- Make It Yourself Lavender Heart-Shaped Bath Bombs!
- 20 Things You Never Knew About “Down There”
- 12 Best Foods For Those Suffering From Arthritis Pain
- 12 Personal Hygiene Mistakes Almost Everyone Makes (Mom Never Told You About #4!)
- 15 Medicinal Plants And Herbs From The Cherokee People
- 12 Mind-Blowing Benefits Of Drinking Coconut Water During Pregnancy
- 12 Outstanding Winter Foods That Won’t Fatten You Up Like A Christmas Turkey
15 of the Best Herbs and Spices for a Healthy Heart (#10 is Little Weird)
Photo credit: bigstock.com
4. