Arjuna is a natural tree bark that has been used medicinally for cardioprotection. Also known as Terminalia, this tree species has long been used for medicinal purposes in many regions of the world, particularly East Asia. 

While arjuna bark medical uses are plenty, the plant is most commonly used to support heart health and protect against problems like heart failure and chest pain. Arjuna might also help the heart by reducing cholesterol levels and promoting healthy blood pressure. 

Here’s all you need to know about arjuna and why Revive has included this powerful natural ingredient in their Blood Pressure RX formula.

What Are the Health Benefits of Arjuna

Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) is a medicinal tree native to India and a long-standing staple of Ayurvedic medicine, especially for heart health. Modern science is beginning to back up what traditional practitioners have known for centuries. Research shows that Arjuna may help support blood pressure, heart rate, and exercise capacity. It’s also being studied for other uses like managing cholesterol, diabetes, and osteoarthritis, though more clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits.

Arjuna Benefits for Heart Health

As previously mentioned, Arjuna is primarily known for its cardiovascular benefits. A growing body of research suggests that incorporating Arjuna into your daily supplement routine can support multiple aspects of heart function and overall wellness, from reducing chest pain to improving blood flow and heart strength.

Here’s how Arjuna supports heart health:

Chest Pain (Angina)

Chest pain, or angina, is one of the most common traditional uses of Arjuna. Clinical research has shown that Arjuna supplements may improve symptoms in people with angina and reduce the frequency of chest pain episodes. Some studies even suggest it may decrease the need for conventional chest pain medication.

Heart Disease

People with heart disease or those at risk of developing it may benefit from Arjuna’s cholesterol-supportive properties. Studies show it can help lower total cholesterol and LDL (“bad” cholesterol) while potentially raising HDL (“good” cholesterol). These improvements may reduce long-term cardiovascular risk.

Heart Failure

In individuals with chronic heart failure, research shows Arjuna can help support the heart’s left ventricle, its main pumping chamber. When used alongside standard medications, Arjuna may improve how efficiently the heart pumps blood, which can enhance quality of life and physical endurance.

Improves Heart Function and Circulation

By increasing left ventricular ejection fraction (how much blood the heart pumps per beat), Arjuna makes the heart’s job easier. This improved efficiency reduces resting heart rate and blood pressure while increasing oxygen delivery throughout the body. It may also reduce left ventricular mass, a sign of better long-term heart health.

May Lower High Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Several studies have found that Arjuna supplementation can reduce high levels of blood fats, including triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. This makes it a promising natural aid in managing hyperlipidemia and overall cardiovascular risk factors.

Blood Pressure Support

Some research suggests Arjuna may help lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and improving circulation. However, the evidence is still emerging, and results can vary. More clinical trials are needed to confirm consistent effects.

Antioxidant Protection

Arjuna bark is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and tannins, which help combat oxidative stress, a major contributor to heart disease. These compounds may protect heart tissue from damage caused by free radicals.

Stress Resilience

Traditionally viewed as an adaptogen, Arjuna may help the body manage both physical and emotional stress. Early studies in animals and small human trials suggest it could support a healthier stress response, which indirectly benefits heart health.

Other Benefits of Arjuna Capsules 

Exercise Performance and Aerobic Capacity

Improved circulation and heart function may translate into better physical performance. Preliminary research shows Arjuna can boost aerobic capacity, enhance repeated sprint performance, and increase power output, making it a potential aid for endurance and athletic training.

Diabetes Support

Some studies suggest Arjuna may help reduce pre-meal blood sugar levels, particularly when used in combination with other diabetes treatments. However, more research is needed to determine its effect on long-term blood sugar markers like HbA1c.

Osteoarthritis

Formulations containing Arjuna have been shown to reduce stiffness and discomfort in people with osteoarthritis. While it’s not a standalone treatment, it may offer complementary relief when combined with other therapies.

