Home Remedies for Heart Disease

Heart disease refers to numerous problems that affect the structure and functions of the heart. It is most often related to atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup in arterial walls, that causes narrowing of the arteries, thereby inhibiting blood flow and increasing the risk for a heart attack or stroke.
Heart disease can include issues like coronary artery disease, congenital heart disease, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), heart failure, heart valve problems and others. The causes and symptoms vary depending on the type of heart disease. Yet, some common symptoms are shortness of breath, chest pain, slow or racing heartbeat, lightheadedness, fatigue and fainting.
The causes and symptoms vary depending on the type of heart disease. Yet, some common symptoms are shortness of breath, chest pain, slow or racing heartbeat, lightheadedness, fatigue and fainting. When dealing with heart disease, it is essential to consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Plus, you can use some home remedies and make healthy lifestyle changes to improve your heart health. Some of these remedies though may interfere with certain prescription drug or may not be suitable for some cases. So, seek the advice of a healthcare professional before taking these herbs and remedies.
Garlic
Several studies have found garlic to be beneficial for conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and coronary heart disease. It helps slow the development of atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. Plus, garlic improves circulation and has antithrombotic and antiplatelet aggregatory effects. Eat one or two freshly crushed garlic cloves daily. If you find the taste too strong, drink a glass of milk after eating the garlic. Alternatively, you can take garlic supplements. The general recommendation is 600 to 1,200 mg of garlic extract divided into three equal doses per day. Note: Garlic may interfere with certain medications due to its blood-thinning properties. Consult your doctor before taking this herb.
Hawthorn
In western herbalism, hawthorn is a well-known herb for heart conditions because it is excellent for the cardiovascular system. It helps increase blood flow to the heart and improves cardiac muscle contractions, thus leading to a stronger pumping action. It also helps increase cardiac performance and output, and reduces the heart’s workload. Plus, it has an anti-arrhythmic effect that helps steady the heartbeat. You can take this herb in supplement form by way of an extract standardized to contain about 2 to 3 percent flavonoids. The general dosage is 300 to 600 mg three times daily. Follow this natural treatment for several weeks to a few months. Note: Though this herb is safe to use, consult your doctor before taking this or any other herbal remedy.
Arjuna
Terminalia arjuna is an important Ayurvedic herb for heart conditions. It is considered a natural cardio-tonic and cardiac restorative. The herb strengthens the cardiac muscle, reduces arterial congestion and lowers blood pressure. A study by researchers at Kasturba Medical College in India found that this herb helped reduce angina attacks by 30 percent. Moreover, prolonged use of this herb did not have any adverse effects. Add one-half teaspoon of arjuna tree bark powder and a little honey to a glass of warm water. Drink this three times daily for a few months. Alternatively, you can take this herb in supplement form in doses of 500 mg every eight hours daily. Continue this natural treatment for three months.