Heart failure is a chronic condition that occurs when the heart does not function properly. It is usually caused by high blood pressure or heart disease, conditions that thicken or stiffen heart muscle, making it less able to pump blood efficiently. Adjusting your lifestyle by, for example, quitting smoking, taking regular exercise, losing weight and cutting your salt intake may help to alleviate symptoms and help keep your condition under control. Your doctor may also prescribe drugs to dilate your blood vessels and help your heart to pump blood around the body. Some herbs may also help to improve heart function, but you should get medical advice before using them.
Hawthorn
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that the flowers and berries of the hawthorn plant are a traditional alternative remedy for a number of cardiovascular conditions including high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and heart failure. There is some evidence that the hawthorn leaf and flower may be an effective treatment for mild forms of heart failure, although study data is conflicting, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states. Short-term use of hawthorn is likely safe for most adults, but it may cause an upset stomach and headache. This herbal remedy may interact with heart medicines you may be taking, so get medical clearance before using it.
Goldenseal
The herb goldenseal contains a compound known as berberine that, according to UMMC, may dilate blood vessels and improve heart function. Combining berberine with prescription heart failure medicines may also improve quality of life, UMMC adds. Single-dose use of goldenseal is likely safe, but whether long-term use is safe is unclear. Do not take this herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This herb may interact with several drugs including medicines that are modified by the liver such as lovastatin and triazolam. Ask your doctor whether it is safe for you to incorporate goldenseal into your treatment program.
Green Tea
Findings from a study published in the May 2003 issue of "Kidney International" show that green tea may attenuate hypertension, a major cause of heart failure. The study's authors, S. Pryadarshi and colleagues from the Medical College of Ohio, also note that this herb may also prevent thickening of the heart muscle. However, the study was carried out in rats, not humans. Green tea is likely safe, Medline Plus notes, but you may experience side effects including nervousness, headache, nausea and insomnia if you drink more than 5 cups a day. This herb is contraindicated in a number of conditions, so get advice from your doctor before using it.
