If you've been told that you have clogged arteries, you are probably wondering what your options are. Clogged arteries are no joke, and should be taken seriously. A clog in an artery can lead to a heart attack or a stroke. Several natural remedies can help clean out your arteries, or you can add them to your diet as a preventative measure. Before adding any herbs to your regimen, be sure to discuss them with your doctor first, especially if you are already taking medications for your heart. Many of these herbs have the same properties as the medications you may be taking, and taking too much could cause serious side effects.
Ginkgo Biloba
While ginkgo biloba is frequently recommended to help stimulate memory, many are unaware of its cardiovascular properties. A recent study showed that ginkgo biloba can help lower the risk of blocked arteries in the legs, although it has not been shown specifically to prevent a heart attack or a stroke, according to "NewsMax Health." It is believed that ginkgo biloba works in a similar manner as aspirin, and prevents platelets from clumping and making clots that block arteries. Ginkgo biloba is available in capsule or tablet form.
Hawthorn
People have been treating heart disease with hawthorn for millennia. In addition to helping treat hardening of the arteries, hawthorn also helps with arrhythmias, hypertension, chest pain and heart failure. It's believed that the circulatory benefits of hawthorn come from the high levels of antioxidants in the plant, such as quercetin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Generally, the leaves and flowers are used, as they contain higher concentrations of flavonoids, which are antioxidants, than berries. Hawthorn is usually available as loose leaves that can be brewed as tea.
Cayenne Pepper
The active chemical in cayenne pepper, called capsaicin, has a number of positive medicinal effects, including the ability to help cardiovascular conditions. Research has shown that capsaicin is effective at preventing the formation of arterial plaque, by preventing the oxidation of cholesterol, according to an article in the journal "Artery" in 1985. Additionally, cayenne peppers are believed to have as many antioxidants as vitamin C, improving the body's health by stopping the process of damaged cells and allowing arterial flexibility, which allows arteries to expand as needed to allow more blood through the arteries. Cayenne can be added directly to food and is also available in capsule form.
Garlic
Garlic is an antiseptic and can help prevent and treat infections. Garlic prevents cholesterol from oxidizing, which keeps it from clogging up the arteries. Additionally, garlic stimulates nitric oxide production in the blood vessel, which loosens the blood and increases blood flow, thus reducing plaque and cholesterol build up in the arteries. Garlic can be eaten raw, for the best effect, and is also available as tablets or capsules.
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