Did you know that herbs can help your heart stay healthy? According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, certain types of herbs may protect against coronary artery disease and reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke.
The NCI reports that when combined with conventional treatments, herbs have been shown to help patients improve heart health by boosting their blood flow, lowering blood pressure and improving blood-sugar control.
Before adding herbs to your diet, talk to your physician about possible side effects and interactions with other medications.
To learn more about how herbs can help your heart, check out these 10 heart-healthy herbs below.
1) Basil
Basil is one of the most popular herbs in the world. It is often found on pizzas and in pestos, which are two reasons why it’s also a favorite herb among foodies. However, basil is more than just a flavorful herb—it is also a heart healthy herb! Here are seven benefits of basil that make it an excellent addition to your diet
2) Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is both an herb and a spice. It gets its name from the cayenne region in South America, where it was first grown commercially.
The word cayenne itself comes from the word capischin, which means red pepper. In other words, this is a spicy little herb that packs a punch!
3) Garlic
Garlic is an herb with a long history of use in cooking and as a natural remedy for many conditions.
It has been used as an antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiseptic agent. It has also been used for everything from lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure to fighting coughs, colds, and bronchitis. Garlic may also help prevent heart disease by reducing the risk of clot formation in people who have a common type of irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation (AF).
Studies show that garlic can help relieve symptoms related to allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing or congestion. And research indicates that garlic might provide some protection against stomach ulcers by inhibiting the growth of H.
4) Ginger
Ginger has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, and it’s no wonder that it works well as a digestive aid and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Ginger may also help with lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. Studies on animals have shown that this spice can help reduce blood pressure.
In one study, those who consumed ginger had lowered levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol compared to those who didn’t consume the spice.
5) Hawthorn
Hawthorn is one of the best natural herbs for heart health. It’s traditionally used as a heart tonic, which means it’s used to help regulate the circulatory system and strengthen the heart muscle.
Hawthorn also has a calming effect on nerves, so it’s often helpful for those who suffer from anxiety or depression. The berries are edible and can be dried and stored like other fruits like raisins.
They have a tart flavor but are often mixed with sugar for sweetening.
Hawthorn flowers have been used in herbalism since medieval times, though they are not consumed orally because they produce cyanide when eaten raw. They contain flavonoids that act as antioxidants that help maintain healthy cells and fight free radicals in the body.
6) Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a great plant for improving your heart health. It’s an excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and can help lower blood pressure.
Plus, hibiscus tea has been shown to improve cardiovascular disease risk factors such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and high blood pressure. If you’re looking for heart healthy herbs to add to your diet today, try adding some hibiscus!
7) Lavender
Lavender is a great choice for both relaxation and heart health. It has been used for centuries as a sleep aid, relieving stress and depression.
Lavender also contains potent antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body, which can cause heart damage.
Lavendula officinalis is the variety most often used for cooking and medicinal purposes because it has the highest concentration of essential oils, making up about 60% of its weight.
8) Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is one of the most popular and well-known herbs on this list. In many cultures, it has been used for centuries as a calming agent and anxiety reliever.
It also functions as an antihistamine, helping to alleviate allergy symptoms like watery eyes, itchy skin, or sneezing.
Lemon balm can be brewed into a tea or taken in capsule form for these purposes. However, you should never take lemon balm in place of prescribed medication for serious health conditions.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak with your doctor before using lemon balm because its effects are not well understood in this population.
9) Oregano
Oregano is one of the best herbs for heart health. It contains a variety of antioxidants and phytonutrients that have been shown in studies to promote cardiovascular health.
One study found that people who took oregano daily were less likely to develop plaque buildup on their artery walls and had lower cholesterol levels than those who didn’t use the herb.
Oregano also has antibacterial properties, which means it can help keep your heart infection free!
Oregano is an antioxidant powerhouse containing phenolic compounds like rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and cinnamic acid.
These compounds act as strong antioxidants by protecting cells from oxidative stressors that damage cellular DNA, proteins, and cell membranes.
10) Rosemary
Rosemary is an herb that has been used for centuries due to its medicinal properties. In addition, it is also a common cooking ingredient that adds flavor and aroma.
Rosemary can be used fresh or dried, and it pairs well with other herbs such as thyme, sage, oregano, and marjoram. Rosemary also works well with vegetables like tomatoes and eggplant.
And while rosemary may seem like a sweeter herb because of its pine-like taste, it contains strong antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body.
I could not resist commenting. Exceptionally well written!