Excessive sweating
• Severe chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Weakness and fatigue
• Dizziness
• Rapid pulse rate
• anxiety
• Syncope

PSVT is condition that leads to many other heart related ailments. Herbal supplements are very beneficial and safe treatment for this disorder. Planet Ayurveda provides you a very effective, safe and amazing herbal remedies in the form of Heart Care Pack. This pack contains Arjuna Capsules, Arjuna Tea and Total Heart Support Capsules that are 100% natural products for healthy heart. Natural herbs used in these herbal products helps to support healthy heart functions and activities.

HEART CARE PACK OF PLANET AYURVEDA CONSISTS OF

1. Arjuna Capsules
2. Arjuna Tea
3. Total Health Support

Heart Care Pack

1. Arjuna Capsules

Arjuna is the major herb, used to prepare this wonderful supplement for heart available at house of Planet Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda bark of terminalia arjuna is used to treat various heart disorders from 1000 years back. Severe chest pain, heart failure, heart burn, heart attack, hypertension and high cholesterol are the various heart conditions that are treated with this wonderful herb of Ayurveda. This herbal supplement helps to dilate blood vessels and reduce high blood pressure normally.  This herbal formulation is very effective and well known heart tonic. Arjuna is cardio-protective herb and helps to strengthen heart muscles and also beneficial for promoting overall health of cardiac system.

Dosage: 2 capsules two times a day after meals with normal water.

2. Arjun Tea

Arjuna, Punarnava, Pipaltwak, Dalchini and Chottielachi are the various miraculous herbs used to prepare this wonderful herbal supplement. Arjuna Tea is very effective herbal remedy for cholesterol, high blood pressure and other heart disorders. This herbal tea is free from caffeine and has no any side effects. Arjuone, Arjunolone, Gallic Acid and Egallic acid present in Arjuna bark is very useful for treating cardiac disorders. Punarnava means new again and, this herb used in this herbal supplement helps to renew and rejuvenate damaged cells in body. It also diuretic in nature that helps to reduce internal inflammation and edema. Punarnava helps to remove harmful toxins and helps to cleanse all the internal system. It helps to purify internal blood that helps to remove all the harmful radicals and toxins. Fibre, calcium and magnesium rich cinnamon helps to remove blockage and are very miraculous herb for heart problems. It also helps to improve the pumping capacity of heart, improve and strengthen the muscle of heart. It reduces high cholesterol in body and maintains healthy blood pressure level.

Method of Preparation: Put 2 cups of water in pan and add 1 teaspoonful of Arjuna Tea in the water. Boil the mixture and simmer it on low flame. Boil the mixture until it reduces to 1 cup only. Strain the prepared tea and drink tea without any sweetener for its better results.

Dosage: You can prepare this tea twice a day after two hours of meals.

3. Heart Support Capsules

Arjuna, Ashwagandha, Brahmi and Shankhpushpi are the various beneficial herbs which are used to prepare this wonderful herbal formulation of Planet Ayurveda. Bark of Arjuna works wonderfully to treat angina, tachycardia, high blood pressure and high cholesterol like conditions. Ashwagandha is very effective herb that helps to reduce internal swelling and to clear blockages. It helps to reduce high sugar and cholesterol level in body. Brahmi is also very beneficial herb for mental illness. It is good herb to remove blockage of blood vessels and arteries. Beside this, Brahmi is very effective herb for treating various mental problems like memory loss, stress, anxiety, epilepsy and various other mental disorders. Shankhpushpi possesses very good cooling and soothing effects that works wonderfully on three dosha's of body. It helps to improve mind's ability and good for reducing high blood pressure. This herbal supplement is a great natural and herbal remedy for cardiac disorders and it maintains natural health of heart.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice a day with plain water after meals.

All the above mentioned herbal remedies for heart are prepared by using natural, pure and vegetarian herbs. These herbal supplements support healthy heart and regulate circulatory system. All these herbs helps to pacify the vitiated doshas in body. All these products are 100% natural products that are formulated under the medical supervision of experienced MD Ayurveda experts. No any chemicals, starch, additives, yeast, binders, sugars and colours are added to these herbal formulations.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Atherosclerotic Vascular Disease

Ayurvedic treatment for Atherosclerotic vascular disease is an effective and harmless way to restore the functioning of blood vessels. There are three energies in the body – vata, pitta and kapha, in a balanced state represent the healthy state of body. Imbalance of any of three energies result in the diseases. Cause of Atherosclerotic vascular disease according to Ayurveda is the imbalance of kapha dosha. In this complication excess of kapha dosha gets accumulated in the arteries. Due to this blood vessels become narrow, stiff and clogged resulting in the atherosclerosis.

To treat the cardiovascular complications, Ayurveda emphasizes on the cleaning of blood vessels, minute channels and removal of accumulated kapha. Mother Nature has the blessed us with the various herbs like Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Choti elaichi (Elettaria cardamom), Punarnava (Boerrhavia diffusa), Pipal tvak (Ficus religiosa), Dalchini (Cinnamon tamala) which are quite effective to boost up the good heart health. These herbs help in the dilatation of blood vessels and also maintain the good blood supply throughout the body.

