Top 10 Herbs for Cardiovascular Health | Medicare Well

livewell
June 12, 2024
Eric kent

Introduction

Cardiovascular health is the health of blood vessels and the heart. Cardiovascular disease is a disease of the blood vessels and heart such as stroke, heart valve disease, coronary heart disease, etc. The risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases are high levels of cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, and smoking. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death affecting people of almost all ages, genders, socioeconomic status, and ethnicities. The signs and symptoms include dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath etc. Some herbs for cardiovascular health are discussed below.

LifeStyle

Changing your lifestyle and some medications are useful for treating cardiovascular diseases. In case of severe health deterioration, surgeries are required. Herbs have an important impact on cardiovascular health. Many herbs play an important role in reducing blood pressure, which is beneficial for preventing heart diseases. Herbs can help manage levels of cholesterols, which reduces the risk of atherosclerosis. Many herbs have anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants in them, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some herbs help to improve the blood flow, thus impacting overall cardiovascular health. Similarly, herbs help in the regulation of blood sugar levels, the prevention of blood clots, the management of weight, etc., these all features contribute to cardiovascular health.

Some herbs and their effect on cardiovascular health are listed below in detail:

Cinnamon

Cinnamon belongs to the family of Lauraceae. Cinnamomum verum, Cinnamomum cassia, Cinnamomum burmanni, and Cinnamomum loureiroi, are the main species of cinnamon commercially. The most common species of cinnamon are Cinnamomum cassia and Cinnamomum verum. The leaves and bark of cinnamon trees are used as herbal medicine in various parts of the world. The bioactive constituents of cinnamon are used against inflammation, diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, etc.

Bioactive Constituents of Cinnamon

The main constituents of cinnamon are trans-cinnamaldehyde and cinnamaldehyde. The bark of cinnamon includes procyanidins and catechins which are flavonoids. Different studies reported the presence of catechin, syringic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, rosmarinic acid, etc. in cinnamon.

Cinnamon and Cardiovascular Health

Cinnamon plays a significant role in the improvement of cardiovascular health. Some of its advantages are listed below:

Management of Cholesterol

It has been widely used for managing cholesterol levels in the body. It helps to reduce the bad cholesterol and increase the good cholesterol in the body. Regular intake of cholesterol helps to reduce the total level of cholesterol, in the body. Thus, cinnamon helps to improve cardiovascular health.

Neutralization of Free Radicals

Polyphenol, an antioxidant in the cinnamon, helps neutralize free radicals in the body that can cause oxidative stress. This is crucial for the protection of the blood vessels and heart.

Sensitivity to Insulin

Cinnamon helps the body to use insulin more effectively, thus improving insulin sensitivity.

Maintenance of Blood Glucose Level

Different studies reported the impact of cinnamon on blood glucose levels. It helps in lowering fasting levels of blood glucose. It also helps to improve HbA1c levels.

Reduction in Blood Pressure

Cinnamon helps in widening and relaxing blood vessels, which results in a reduction of blood pressure. An improved flow of blood and reduced blood pressure plays a role in improving overall cardiovascular health.

Management of weight

The health of the heart is associated with weight management. There are certain bioactive compounds in cinnamon, which play a role in increasing metabolism. The boost in metabolism helps to burn calories more effectively.

Cinnamon Effect on Triglyceride Levels

High levels of triglyceride result in elevating the risk of heart disease. Cinnamon helps to reduce the level of triglyceride. So, it is a potential source of improving heart health.

Prevention of Oxidative Damage

Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory characteristics. It helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Cinnamon plays a role in preventing oxidative damage to the endothelial lining of blood vessels. It is crucial for maintaining heart health.

Precautionary Measures

Despite its various health benefits. Some precautions must be kept in mind while consuming cinnamon. Some of them are:

Cinnamon must be consumed in moderate amounts. Excessive consumption can lead to toxicity of the liver due to the presence of high levels of coumarin.
It can interact with medications for diabetes and blood thinning. One must consult the health care professional before consumption of cinnamon in high amounts.
Keep monitoring yourself for any adverse health reactions of cinnamon, after consuming cinnamon.

