Palpitations are sensations that the heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, pounding or racing. They may be felt in the chest, throat or neck. Palpitations may be triggered by strong emotions, vigorous exercise, certain medications, caffeine, some drugs or an underlying medical condition. Palpitations are common, and in most cases they are harmless; however, palpitations can also signal a health concern that should be evaluated by a qualified health care provider. Several herbs are traditionally used to help alleviate palpitations. For information on personalized herbal combinations, forms, safety and dosage, a botanically-trained health care practitioner, such as a licensed naturopathic physician, should be consulted.
Motherwort
Motherwort is known by the Latin name Leonurus cardiaca, and it is a member of the Lamiaceae or mint family. The plant is native to central Asia but now grows ubiquitously. It has a square stem and small pink flowers. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," one of motherwort's specific uses is to strengthen the heart. It can be used for palpitations that result from nervousness and stress. Motherwort may also help individuals experiencing restlessness and disturbed sleep from emotional or physical ailments of the heart. The herb has a bitter taste and it may be ingested as a tea, tincture or liquid extract. Dr. Tilgner cautions that mortherwort can stimulate the uterus and should therefore not be taken during pregnancy.
Hawthorne
Hawthorne, also spelled hawthorn and known by its Latin name Crataegus, is a flowering shrub in the Rosaceae or rose family. Hawthorne is classically known for its benefits to a wide range of heart and circulatory ailments. Natural Standard, an authoritative database of integrative medicine, states that hawthorne's historical use in cadiovascular disease dates back to the first century. Clinical studies verify hawthorne's efficacy specifically in treating congestive heart failure. Other historical uses for hawthorn include the treatment of arteriosclerosis, irregular heartbeat and anxiety. Dr. Tilgner suggests hawthorne for irritable, nervous heart conditions, where there is rapid and feeble heart action. The herb works by nourishing the heart and blood vessels and improving general cardiac function. The flowers, leaves and berries are used medicinally.
Bugleweed
Bugleweed, also called Lycopus, is a bitter tasting herb in the Laminaceae or mint family. According to Dr. Tilgner, bugleweed specifically influences the lungs and heart. It is beneficial for a rapid or irregular heartbeat, especially when it coincides with sleep difficulties. Bugleweed is also classically used in conditions of overactive thyroid, where palpitations are a typical symptom. Bugleweed should not be used in cases of under-active thyroid, also called hypothyroidism, nor should it be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Passionflower
Passionflower's Latin name is Passiflora incarnata, and it grows throughout Europe and the southeast Americas. It's a climbing vine with beautiful white and blueish-purple flowers. Passionflower has historical use for anxiety and insomnia. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that passionflower may help relieve anxiety by increasing the levels of GABA -- a calming neurotransmitter -- in the brain. Dr. Tilgner recommends passionflower for heart palpitations that are due to nervousness, especially when accompanied by restlessness and exhaustion. The herb has a bland taste, and may be taken as a tea, tincture or liquid extract. Passionflower, like all herbs, can have side effects and interact with medications, so it should be used under the guidance of a botanical medicine expert.
References
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: What Are Palpitations?
- "Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- Natural Standard: Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata, C. oxyacantha, C. monogyna, C. pentagyna)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Passionflower
