A Healthy Heart With Herbs

There are a number of herbs that have shown good results in maintaining a healthy heart. some of these can be used to lower cholesterol levels, some can lower blood sugars, while other herbs can reduce blood pressure to normal. The following are some herbs that are known to help maintain a healthy heart. Note like with any type of herb you should first consult with a doctor or herbalist before using these.

Evening primrose oil can reduce cholesterol and reduce blood pressure. A study done in 1983 at a research institute in Canada, had shown patients with high cholesterol who took evening primrose oil for three months averaged more than a 30 % drop in cholesterol levels. Ginseng has been used for centuries as a heart tonic. This herb lowers cholesterol, lowers blood sugar, and brings blood pressure to normal. Garlic is an amazing herb for lowering cholesterol levels, it raises HDL (the good cholesterol), and lowers LDL (the bad cholesterol) and cuts down triglyceride’s. Women that have an elevated triglycerides levels (over 190 mg/dl), are at major risk of developing coronary artery disease.

It is known that heart disease is relatively low in the Mediterranean countries, due to the higher consumption of olive oil. Recent studies have shown, olive oil a highly monosaturated fat, lowers blood cholesterol without reducing the beneficial HDLS. When making a salad try sprinkling a tablespoon or two of olive oil on it, instead of another oil. Cayenne also reduces triglycercides and LDLS. It has been found that Artichoke will also reduce cholesterol levels, this is where the anticholesterol drug cynara comes from. Oat bran which is rich in beta glucan,a water soluble form of fiber, can reduce blood cholesterol levels by 5 to 10 %. Consuming two ounces of oats in a low fat diet can reduce your blood cholesterol by 5 to 10 %.

There are other herbs as well that can help in lowering your your cholesterol levels, and help you maintain a healthy heart. Consult with a herbalist or your family doctor about these herbs.