A REVIEW ON PLANT BASED HYPERTENSION THERAPY SCIENTIFIC EVALUATION OF TERMINALIA ARJUNA AS A CARDIAC TONIC AND ANTIHYPERTENSIVE HERB

Hypertension is a serious global health concern and a critical contributor to cardiovascular illness and death. The scientific assessment of Terminalia arjuna, a traditional medicinal herb well-known in Ayurveda for its cardioprotective qualities, has been prompted by the growing interest in plant-based therapeutic agents. The antihypertensive potential of T. arjuna is rigorously examined in this review, with particular attention paid to its phytochemical composition, mechanisms of action, and therapeutic efficacy. Significant bioactive components, including arjunolic acid, flavonoids, triterpenoids, and glycosides, have strong anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and antioxidant properties that help control blood pressure. Preclinical and clinical studies demonstrate that T. arjuna enhances cardiac function by increasing myocardial contractility, reducing oxidative stress, altering lipid profiles, and facilitating endothelial relaxation. Additionally, data shows its efficacy as an adjuvant therapy for mild to moderate to severe hypertension with low negative outcomes. Variables in dosage, formulation, and research design underscore the need for standardized clinical trials despite encouraging results. Overall, Terminalia arjuna has considerable promise as a natural, safe, and effective myocardial tonic and antihypertensive drug, encouraging its integration into alternative therapy regimens for cardiovascular health.