Arjuna Nature’s Ancient Heart Healer

For over 3,000 years, Ayurvedic healers have turned to one tree above all others when it comes to heart health—Arjuna. Towering along riverbanks in India, this tree was more than just part of the landscape; it was medicine for warriors, elders, and everyday people who needed strength, endurance, and resilience. Whether recovering from battle, healing from grief, or seeking protection against heart disease, Arjuna was the answer.

Today, modern science is catching up with ancient wisdom, proving that this powerful tree bark can strengthen the heart, regulate blood pressure, support circulation, and protect against cardiovascular disease. But its benefits don’t stop there. Arjuna has also been used for liver detoxification, kidney health, wound healing, and metabolic balance.

Ayurveda: The Warrior’s Heart Tonic

In Ayurveda, the heart is seen as the seat of Ojas—the vital essence that determines our energy, immunity, and longevity. Arjuna is classified as a Rasayana, meaning it nourishes and rejuvenates the body, particularly the cardiovascular system.

• Strengthens the Heart Muscle – Arjuna has long been used to support cardiac function, reduce heart palpitations, and aid recovery from angina, heart attacks, and heart failure. It enhances heart strength and endurance, making it an essential herb for maintaining long-term cardiovascular health.
• Balances Excess Pitta & Kapha – An excess of Pitta (heat and intensity) can lead to inflammation, hypertension, and excessive stress on the heart. Kapha (heaviness and stagnation) can contribute to arterial plaque buildup, sluggish circulation, and water retention. Arjuna helps regulate both by cooling inflammation, improving circulation, and strengthening the cardiovascular system.
• Regulates Blood Pressure & Circulation – Traditionally used to manage both high and low blood pressure, Arjuna supports vascular function, enhances circulation, and promotes arterial flexibility, helping to stabilise blood flow.
• Reduces Inflammation & Supports Arterial Health – The tannins, flavonoids, and antioxidants in Arjuna help tone blood vessels, reduce arterial stiffness, and prevent plaque accumulation. Its ability to clear excess Kapha, which can lead to arterial congestion, makes it particularly useful for long-term cardiovascular protection.
• Improves Circulation & Blood Quality – Traditionally used for conditions involving poor circulation, sluggish blood flow, and excessive bleeding due to its astringent nature.
• Supports Emotional Resilience – Ayurveda recognises the deep connection between the heart and emotions. Arjuna has traditionally been given to those experiencing grief, sadness, anxiety, or emotional trauma, helping to calm the nervous system and restore inner strength. In the Charaka Samhita, one of Ayurveda’s most respected texts, Arjuna is described as a powerful protector of the heart, often prescribed to warriors to enhance both physical and emotional endurance.
• Promotes Liver Health & Detoxification – Arjuna is known in Ayurveda for its liver-supporting properties. It helps flush out toxins, supports bile production, and protects liver cells from oxidative stress, making it useful for those with liver imbalances, fatty liver, or toxin buildup.
• Supports Kidney & Urinary Health – Traditionally used for kidney health and urinary tract support, Arjuna helps regulate fluid balance and reduce oxidative damage in the renal system.
• Aids Wound Healing & Skin Health – With its antimicrobial and astringent properties, Arjuna has been used topically to support wound healing, stop excessive bleeding, and protect against infection. It is sometimes applied as a paste for ulcers and skin conditions.
• Helps Regulate Blood Sugar & Metabolism – While not as well-known as herbs like Gymnema or Cinnamon for diabetes management, Arjuna has been studied for its potential to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
• Supports Thyroid Function – Preliminary research suggests Arjuna may help regulate thyroid hormones, particularly in cases of hypothyroidism, though further studies are needed.

Arjuna's Other Traditional Uses

In Siddha and Unani medicine, Arjuna has been valued as both a heart tonic and a wound healer. In folk medicine across India and Southeast Asia, it has been used to regulate blood pressure, support heart health, and aid recovery after heart disease.

Scientifically Studied Benefits of Arjuna

Arjuna’s reputation as a healing powerhouse isn’t just rooted in tradition—modern research confirms its diverse health benefits, particularly for the cardiovascular system. Clinical studies have demonstrated its ability to strengthen the heart, regulate blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and improve endurance.