Thyme

Thyme belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Thymus vulgaris, Thymus serpyllum, Thymus citriodorus, etc. are some species of Thyme. Thymes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They play a crucial role in improving human health.

Bioactive Constituents of Thyme

Various bioactive constituents in thyme play a role in improving health. It has phenolic compounds like thymol and carvacrol. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in thyme are rosmarinic acid, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, etc. Thyme has terpenes in it, which has various health benefits. These bioactive compounds play a role in medicines and t

Thyme and Cardiovascular Health

Lowering Blood Pressure

Thyme has the potential to lower the blood pressure. The effect of an extract of Thymus vulgaris on lowering the heart rate of people suffering from hypertension has been reported in many studies.

Management of Cholesterol

It has the potential to reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. This plays a role in improving cardiovascular health.

Role in Improving Blood Circulation

Thyme has high iron content and other essential minerals which encourages the production of red blood cells, thus resulting in increased oxygenation and blood circulation to various body parts.

Protection of Heart

The potassium in thyme helps relax the blood vessels and lowering blood pressure. This reduces stress on the heart. It also helps to prevent heart attacks, coronary heart disease, and strokes.

Precautionary Measures

Some precautionary measures associated with the consumption of thyme are:

Thyme contains compounds that can interact with certain medications. Thymol and carvacol can interact with certain blood-thinning medications. One must consult a healthcare professional before consuming thyme.
Excessive consumption of thyme can lead to adverse effects. It should be consumed in a moderate amount.
Avoid the use of thyme in case you are allergic to it. The allergic reactions can include rash, swelling, etc.

Garlic

Garlic belongs to the Alliaceae family. It has been used worldwide in culinary practices and traditional medicines. It has been used to treat various disorders and diseases, for centuries. It has gained a special position worldwide as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent.

Bioactive Constituents in Garlic

Garlic has certain bioactive compounds in it. It includes sulfur compounds, amino acids, saponins, potassium, Vitamins A and C, fibers, proteins, phenolic compounds, sodium, calcium, magnesium, etc. These compounds contribute to human health.

Garlic and Cardiovascular Health

Management of Cholesterol

It helps in managing levels of cholesterol, thus improving cardiovascular health.

Lowering Blood Pressure

Garlic has certain compounds like allicin, which helps to lower blood pressure, in people suffering from hypertension. It also helps improving the function of the endothelium, which is crucial for blood pressure regulation.

Prevent Blood Clot Formation

It helps prevent the formation of excessive blood clots, thus reducing the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

Reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress

Garlic has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. It reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, thus improving cardiovascular health. The anti-inflammatory processes inhibit the development of atherosclerosis.

Precautionary Measures

Some precautionary measures associated with their consumption are:

Garlic can interact with certain anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, and medicines for hypertension. One must consult a healthcare professional for the safe use of garlic.
Consuming garlic in large amounts can lead to gastrointestinal issues. So, moderation is important while consuming garlic.

Turmeric

Turmeric belongs to the family of Zingiberaceae. It has potential benefits for overall human health including cardiovascular health. It has been used in various medicines.

Bioactive Constituents of Turmeric

The bioactive compounds present in turmeric are curcumin, desmethoxycurcumin, turmerones, terpenes, etc. There have been extensive studies, particularly on curcumin, because of its potential benefits on human health.

Turmeric and Cardiovascular Health

Fighting against Inflammation

Chronic inflammation can lead to various cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis. Curcumin plays a significant role in fighting inflammation. This improves cardiovascular health. Curcumin protects the heart against cardiac hypertrophy because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Reducing Oxidative Damage

Oxidative damage plays a significant role in the mechanisms of many diseases. The oxidative damage is caused by free radicals which can interact with fatty acids, DNA, or proteins, thus resulting in chronic diseases. Curcumin plays a role in blocking the action of these free radicals. This helps in improving cardiovascular health.

