Coronary heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease, occurs when the arteries that transport blood to your heart muscle narrow. The National Center for Biotechnology Information says that coronary heart disease is most commonly caused by atherosclerosis, which is an accumulation of substances -- collectively known as plaque -- on your arterial walls. Certain herbs may be helpful in treating coronary heart disease. However, meet with your doctor to discuss the safety and effectiveness of herbs before using this treatment method.
Coronary Heart Disease
If your coronary arteries are narrowed or partially blocked, the amount of blood reaching your heart will be reduced. Decreased coronary blood flow often causes angina, or chest pain. The National Health Service of the United Kingdom states that the total blockage of one of your coronary arteries can cause a heart attack, or myocardial infarction. The amount of damage your heart sustains depends on which artery is affected. Chest pressure, shortness of breath and feelings of dread are among the most common symptoms of heart attack.
Herbal Treatments
In "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," naturopathic physician Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr. states that several remedies may be helpful in treating coronary heart disease, including guggul, garlic and onion. Hawthorn may also be helpful in treating this condition. These herbs, says Pizzorno, may be particularly effective at combating atherosclerosis and plaque accumulation. A 2006 study published by Carmia Borek in the journal "American Society for Nutrition" states that there is compelling evidence in favor of the beneficial effects of antioxidant-rich aged garlic extract in reducing the likelihood of cardiovascular disease, although further study is warranted in humans.
A Helpful Herb
Hawthorn may be a helpful herb in treating or preventing coronary heart disease. Naturopathic physician and herbalist Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that hawthorn may be helpful in maintaining healthy blood vessels by improving the integrity of their connective tissue structures and endothelial, or inner, lining. Increased connective tissue integrity may help protect your blood vessels from disease, vascular injury and the negative effects of aging. Hawthorn may be used as an infusion or as a liquid extract.
Warning
In some cases, you may have coronary heart disease but not experience any symptoms. Some people do not realize they have this condition until they suffer a devastating cardiovascular insult, such as a heart attack or heart failure. If you do experience symptoms that may be attributed to coronary heart disease, schedule an appointment with your physician as soon as possible. Review possible treatment methods with your doctor, including the use of herbal remedies for your condition.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Coronary Heart Disease
- National Health Service: Heart Disease
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., N.D.; 2002
- "American Society for Nutrition"; Garlic Reduces Dementia and Heart-Disease Risk; Carmia Borek; March 2006
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
