Heart Health & Herbs in Harmony

Herbs that support heart and arterial integrity naturally, have been with us for centuries. And while modern medicine has made tremendous strides, taking care of your heart goes beyond pharmaceutical medications and surgical remedies. 

The three main factors relating to heart health are oxidative stress, chronic inflammation and blood pressure management. The blood vessels need to dilate sufficiently for the blood to flow. Plaque buildup needs to be controlled to prevent platelet aggregation, which can lead to clots. Certain herbs promote better blood flow and help reduce risks associated with plaque buildup and clot formation.

First, oxidative stress is a key factor in the development of cardiovascular disease. Because of the high content of antioxidants found in many herbs, they are essential to promote heart health.  Second, Chronic inflammation can lead to a buildup of plaque that can narrow, harden and often damage arteries (atherosclerosis).  And third, controlling blood pressure plays a major role in heart health.  Herbs can provide a healthy resource for these contributing factors. 

As with any addition to a health regimen, any medications or health conditions should always be discussed with your primary care provider, before making changes.  Some herbs may not be compatible with your medical condition or current medications.

Here are four formulas and single tinctures that may be helpful addition to your healthy heart regimen.

Hawthorn Berry Isolate/Heart Tonic

This traditional formula from Potter’s Cyclopedia of Botanical Drugs is used to support heart health and circulation. It supports all functions of the heart and is one of the most valuable herbs for the heart and circulation.

Hawthorn berries are noted for helping to regulate blood pressure, while leaves are used for heart-valve disease.  Hawthorn berries can both lower high blood pressure and bring low blood pressure back to normal. The herb has been used for angina, irregular heartbeat, arterial spasm such as in Raynaud disease), nerve-related insomnia, and early-stage congestive heart failure or cardiomyopathy.

Blood Pressure Care Formula

The formula includes Black Cohosh root, Blue Cohosh root, Yarrow, Hyssop, Wild Cherry, Garlic.

Black Cohosh provides therapeutic actions as a rich source of Calcium, chromium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc, Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and K.  It may help regulate blood pressure, cholesterol and tinnitus.  Blue Cohosh Root has been used to balance blood pressure.

Garlic Bulb is one of our most valuable foods. It is good for the heart, liver, gallbladder, stomach, spleen and lungs. And one of the best natural antibiotics. It detoxifies (chronic lead poisoning), builds blood has helped to lower blood pressure, counteract arteriosclerosis, and improves blood circulation.

Hyssop Leaf was so highly esteemed in the past that it was considered to be a virtual cure-all. Used to promote good circulation, this herbal extract may be important to those with diabetes-related disorders, and those with hypotension. It has been used to flush out excess sodium and lower high blood pressure. At the same time, it may help to raise low blood pressure and soothe the entire body.  

Wild Cherry Bark acts as an anti-tussive, astringent, pectoral, sedative, stomach tonic. It is brimming with calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. The herb is said to be soothing to the nervous system. It has been used to slow a nervous, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) and help a feeble pulse (bradycardia) or frequent, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). Cardiac friendly, Wild Cherry Bark is also thought to be helpful for high blood pressure.

Cholesterol Support

This formula includes Flor de Manita and Fenugreek.  Flor De Manita is widely used to assist the heart in regulation of blood pressure.

This herb is called Hand flower tree or Devil’s hand tree. These beautiful flowers grow on evergreen trees in Central and South America. The flower is commonly used as a stimulant for heart problems.  This artery cleansing herb has also been used to reduce water retention and cholesterol.

Fenugreek has shown some evidence that it may improve heart health by keeping your lipid levels within a healthy range. Lipids are fat-like substances that can accumulate in your blood. 

Red Panax ginseng

Korean, or Red Panax ginseng, is nearly identical botanically to American white ginseng, Panax quinquefolius. The medicinal properties of these two similar plant roots are prescribed in traditional medicine for many conditions. But the antioxidant properties found in ginseng root are found to be useful for patients with heart disorders, by decreasing the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol. 

A healthy lifestyle, diet and exercise are, of course, paramount to good heart health. But natural herbs can also play an integral role in maintaining heart health. Simplify your heart health regimen and consider the benefits of gentle herbal solutions.