Improving the Function of Endothelium

Curcumin plays a role in preventing endothelial dysfunction by enhancing the production of nitric oxide. It helps in the dilation of blood vessels and maintaining the proper circulation of blood. The improvement in the function of endothelium results in better cardiovascular health.

Lowering Blood Pressure and Bad Cholesterol levels

Curcumin shows promising results in lowering blood pressure and bad levels of cholesterol. This has a positive impact on cardiovascular health.

Precautionary Measures

Some measures include:

Consulting healthcare professionals in case one is taking any medications.
High intake can result in gastrointestinal issues. Moderation is a key.
Some people might be allergic to turmeric. Proper monitoring is required to look for any adverse health condition.

Fennel

Fennel belongs to the family of Apiaceae. It is used because of its culinary and medicinal purposes. Fennel has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, and antimicrobial properties.

Bioactive Constituents of Fennel

The bioactive compounds in fennel include phenols, flavonoids, fatty acids, amino acids, etc. Due to the presence of these bioactive compounds, it offers various health benefits.

Fennel and Cardiovascular Health

Protection from Oxidative Damage

Antioxidants like flavonoids, vitamin C, and phenolic compounds help fight against oxidative stress. This improves cardiovascular health.

Lowering Cholesterol Level

The fiber in fennel helps reduce the risk of diseases associated with high cholesterol levels.

Maintaining Blood Pressure

Potassium in fennel helps maintain blood pressure. This reduces the risk of hypertension in turn improving cardiovascular health.

Precautionary Measures

Some of them are:

Fennel can potentially interact with certain medications. Consulting a healthcare professional is necessary.
Cautious intake of fennel is required in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions.

Cardamom

Cardamom belongs to the family of Zingiberaceae. It is a great source of vitamin C, potassium, niacin, magnesium, and riboflavin. Cardamom is beneficial for human health.

Bioactive Constituents of Cardamom

The bioactive compounds of cardamom are terpinene, limonene, cineol, terpinyl acetate, terpineol, etc. These bioactive compounds play a crucial role in keeping the person healthy.

Cardamom and Cardiovascular Health

Maintaining Blood Pressure

Cardamom reduces the risk of hypertension by its diuretic and antioxidant properties.

Protection Against Oxidative Stress

The antioxidants, in cardamom like flavonoids, quercetin, and limonene, help in blocking the action of free radicals. This protects against oxidative damage thus improving cardiovascular health.

Fighting Against Inflammation

Anti-inflammatory compounds in cardamom like terpinyl acetate etc. can prevent chronic inflammation. This protects the heart and vessels from damage due to inflammation.

Antithrombotic Property

Cardamom possesses antithrombotic characteristics. It prevents the production of blood clots. This is essential for reducing the risk of heart disease.

Precautionary Measures

Some of the measures are:

Consult a healthcare professional in case one is on any medication as cardamom has the potential to interact with certain medications.
One should be cautious while taking cardamom during pregnancy. A proper consultation with a healthcare professional is required.

Parsley

There are many herbs for cardiovascular health parsley is among one of them. It belongs to the family of Apiaceae. This aromatic herb is used worldwide because of its medicinal and culinary purposes. Parsley possesses antithrombotic, hypolipidemic, and antihypertensive properties.

Bioactive Constituents of Parsley

The bioactive compounds in parsley are flavonoids, phenolic compounds, vitamins, iron, magnesium, calcium, etc. They offer various health benefits.

Parsley and Cardiovascular Health

Antithrombotic Effect

Parsley contains various bioactive compounds like flavonoids, phenolic compounds, volatile oils, and coumarins, that play a role in preventing thrombosis. Thrombosis is the condition of blood clotting in venous or arterial vessels.

