Cholesterol is a waxy substance in the blood. Two kinds of lipoproteins carry cholesterol throughout the body. LDL, or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is a "bad" type of cholesterol. A high level of LDL cholesterol can clog arteries and dramatically increase the chance of developing heart disease and stroke. Herbs and spices make food tasty and they are also rich in antioxidants that inhibit LDL cholesterol from oxidation, thereby reducing the risk of heart attacks.
Wild Yam
Wild yam refers to a family of perennial vine, endemic to North America. Their roots and rootstock, also called rhizomes, are used in herbal remedies. Wild yam extract may be useful in promoting healthy circulation by lowering LDL cholesterol levels. Wild yam contains a chemical diosgenin, which is a plant form of estrogen. This plant hormone accounts for the cholesterol-lowering effects of wild yam.
Hawthorn
Hawthorns are small, deciduous trees. Extracts from the leaves and flowers of the hawthorn have long been used in the treatment of coronary heart disease. It has been found to be beneficial in the treatment of circulatory disorders such as high LDL cholesterol and hypertension. Wild yam is also of interest because it contains higher levels of antioxidants, which act as free radical scavengers, preventing damage to arterial cells. This contributes to maintenance of heart health.
Guggul
Guggul is an herbal medicine widely used in Ayurveda in the treatment of LDL, or "bad" cholesterol. At the same time, it also maintains or improves the HDL cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol. Guggul exerts cholesterol-lowering effects by increasing the liver's metabolism of LDL cholesterol.
References
- The Franklin Institute: Hypertension
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: High Cholesterol
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Wild Yam
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hawthorn
- New Jersey Medical School: Three Dietary Supplements and Herbs for Cholesterol Lowering -- One Potentially Good, One Undocumented, One Probably No Good
