Numerous herbs may help treat angina, or heart-related chest pain. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, or NHLBI, angina is chest pain or discomfort that manifests where a portion of the heart muscle does not receive sufficient amounts of oxygenated blood. The NHLBI states that angina may feel like pressure or squeezing in the chest. Certain herbs may help prevent angina or decrease angina-related symptoms. A person interested in taking herbs for angina should first consult a qualified health care professional for possible side effects and proper dosage.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn may be an effective herb for the treatment of angina. According to PCC Natural Markets' Health Notes, hawthorn, also known as Crataegus laevigata or Crataegus monogyna, is an herb commonly found in Europe, western Asia, North America and North Africa. Modern medicinal extracts usually incorporate the leaves and flowers of the hawthorn tree, whereas traditional preparations use the fruit. PCC Natural Markets states that parts of the hawthorn tree contain flavonoids, which decrease the likelihood of blood vessel damage. Consuming hawthorn extract may improve angina patients' heart function and ability to exercise. A dosage of 60 mg of an herbal extract that contains 18.75 percent oligomeric procyanidins taken three times per day is recommended by PCC Natural Markets. A person interested in taking hawthorn extract for angina should consult a qualified health care provider to understand the possible side effects associated with this herb.
Cactus
Cactus, also known as Selenicereus grandiflorus, may be effective for treating angina. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that cactus can be used as a diuretic, cardiac stimulant and spinal and motor nerve stimulant. Tilgner states that the principle action of cactus is upon the circular muscle fibers of the heart and arterioles, or tiny arteries, and that cactus is beneficial for cardiac incompetence, congestive heart failure, cardiac weakness, mitral insufficiency and angina. The succulent stem is the part of the cactus used for treating heart-related conditions. Care should be exercised when taking cactus, as an overdose may cause rapid and erratic heartbeat, the sensation of chest constriction, carditis, pericarditis, confusion, headaches, vertigo and gastrointestinal symptoms. Cactus should only be used under the guidance of a trained health care practitioner.
Khella
Khella, also known as Ammi visnaga, may help treat angina. According to PCC Natural Markets' Health Notes, khella, a member of the parsley family, is an African plant that contains spasm-relieving compounds, including khellin. In early studies, purified khellin demonstrated an ability to relieve angina-related symptoms, although it is unknown whether the whole herb would have similar effects. Tilgner states that khella improves blood supply to the myocardium, or heart muscle, and increases efficiency of myocardial metabolism--two factors that could decrease angina-related pain or discomfort. Khella is often used to treat mild forms of angina, mild obstructive pulmonary disease and various problems of the urinary tract. According to PCC Natural Markets, a person with angina should consult a health practitioner trained in botanical medicine for possible side effects of khella before taking this herb.
