Numerous herbs may be helpful in slowing your heart rate. According to MayoClinic.com, a typical adult resting heart rate -- the number of times your hearts beats in one minute while you are at rest -- is 60 to 100 beats per minute. Many factors can increase your resting heart rate, including stress and anxiety. Certain herbs are sedatives, or calming substances, that may help lower your heart rate. Before taking herbs to help lower your heart rate, talk with your doctor about possible side effects, proper dosage and potential drug interactions.
Lavender
Lavender, also known as Lavandula angustifolia, is an herb that may be helpful in slowing your heart rate. A member of the mint family, lavender is a plant native to the Mediterranean region. Lavender has a bitter taste and cooling and drying tendencies. The flowers of the plant are used medicinally to help treat numerous health problems, including an elevated heart rate that is associated with anxiety or restlessness. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that lavender is a spasmolytic, anti-inflammatory and sedative for nervous exhaustion. Tilgner notes that, if you are pregnant, you should only use this herb under the care and guidance of a qualified health care professional. Meet with your doctor before taking lavender to discuss possible side effects, proper dosage and potential drug interactions.
Kava Kava
Kava kava is an herbal remedy that may be beneficial in reducing your heart rate. Also known as Piper methysticum, kava kava is a tall shrub native to the islands of the Pacific Ocean. It is a member of the piperaceae family and possesses a sharp, pungent taste. The roots of the plant are used for medicinal purposes. According to Dr. Michael T. Murray, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "The Healing Power of Herbs," the principal pharmacologically active ingredients in kava kava are called kavalactones. Tilgner notes that kava kava is a sedative and hypnotic that has been used to help reduce stress and anxiety, insomnia, muscle tension and asthma. Because this herb is a sedative, it may help slow your elevated heart rate. Consult with your physician before taking kava kava to discuss appropriate dosage, possible side effects and potential drug interactions.
Valerian
Valerian, also known as Valeriana officinalis, is an herb that may be effective in lowering your heart rate. Valerian is a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, although it also grows in North America. It belongs to the Valerianaceae family, has a sweet and spicy taste and possesses slightly warming tendencies. Practitioners of botanical medicine use the root of this plant to help treat health complaints, including fast heart rate. Ed Smith, an herbalist and author of the book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," states that valerian is a calmative and relaxing sedative that helps reduce stress, anxiety, nervousness, agitation and irritability, which in turn may help lower your heart rate and improve your long-term health. Consult your doctor for medical clearance before taking valerian to lower your heart rate.
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