Heart palpitations are increased or "racing" heart rhythms not related to physical exercise, that are often accompanied by shortness of breath, fatigue and anxiety. Palpitations can be triggered by stressful situations that increase adrenalin production, dietary stimulants such as caffeine and medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism. In traditional Chinese medicine, palpitations are also seen to arise from energy imbalances blocking the heart meridian. Herbal remedies can help regulate heart rhythms, although any symptoms related to the heart should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Chinese Red Sage
Chinese red sage, also called dan shen or root of Salvia militorrhiza, is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to relieve many symptoms of the heart, including angina pains and heart palpitations, according to "Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica." Chinese red sage can reduce blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which reduces blockages and improves circulation.
Ginkgo Biloba
The herbal extract of ginkgo biloba has strong antioxidant and vasodilating properties. Vasodilation, or relaxing of the blood vessels, reduces blood pressure, which reduces strain on your heart. According to "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine," ginkgo biloba also inhibits clumping of platelet cells within the bloodstream and increases the rate of peripheral and cerebral blood flow during heart rhythm irregularities. Ginkgo is used as a general cardiovascular tonic and is useful for conditions such as arterial insufficiency, ischemic heart disease and peripheral vascular disease. However, ginkgo is not a cure for heart disease and cardiovascular symptoms require medical consultation.
Biota Seeds
Biota seeds, or bai zi ren, are from slow-growing Chinese biota trees. In traditional Chinese medicine, biota seeds are connected primarily with the heart and digestive system and used as a sedative tonic, according to "The Way of Chinese Herbs." Biota seeds are effective for insomnia and anxiety, as they produce sensations of relaxation, which can reduce overactive heart rhythms.
Albizia Bark
Albizia bark, or Mimosa tree bark, is used in traditional Chinese medicine to affect the heart and liver energy meridians of the body. Albizia bark is thought to invigorate the blood, increase circulation, reduce swelling and pain, calm the spirit and tranquilize the mind. Albizia bark is a good anti-anxiety remedy, which reduces the production of adrenaline within the body and normalizes heart rhythm, as cited by "The Way of Chinese Herbs."
References
- "Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica"; Dan Bensky et al.; 2004
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "The Way of Chinese Herbs"; Michael Tierra; 2008
