Study Reveals Dhikr and Gratitude Benefit Heart Health

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide, driving clinical researchers to evaluate accessible, non-pharmacological interventions that complement standard medical care. A comprehensive review led by faculty at Universitas Airlangga reveals that the Islamic spiritual practice of zikr—the remembrance of God—combined with feelings of gratitude, can significantly mitigate chronic stress, regulate autonomic nervous system balance, and lower physiological markers associated with coronary heart disease.

Clinical Evidence From Universitas Airlangga

Key Clinical Takeaways:

• A review published by Universitas Airlangga researchers analyzing over 50 scientific studies from Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar over the past decade demonstrates that consistent zikr practice decreases cortisol levels while boosting endorphins and dopamine.
• Clinical data cited in the study show that patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who engaged in therapeutic zikr experienced marked reductions in chest pain and anxiety compared to control groups.
• The review positions psychospiritual interventions as a viable, low-cost adjunctive therapy to suppress oxidative stress, reduce vascular inflammation, and improve endothelial function.

The Global Toll of Coronary Disease

The global burden of cardiovascular illness is extensive. According to data from the Global Burden of Disease highlighted by Universitas Airlangga Professor Abdurachman, more than 244 million individuals worldwide live with coronary heart disease (CHD), including approximately two million residents in Indonesia. Long-term psychological stress and clinical anxiety damage vascular architecture over time, accelerating the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and increasing cardiovascular morbidity.

Screening a Decade of Peer-Reviewed Data

To evaluate the physiological impact of spiritual coping mechanisms, researchers screened more than 50 peer-reviewed articles published over the last ten years across major databases, including PubMed and Scopus. The findings indicate that repetitive verbal expressions such as Subhanallah wa bihamdih, Subhanallahil ‘Adzim foster an optimistic mindset and gratitude. These psychological states directly suppress oxidative stress and bolster immune regulation.

Neurochemical Shifts and Autonomic Stability

Physiologically, structured zikr triggers a measurable neuroendocrine response. When practiced consistently, it reduces circulating levels of the primary stress hormone cortisol while simultaneously elevating endogenous opioids, beta-endorphins, and dopamine. This neurochemical shift stabilizes the autonomic nervous system, optimizing heart rate variability and blood pressure regulation. Furthermore, clinical trials analyzed in the review noted that hemodialysis patients incorporating regular zikr routines reported substantial drops in anxiety scores alongside measurable improvements in overall health-related quality of life.

Managing Inflammation and Accessing Care

Beyond autonomic and neuroendocrine pathways, the review underscores the impact of psychospiritual practices on systemic inflammation. Chronic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction drive plaque progression in coronary arteries. Sourced literature demonstrates that structured relaxation and spiritual remembrance help regulate inflammatory cytokines, interleukins, and C-reactive protein (CRP). For patients managing complex chronic conditions, these biological adjustments offer a cost-effective adjunct to conventional pharmacology.

Integrating lifestyle modifications and stress-reduction protocols into a comprehensive cardiovascular care plan requires individualized clinical oversight.

As academic inquiry into psychospiritual medicine advances, researchers emphasize that structured practices like zikr function as powerful behavioral tools that reshape physiological responses to stress.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.