Don't ignore these symptoms and do visit your doctor

Atherosclerosis develops gradually, even Mild atherosclerosis usually doesn't have any symptoms. However symptoms may include

• Atherosclerosis in heart arteries may include the symptoms like chest pain or angina.
• Atherosclerosis in the arteries leading to your brain may include the symptoms like difficulty in speaking or unclear speech, sudden numbness or weakness in your arms or legs, temporary loss of vision in one eye, or drooping muscles in your face. It can be a transient ischemic attack (TIA) and may lead to a stroke.
• Atherosclerosis in the arteries in your arms and legs, may include the symptoms like leg pain while walking.
• Atherosclerosis in the arteries leading to your kidneys, you may have high blood pressure or kidney failure.

If you know the exact cause of disease, then you can get the best treatment

Major Causes:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• High triglycerides blood
• Smoking
• Or any other sources of tobacco
• Insulin resistance
• obesity
• diabetes
• Inflammation from diseases, such as arthritis, lupus or infections, or inflammation of unknown cause

Ayurvedic treatment for Atherosclerotic vascular disease by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda offers Heart Care Pack to treat Atherosclerotic vascular disease. This pack contains three products:

1. CAP. TOTAL HEART SUPPORT
2. ARJUN TEA
3. ARJUNA CAPSULES

which are prepared from the pure extracts of herbs. Herbs used in the formulation of these herbal products are quiet effective to promote the good heart health. Efficacy of the herbs is checked in the labs before making any herbal formulation. All the herbal products are prepared under the guidance of highly experienced MD Ayurveda doctors.

HEART CARE PACK

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. TOTAL HEART SUPPORT:

Total health support is an effective Ayurvedic treatment for Atherosclerotic vascular disease. This herbal product is available in the form of capsules. Use of this herbal product is quite good in preventing the blockage of arteries and to maintain the healthy blood flow in the body. It is prepared by the combination of herbs which are listed below.

Ingredients:

1. Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) – It is nature's boon for treatment of Atherosclerotic vascular disease.  Cardio protective properties of this herb help to strengthen the heart muscles and also clear the obstruction from blood vessels. Regular use of this herb is quite good to relieve the heart problems.
2. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – Ashwagandha is considered as the one of most potent herb in Ayurveda as it offers the overall health benefits. This herb is very useful to manage the problems which are responsible for this disease. Hence use of this herb is quiet effective to maintain healthy cholesterol level, blood pressure level in body.
3. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) – Brahmi is also considered as an effective herb to manage the symptoms of Atherosclerotic vascular disease and supports the good heart health.
4. Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) – Shankhpushi is also another important ingredient for the treatment of Atherosclerotic vascular disease. It helps in the dilatation of blood vessels and maintains the good blood supply throughout the body.

DOSAGE – One capsule two times daily with plain water.

2. ARJUN TEA:

Arjuna tea is an amazing and safe Ayurvedic treatment for Atherosclerotic vascular disease. It is an herbal tea which is loaded with the amazing cardiovascular properties. Herbs used in the formulation of arjuna tea are Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Choti elaichi (Elettaria cardamom), Punarnava (Boerrhavia diffusa), Pipal tvak (Ficus religiosa), Dalchini (Cinnamon tamala).

Benefits:

All these herbs possess the antioxidants which protect the body from free radical damage. These herbs together work like a magic to remove the accumulated kapha from the blood vessels. They help in the dilation of vessels and maintain the proper blood supply in whole body. Hence this herbal tea acts like body cleanser and eliminates all the toxins and impurities from body. Daily consumption of this herbal tea is quite useful to live a healthy and disease free life. It supports the healthy circulatory system, healthy cholesterol level and healthy blood pressures level in body.

How to Use:

• Put one cup of water and 1 cup of milk in a pan.
• Add 1 teaspoon of Arjun tea and then stir the mixture.
• Boil the mixture and simmer it on low heat. Boil until it reduces to one cup.
• Strain the tea and add sweetener if needed (drink without sugar).

3. ARJUNA CAPSULES:

Arjuna capsules are also another amazing herbal formulation by the Planet Ayurveda to treat the Atherosclerotic vascular disease. These capsules are prepared from the pure extract of herb Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna).

Benefits:

This herb is known to be quite effective to strengthen blood vessels and clear the obstruction from arteries. This herb helps to prevent the formation of blood clots and maintains the proper blood flow in body. It helps to decrease the LDL cholesterol and increases the HDL cholesterol. Regular use of this herb is very fruitful to overcome the cardiovascular health issues.

DOSAGE – One capsule two times daily with plain water.

WHY SHOULD ONE GO FOR PLANET AYURVEDA?

• All the products are 100% pure.
• Efficacy of the herbs is checked in the labs before making any herbal formulation.
• Products are free from chemicals, preservatives, starch and any color.
• All the products are manufactured under the guidance of highly experienced MD Ayurveda doctors.