Cardiovascular Health & Heart Strength

Arjuna is one of the few herbs shown to directly improve heart muscle function, particularly in individuals with heart disease. Research indicates that it enhances left ventricular function, which is crucial for the heart's ability to pump oxygenated blood efficiently.

• A 2007 study by Dwivedi found that Arjuna significantly improves left ventricular ejection fraction, a key marker of heart function, particularly in individuals with heart failure or post-heart attack recovery. [1]
• In a 12-week clinical trial, Arjuna bark extract was found to improve heart function in patients with stable angina, reducing their dependency on nitrate medications used for chest pain. [2]
• Other research suggests that Arjuna helps improve cardiac output and circulation, making it beneficial for those recovering from heart disease or cardiac surgery.

Blood Pressure Regulation

Arjuna has been studied for its natural antihypertensive properties, showing promise in helping those with high blood pressure (hypertension). Its effects are linked to its ability to act as a vasodilator, meaning it helps relax blood vessels and improve circulation, reducing strain on the heart.

• A review by Amalraj & Gopi (2016) confirmed that tannins found in Arjuna enhance nitric oxide synthesis, leading to vasodilation and improved blood flow and reduced blood pressure. [3]
• A 2001 study by Rao et al. found that Arjuna Kwath (25 ml twice daily) combined with Atenolol (50 mg twice daily) significantly lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with Stage III hypertension. The study also found that Arjuna helped reduce left ventricular mass, an indicator of heart strain. [4]
• Research also shows that Arjuna increases nitric oxide levels, which play a key role in relaxing blood vessels, improving blood flow, and reducing vascular resistance. 
• Arjuna also exhibits mild diuretic properties, which may help reduce fluid retention and support healthy blood pressure regulation, particularly in those with Kapha-related heart conditions.
• Its cooling and astringent properties also make it particularly beneficial for individuals with Pitta-related hypertension, where excess heat and inflammation contribute to elevated blood pressure.

Cholesterol & Arterial Health

Arjuna has demonstrated significant benefits for lipid metabolism and cholesterol regulation, making it a valuable herb for preventing atherosclerosis (arterial plaque buildup) and supporting overall heart health.

• A 2014 double-blind study by Kapoor et al. found that taking 500 mg of Arjuna twice daily for three months significantly lowered LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in patients with coronary artery disease. The study also noted a reduction in inflammatory markers (hsCRP, IL-18, IL-6, TNF-α), which contribute to cardiovascular disease. [5]
• A 2001 clinical trial by Gupta et al. compared Arjuna (500 mg daily), Vitamin E (400 IU daily), and a placebo in patients with coronary artery disease. Arjuna led to a 9.7% reduction in total cholesterol and a 15.8% decrease in LDL cholesterol, comparable to the effects of Vitamin E. The study also found that Arjuna lowered lipid peroxides, reducing oxidative stress linked to heart disease. [6]
• A 2005 study by Khalil found that patients with coronary artery disease who took Arjuna bark powder along with statins for three months experienced a 16% reduction in LDL cholesterol, 15% reduction in total cholesterol, and 11% reduction in triglycerides. [7]
• It contains flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which protect blood vessels from oxidative stress and inflammation. 

Angina & Cardiovascular Function

Arjuna has been traditionally used as a heart tonic to strengthen the cardiovascular system, and modern research confirms its protective effects on heart function, angina, and post-heart attack recovery. Studies have shown that Arjuna can reduce the frequency of angina episodes, improve heart function, and enhance exercise tolerance. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic stable angina, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure, helping to support overall cardiac efficiency and endurance.

• A 2002 clinical trial by Bharani et al. found that Arjuna (500 mg every 8 hours) significantly reduced the frequency of angina episodes in patients with chronic stable angina (NYHA Class II–III). The study also showed that Arjuna improved treadmill exercise duration, indicating better heart function and endurance. [8]
• A 2005 study by Dwivedi et al. found that patients recovering from acute myocardial infarction who took Arjuna (500 mg twice daily for three months) showed a significant reduction in mitral regurgitation and improved heart function. [9]

Improves Exercise Endurance

Arjuna is increasingly recognized for its ability to enhance endurance, stamina, and physical performance, making it beneficial for athletes and individuals recovering from heart conditions.

