Circulatory

20 May 2023

Global Herbal Remedies for Circulatory Health

The circulatory system, composed of the heart, blood vessels, and blood, plays a crucial role in delivering oxygen and nutrients to the body's cells, tissues, and organs. As such, maintaining its health is of utmost importance. Around the world, various cultures have historically turned to herbal remedies to support circulatory health. Here, we explore some of these medicinal plants and their scientific backing.

1. Garlic (Allium sativum): Revered in many cultures for its health-promoting properties, garlic has been studied for its potential to manage heart disease risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A meta-analysis by Ried et al. (2008) demonstrated a significant reduction in blood pressure in individuals with hypertension who consumed garlic.

2. Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna): Used traditionally in European herbal medicine, hawthorn is believed to support heart health. A Cochrane Review (2010) highlighted that hawthorn extract showed benefit in symptoms of chronic heart failure.

3. Ginkgo biloba: This ancient plant, native to China, has been used for centuries to address circulatory disorders. A study by Kudolo (2001) suggested that regular ginkgo intake might improve blood flow and circulation.

4. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Famous in Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, turmeric's active compound curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can benefit the heart. A review by Wongcharoen & Phrommintikul (2009) suggested that curcumin might help prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases.

5. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Another staple in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, ginger has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiplatelet properties. A study by Bordia et al. (1997) suggested that ginger could lower cholesterol and prevent blood clotting.

6. Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum annuum): Used traditionally in Native American medicine and Ayurveda, cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which has been shown to improve circulation and lower blood pressure. A study by McCarty et al. (2015) showed capsaicin's beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.

These are just a few examples of the many plants used worldwide to support circulatory health. While herbal remedies can be part of a heart-healthy lifestyle, they should not replace conventional medical care. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or supplement regimen.

References:

• Ried, K., Frank, O. R., Stocks, N. P., Fakler, P., & Sullivan, T. (2008). Effect of garlic on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC cardiovascular disorders, 8(1), 1-8.
• Pittler, M. H., Guo, R., & Ernst, E. (2008). Hawthorn extract for treating chronic heart failure. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1).
• Kudolo, G. B. (2001). The effect of 3-month ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract on pancreatic beta-cell function in response to glucose loading in normal glucose tolerant individuals. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 41(6), 600-611.
• Wongcharoen, W., & Phrommintikul, A. (2009). The protective role of curcumin in cardiovascular diseases. International journal of cardiology, 133(2), 145-151.
• Bordia, A., Verma, S. K., & Srivastava, K. C. (1997). Effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum L.) on blood lipids, blood sugar and platelet aggregation in patients with coronary artery disease. Prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and essential fatty acids, 56(5), 379-384.
• McCarty, M. F., DiNicolantonio, J. J., & O'Keefe, J. H. (2015). Capsaicin may have important potential for promoting vascular and metabolic health. Open Heart, 2(1), e000262.
• Deka, A., & Vita, J. A. (2011). Tea and cardiovascular disease. Pharmacological research, 64(2), 136-145.
• Zhou, L., Zuo, Z., & Chow, M. S. (2005). Danshen: an overview of its chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical use. The Journal of clinical pharmacology, 45(12), 1345-1359.