Counted among the most popular herbal blends, heart health blends tend to be much more effective than single herbs. They are primarily formulated to lower cholesterol, strengthen the heart muscle, and balance blood pressure but may also contain herbs that support health in other ways.
Herbal Blends, Heart Health Naturally
There are so many herbal blends for heart health on the market today that it can be daunting to choose among them all. It is important to buy a quality blend from a company that has been in business for a while. Some excellent herbal companies are:
- NOW
- Trilight
- Gaia
- Source Naturals
- Biotech
- Country Life
- Enzymatic Therapy
- Spectrum
There are many others, of course. You will generally pay more for herbal blends from these companies but the quality that you get is well worth it. Do not try to save money where your health is involved.
Some herbal blends for heart health are:
These are not recommendations but only examples of what is available. It is important that you choose a formula for your specific needs and with the support of your doctor or naturopath.
Ingredients Found in Herbal Blends
Each ingredient in a heart health blend is carefully added to react in a synergistic way with the other substances in the blend. You cannot, for example, just randomly pick up several single herbs that are found in a blend and take them together. The proportions would be off and the results would not be as predictable or effective. The following are some of the most popular herbs used in herbal heart blends.
Herbs for Heart Regulation and Rhythm
These herbs are important for strengthening the heart muscle and keeping it beating at regular intervals. They are a rich source of trace minerals.
- Alfalfa
- Borage
- Horsetail
- Nettle
- Pau d' Arco
Herbs for Regulation and Stress
The following herbs help to regulate the heart beat and promote a feelling of calm. Stressful situations can cause the heart to race or beat in an irregular pattern. The following herbs reduce stress and help relax the body.
- Black cohosh
- Oat straw
- Passionflower
- Valerian root
- Skullcap
- Wood betony
Herbs that Strengthen Muscle Cells
The following herbs help to strengthen the heart muscle but do not necessarily regulate the beat.
- Hawthorn berries
- Butcher's broom
- Motherwort
- Red sage
Herbs that Strengthen Muscle and Reduce Chest Pain
It is very important that if you are taking a prescription blood thinner like Coumadin that you do not take Ginkgo without consulting your doctor. Ginkgo can react with blood thinners and increase the chances of severe bleeding.
- Cayenne
- Ginger
- Ginkgo biloba
Angina Management
Angina pain is severe and comes on suddenly for no apparent reason. It is not dangerous but is a symptom of other heart problems that can be dangerous.These herbs can help keep it at bay:
- Gotu kola
- Primrose
- Rosemary
Other Herbs
Other herbs may be included in the blend. Some of the more common ones are:
- Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory that also helps lower cholesterol.
- Green tea has a high number of antioxidants. It is important to talk to your doctor if you are on blood thinners for a clotting disorder before you take green tea in capsule form. In this strength it contains high amounts of vitamin K which promotes clotting.
- Cordyceps is a Chinese herb that lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and blood pressure.
- Grape seed extract reduces clotting and is a strong antioxidant.
- Garlic promotes circulation, strengthens heart muscle, and helps to reduce high blood pressure.
Besides these herbs there are many nutritional supplements that can be part of herbal blends. Heart health requires the body to be in top condition and have access to good nutrition. Generally the nutritional substances will be things like:
- Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Chromium
- Vitamin B
- Zinc
There are many others. Each manufacturer will choose a different blend, in different proportions, for different reasons.
Herbal blends, heart formulas or any other type of supplement are not a substitute for eating a healthy diet, following a good exercise plan, and consulting with your health care provider.