Be on Your Way to a Healthier Heart

We at Revive MD hope you take a proactive approach to ensure you’re taking care of your heart. Besides adding our nutraceuticals to your health regimen, be sure to consider keeping IN some sort of cardiovascular exercise throughout the year (offseason & in-season).  The best heart health routines typically include the right diet and supplementation, along with a healthy exercise program. We also recommend consulting with your physician for more individualized instructions on how to keep your heart healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should avoid taking Arjuna?

Arjuna is generally safe for most adults, but there are a few cases where it’s best to avoid it or check with your doctor first:

• If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding: There isn’t enough research to say it’s safe, so it’s better to steer clear for now.

• If you have low blood sugar or take diabetes medication: Arjuna can lower blood sugar levels, which might interfere with your meds. Talk to your doctor and keep an eye on your levels.

• If you have a bleeding disorder: Arjuna may slow blood clotting, which could increase your risk of bruising or bleeding.

• If you’re getting surgery soon: Stop taking Arjuna at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery to lower the risk of bleeding.

• If you’re allergic to Terminalia plants: Avoid Arjuna if you’ve had allergic reactions to similar herbs.
  
  

As always, check in with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have health conditions or take other medications.

Can you take Arjuna every day?

Yes, many adults can take Arjuna daily, but how much and for how long depends on your health and what you're using it for.

• Typical dosage: For general heart health or conditions like heart failure or metabolic syndrome, a common dose is 500 mg, taken 1 to 3 times a day.

• How long to take it: Most people use Arjuna for 1 to 3 months at a time. If you’re thinking about using it longer, it’s best to do so under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
  
  

Taking it consistently matters, but always check with your doctor to make sure the dosage and duration are right for you.

What are the side effects of Arjuna?

Arjuna is usually well-tolerated, but like any supplement, it can cause side effects in some people. Here’s what to watch for:

• Bleeding risk: Arjuna might slow blood clotting, which can raise the risk of bruising or bleeding, especially if you have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners.

• Surgery-related risks: It can increase bleeding during and after surgery, so it’s recommended to stop using it at least two weeks before any procedure.

• Low blood sugar: If you take medication for diabetes, Arjuna might amplify those effects and cause your blood sugar to drop too low.

• Mild digestive issues: Some people report nausea or an upset stomach, though this is pretty rare.
  
  

If anything feels off while you’re taking an Arjuna supplement, stop using it and check in with your doctor.

What’s the best time to take Arjuna?

The ideal time to take Arjuna is usually twice a day, with 2 capsules taken with or right after meals, unless your healthcare provider suggests something different.

• Why take it with food? Having it with meals can help reduce the chance of stomach upset and may also improve how well your body absorbs it.

• Morning and evening are common times to take it, just try to be consistent each day for the best results.
  
  

As always, follow the directions from your doctor or the product label, especially if you’re taking other medications or managing a health condition.

How long does Arjuna powder take to work?

The effects of Arjuna don’t show up overnight, it takes some time and consistency.

• When you might notice benefits: Many people start to feel improvements in things like heart function, energy levels, or blood pressure within a few weeks of taking it daily.

• It varies person to person: If you’re managing a chronic condition, it might take longer, sometimes a month or more, to see meaningful changes.

• Factors that affect timing: Your dosage, overall health, and what you're using Arjuna for all play a role in how quickly it works.
  
  

Herbal supplements tend to work gradually, so patience and daily use are key. If you’re unsure whether it’s helping, talk with your healthcare provider about what to track and when to reassess.

The information being presented in this blog is intended to be used as educational or resource information only. It is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice from your healthcare provider. This content should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please contact your healthcare provider. You should call 911 for all medical emergencies. Revive MD is not liable for any advice or information provided on this blog, which advice or information is provided on an “as-is” basis, and assumes no liability for diagnosis, treatment, decisions, or actions made in reliance upon any advice or information contained on this blog. No warranties, express or implied, are made on the information that is provided.