Kapalbhati Pranayama and Hypertension: Effects on Blood Pressure Explained

According to WHO, Hypertension is one of the most common chronic disorders in India. About 40 crore Indians are fighting with this silent killer. So, when Ramdev Baba said try Kapalbhati for Hypertension, it became an instant hit. But is Kapalbhati Pranayama safe in hypertension? 

Hypertension is an ugly outcome of stress and anger, of course, genetics too. High intake of salt, smoking, alcohol, and obesity—— can also increase the risks of hypertension. This silent killer increases the risks of heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.

Modern medicine can help manage hypertension, but it provides no cure. So, when the yogi said Kapalbhati can cure Hypertension, he got a lot of ears. 

But is Kapalbhati a cure for hypertension?

Let’s find out!

Also Read: How anger affects your heart?

The Science behind the Skull Shining Technique

In Kapalbhati, your exhalations are short and rapid. You unload your body of carbon dioxide very fast. This can break the balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide and result in more oxygen in the system.

Having an oxygen overload can have unfavorable consequences for your body. When you inhale more air than needed, you exhale too much carbon dioxide. This can narrow the blood vessels and decrease blood circulation, especially in the brain. 

Studies show that just a few minutes or even seconds of over-breathing can decrease brain blood flow by 40 percent. This can induce hallucinations, walking dreams, and out-of-the-body experiences. It is contraindicated for patients suffering from vertigo, epilepsy, or any kind of brain disorder.

Another study cites that practicing Kapalbhati for extended periods results in light-headedness which can be addictive. People who do not have any disorders  can practice them, within limits, enjoy improved mental performance.

Also Read: 9 breathing exercises for your lungs

Other benefits of Kapalbhati Pranayama

This increased oxygen in the system also results in a temporary spike in energy levels. Kapalbhati breathing can help in cleansing the respiratory system. It strengthens the abdominal muscles and the increased level of oxygen purifies the blood.

Kapalbhati can also improve digestion and concentration. It further boosts the body’s metabolic rate and absorption. Because of these factors, Kapalbhati is often suggested as a weight-loss tool. 

Also Read: Bhramari Pranayama in Anxiety

Kapalbhati for Hypertension 

Kapalbhati is a rapid breathing technique, it’s a form of forced hyperventilation. 

Hyperventilation can impact physical performance and cardiovascular conditioning. It can cause a rise in the pH levels in the blood and decrease the acid build-up. Practicing Kapalbhati can be hazardous for people with high blood pressure as it disrupts the blood flow.

Also Read: Do Yoga and Pranayama result in fewer doctor visits?

Studies on Kapalbhati for Hypertension 

A study on the effects of Kapalbhati for Hypertension revealed its effect on blood pressure. The study showed that there was a significant increase in Diastolic Blood pressure afterpracticing Kapalbhati. It suggests sympathetic stimulation and a significant reduction in pulse rate. 

The study concluded that Kapalbhati increases diastolic BP and Oxygen saturation. The practice of kapalbhati exercises the diaphragm vigorously. Another study said, there is a 100% correlation between ‘unsupervised exercise’ and ‘cardiac failure’.

Most experts say that practicing Kapalbhati incorrectly can make one seriously ill. Common contraindications that can be caused by the incorrect practice of Kapalbhati are – 

• Heart problems
• High blood pressure
• Vertigo
• Hernia
• Epilepsy 
• Brain problems.
• Spinal disorders
• Gastric disorders and ulcer

However, Kapalbhati has immense benefits when it’s practiced in a correct way. Experts say under proper guidance, Kapalbhati can help in controlling diabetes, obesity, and asthma. It also energizes the mind and helps to fight depression. 

Also Read: Healing Power of Pranayama

Precautions for kapalbhati

• Practicing Kapalbhati Pranayama in the wrong way can result in severe side effects, ranging from neurological problems to heart-related diseases. So, it’s very important to take some precautions while performing Pranayama. 
• Kapalbhati is best done on an empty stomach in the morning. 
• If you have taken food then do it after 4-5 hours and do not eat anything for at least 20 minutes after doing it.
• Beginners must do it under an expert’s supervision.
• People with respiratory problems and heart disorders must consult their doctor before starting Kapalbhati Pranayama.
• A pregnant woman should avoid practicing Pranayama.
• Patients suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure or hernia, should avoid it.

Things to keep in mind while practicing Kapalbhati

• Focus on maintaining a good posture. 
• Don’t lose control of your abdominal contractions at any time. 
• Don’t overdo it. 
• Keep your practice intentional. 
• Prepare your body and breath properly. 

Real testaments on contraindications of Kapalbhati Pranayama

Many doctors reported that they have seen a lot of patients with complications caused by the wrong practice of Kapalbhati. In one such case, a doctor said that a patient had a lapsed abdominal wall that developed into a hernia. This was caused by the incorrect practice of this Pranayama.

Another patient tried to learn Kapalbhati by watching TV. After 10 days, he complained of agitation, irritability, and migraines. Initially, doctors could not understand the cause of his problem. When he met a yoga expert in a seminar, the yoga guru asked him to stop Kapalbhati immediately.  

Other common contraindications are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and bleeding. 

Caution

• You must practice Kapalbhati on an empty stomach.
• Women should not practice Kapalbhati during or after pregnancy or during menstruation. 
• Hypertension patients should practice it at a slow rate and under the expert’s guidance. 
• If someone has undergone abdominal surgery or suffering from a hernia, they should not practice Kapalbhati. 
• In any case, consult an expert or your doctor before practicing Kapalbhati. 

Simple home remedies that work great for hypertensive patients 

• Start your day with a homemade Bottle of gourd juice.
• Eat pumpkin seeds with honey.
• Drink turmeric milk with cinnamon before bed.
• Try honey with water in the morning. 
• Watermelon is a healthy choice for hypertensive patients.
• Have 2 fresh garlic cloves every morning.
• Take a small piece of bottle gourd and rub it on your sole.

Ayurvedic Doctor’s Take on Kapalbhati for Hypertension

Finally, I would say hypertensive patients should never practice Kapalbhati without consulting their doctor. Also, I suggest they must seek an expert’s supervision while practicing Kapalbhati. Because the incorrect practice of this pranayama can cause severe damage!

Further, one must not begin with Kapalbhati. Kapalbhati gives shocks to your entire body which is not good for a beginner. Take it slow and easy by starting with yoga poses and easy pranayama. Then moving on to Kapalbhati would be a good practice.

Many people get influenced and start practicing these complex pranayamas’ without proper knowledge. That does more harm than good. In conclusion, if you are thinking about starting Kapalbhati, then start it under the expert’s supervision.