Antihypersensitive Effect

It is a good source of potassium. Adequate consumption of potassium is crucial for maintaining blood pressure. It reduces the risk of hypertension, which contributes to better cardiovascular health.

Hypolipidemic Activity

Parsley possesses hypolipidemic activity as it lowers the level of bad cholesterol. The bioactive compounds in parsley contribute to this activity.

Precautionary Measures

Some of them are:

Parsley can result in allergic reactions in some individuals. In case of any allergic symptoms, discontinuity is advised.
They can interact with certain medications, so consultation with the specialist is required.

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi, plays a role in improving human health. It has been used for centuries because of its neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory characteristics.

Bioactive Constituents of Bacopa monnieri

The bioactive compounds include glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, botulinic acid, etc. These bioactive compounds play a crucial role in improving human health.

Bacopa Monnieri and Cardiovascular Health

Maintaining Blood Pressure

Brahmi plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure within a healthy range. Brahmi maintains blood pressure by releasing nitric oxide which dilates blood vessels.

Improving Lipid Profile

It helps improve lipid profile by reducing the level of bad cholesterol and increasing the level of good cholesterol. This is important for cardiovascular health.

Fighting Against Inflammation and Oxidative Damage

The antioxidant in Brahmi like bacosides helps reduce oxidative stress. The anti-inflammatory properties of some bioactive compounds, help reduce the risk of chronic inflammation. This helps improve cardiovascular health.

Precautionary Measures

Some of them include:

There is evidence suggesting that it can cause allergic reactions. So, in case of any symptoms consult a healthcare professional.
They can interact with medications.

Ginkgo

Ginkgo biloba belongs to the family of Ginkgo. It exhibits a vast range of pharmacological applications such as neuroprotection, anti-inflammation, and improvement in cardiovascular health.

Bioactive Constituents of Ginkgo

It is rich in flavonoids, terpenoids, amino acids, proteins, polyphenols, polysaccharides, and other trace elements.

Ginkgo and Cardiovascular Health

Antiatherosclerotic Effect

Ginkgo biloba possesses an antiatherosclerosis effect. The flavonoids and terpenoids help in anti-inflammation and reducing oxidative stress. Ginkgo improves blood flow, enhances the function of the endothelial lining, and inhibits the aggregation of platelets, this helps against atherosclerosis.

Lipid Regulation

It regulates the metabolism of lipids, promoting an increase in good cholesterol and a decrease in bad cholesterol.

Protection Against Oxidative Stress

The antioxidants help neutralize free radicals. Thus, Ginkgo biloba plays a role in protecting against oxidative stress.

Precautionary Measures

Some of the precautions associated with Ginkgo biloba are:

It can result in bleeding in patients with bleeding disorders. Thus, consultation is important.
Individuals suffering from low blood pressure must be cautious while consuming Ginkgo biloba.
The instructions from a healthcare professional for the amount of dosage are essential.

Olive Leaf

Bioactive Constituents of Olive Leaf

Olive leaf contain various bioactive constituents like oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, verbascoside, flavonoids, triterpenoids, etc. They possess certain anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. They have numerous health benefits like improved cardiovascular health, digestion benefits, a healthy immune system, etc.

Olive Leaf and Cardiovascular Health

Improving Endothelial Function

Oleuropein helps to improve the function of the endothelial lining by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. It improves blood circulation and relaxes the blood vessels, by promoting the production of nitric oxide.

Lowering Blood Pressure

The bioactive compounds in olive leaves help to lower blood pressure.

Protection from Cardiovascular Diseases

Olive leaves help against various cardiovascular diseases. This is done by various mechanisms like preventing inflammation and improving endothelial functions. It protects against atherosclerosis and hypertension.

Precautionary Measures

It includes:

Potential interaction of olive leaf with medications. Consultation with a healthcare professional is required.
Follow the instructions of healthcare professionals for the amount of dosage

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