Arjun

Arjun is marketed in the form of vegetable capsules, each containing 500 mg of powder and decoction of Terminalia arjuna bark. This pharmaceutical form facilitates oral administration and ensures optimal bioavailability of the active ingredients.

Arjun is recommended as an adjunct in:

• Angina pectoris and ischaemic heart disease;
• Post-myocardial infarction and post-heart surgery recovery;
• Hypertension;
• Hyperlipidaemia and dyslipidaemia (through its cholesterol-lowering effect).

Another remarkable aspect is its lithotriptic nature, which suggests an adjuvant role in the elimination of kidney stones.

Terminalia arjuna bark contains a complex of biologically active substances, among which the following stand out:

• Phytosterols (especially sitosterol);
• Tannins – ellagic acid, arjunolic acid, glucotannic acid, pyrocatechol;
• Mineral salts – sodium, calcium, magnesium;
• Alkaline chlorides and natural sugars.

This composition explains its multiple pharmacological activities: anti-ischaemic, cardiotonic, vasodilator, antihypertensive, hypolipidemic, diuretic, haemostatic, astringent and revitalising.

The usual recommended dose is 1 capsule 3 times a day, taken with a glass of water.

The treatment can last up to 2-3 months depending on the severity of the symptoms and the recommendation of a specialist. In elderly patients or those with chronic conditions, the dosage should be individualised.

Arjun is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, due to the lack of clinical studies proving its safety;
• Children under 12 years of age;
• Known hypersensitivity to any of the product's ingredients.

Caution is also advised in people with low blood pressure due to the plant's vasodilatory effect.

Arjun may slow down blood clotting, so caution and medical advice are necessary in cases of coagulation disorders.

Terminalia arjuna is a natural adaptogen, which means that it supports the body's ability to adapt to physical and emotional stress.

Thus, the product can be successfully integrated into a holistic cardiovascular prevention regimen.

Its long-term use helps maintain vascular elasticity, reduce LDL cholesterol levels and protect against free radicals.

Arjun is generally well tolerated. Adverse effects are rare and mild. They may include:

• Mild gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, abdominal discomfort);
• Dizziness or slight drops in blood pressure at high doses;
• Skin allergic reactions (rare, in case of hypersensitivity).

If any unexpected side effects occur, stop taking the product and consult a doctor.

Due to its antihypertensive and lipid-lowering properties, Arjun may enhance the effect of medicines such as:

• Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, diuretics
• Statins or other lipid-lowering agents

Blood pressure and lipid profile should be monitored during concomitant use with such therapies.

Arjun may also interfere with the action of anticoagulant drugs, so caution is advised.

There are no documented cases of severe overdose with Terminalia arjuna, but exceeding the recommended dose may cause marked hypotension, dizziness, lethargy or gastrointestinal disorders.

In case of accidental overdose, it is recommended to discontinue administration and seek medical attention.

The product should be stored at temperatures below 25°C, in the original packaging, away from direct light, moisture and heat sources. Keep out of the reach and sight of small children. The expiry date is stated on the packaging and must be strictly observed.

• PubMed, Review of Terminalia arjuna - an anti-cardiovascular drug
• WebMD, Terminalia arjuna
• PubMed, Terminalia arjuna, a cardioprotective medicinal plant - relevance in the modern era of pharmaceuticals and green nanomedicine - a review
• Wiley Online Library, Terminalia arjuna in stable chronic angina: Systematic review and meta-analysis