Ventricular heart problems occur when your heart's ventricles, the larger chambers of your heart, are unable to pump a sufficient amount of blood to the rest of your body. Ventricular heart problems, more commonly known as heart failure, are a common problem in American adults. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute states that approximately 5.7 million Americans have this condition. Certain herbs may be helpful in treating your ventricular heart problem, although herbs should always be cleared with your physician before using them for this health purpose.
Heart Failure
Numerous health problems and factors may cause heart failure. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, possible causes of this condition include coronary artery disease, infections that weaken your cardiac muscle, congenital heart disease, heart valve problems, cardiac arrhythmias or abnormal heart rate and rhythm and heart attack. Commonly experienced signs and symptoms associated with ventricular heart problems may include swelling in certain parts of your body, difficulty breathing, fatigue, weakness, coughing and irregular heart rate.
Beneficial Herbs
Numerous herbs may be beneficial in treating your ventricular heart problems. In his book "The Natural Pharmacy," medical doctor Alan R. Gaby states that berberine -- a substance found in goldenseal, barberry and Oregon grape -- may help improve heart function and reduce irregular heartbeats in people with heart failure. Other beneficial herbs for this health purpose may include hawthorn, coleus and foxglove. A larger body of scientific research evidence may be needed to verify the true health benefits of these herbal remedies.
Herb in Focus
Foxglove may be one of the most helpful herbal remedies in treating your ventricular heart pumping problem. Foxglove, also known as Digitalis purpurea, has long been used as a cardiac remedy. According to naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," foxglove helps stimulate the contractile ability of your heart. This herbal remedy has also historically been used in treating cardiac arrhythmias, or irregular heart rate.
Disclaimer
Ventricular heart problems should always be treated by a qualified healthcare practitioner, such as a cardiologist. Avoid using natural therapies, such as botanical medicine, in treating this health problem until you have met with your primary care provider to discuss the ramifications of this healing approach. Herbs should be treated with the same degree of caution and respect given to pharmaceutical drugs. Some herbal remedies may not be appropriate for you, and herbs should always be used under a licensed healthcare provider.
References
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Heart Failure
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Heart Failure
- "The Natural Pharmacy"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