• A 2002 study by Bharani et al. found that patients with angina who took Arjuna (500 mg every 8 hours) showed increased treadmill exercise duration, suggesting improved cardiac efficiency and endurance. [10]
• A 2015 study by Kasture et al. found that Arjuna improves cardiac efficiency, meaning the heart can work harder with less strain, leading to increased exercise endurance and reduced fatigue.
• Research suggests that it enhances oxygen utilisation, allowing muscles and organs to function more efficiently under physical stress. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with cardiac conditions, chronic fatigue, or those in post-illness recovery.
• In Ayurveda, Arjuna has traditionally been used to strengthen the heart in warriors and athletes, improving both physical and emotional resilience.

Organs & Systems Supported by Arjuna

Heart & Circulatory System – Strengthens cardiac muscles, regulates blood pressure, improves circulation, and supports arterial health.

Nervous System – Helps reduce stress-related heart conditions and promotes emotional resilience.

Liver & Metabolism – Supports cholesterol balance and lipid metabolism, indirectly benefiting heart health.

Kidneys & Urinary System – Regulates fluid balance, supports kidney function, and helps reduce oxidative stress in the renal system.

Endocrine System & Metabolism – Can help support thyroid function, blood sugar balance, and metabolic health.

Arjuna is also used in herbal formulas for pets, including our Cardiac Care blend, which supports heart function, circulation, and endurance in animals prone to cardiovascular issues. It may be particularly beneficial for aging pets and active breeds needing extra heart support.

Arjuna Daily Dosage Recommendations

For best results, liquid extracts offer fast absorption and concentrated medicinal benefits compared to powders, capsules, or tablets. Tinctures extract a broader spectrum of beneficial plant compounds, including both water- and alcohol-soluble constituents, which may not be fully available in powdered or encapsulated forms. Unlike dried herbs that require digestion, tinctures bypass this step for quicker and more complete absorption. Our Arjuna tincture ensures you receive only the most potent medicinal constituents, without the bulk of indigestible plant matter.

• For General Heart Health & Wellness: 3–6 ml per day
• For Blood Pressure & Circulatory Support: 5–10 ml per day
• For Recovery from Heart Conditions (Post-Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Angina): 6–12 ml per day

For best results, take in split doses (morning and evening)

Our tinctures are alcohol-free, making them suitable for all ages and those who prefer to avoid alcohol. We use alcohol during the initial extraction process to draw out the full spectrum of medicinal compounds, then carefully remove the alcohol using a vacuum-based extraction method, leaving behind a pure, highly bioavailable herbal concentrate.

While powdered Arjuna is traditionally used, it requires higher doses to achieve similar effects. Capsules and tablets often contain binders and fillers, while tinctures deliver a pure, concentrated extract in an easy-to-take liquid form. Our alcohol-free tincture provides a highly bioavailable and effective way to support cardiovascular resilience, circulation, and overall heart health. Find out more.

Safety & Contraindications for Arjuna

Blood Pressure & Heart Medications:

• Arjuna has natural blood pressure-lowering effects, which may enhance the effects of antihypertensive drugs (like beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or calcium channel blockers), potentially leading to excessively low blood pressure.
• Arjuna also has mild blood-thinning properties and may increase the effects of anticoagulants like Warfarin, raising the risk of bleeding. Because it improves oxygen delivery to the heart, individuals taking nitrates for angina should consult a healthcare provider before use to avoid excessive vasodilation.
• Traditionally used for irregular heartbeats, Arjuna may influence heart rate, so those with serious arrhythmias should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Arjuna A Timeless Ally for the Heart

For centuries, Arjuna has been a guardian of the heart, used by Ayurvedic healers to strengthen both the physical and emotional aspects of this vital organ. Its ability to enhance heart function, regulate blood pressure, and promote resilience has made it a trusted remedy for generations.

Today, as heart disease and stress-related conditions continue to rise, Arjuna stands as a powerful, natural alternative to support cardiovascular health. Whether you're looking to strengthen your heart, balance blood pressure, or promote emotional well-being, Arjuna remains one of nature’s most time-tested allies.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal remedies, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medications. For pet health concerns, please seek guidance from a holistic veterinarian.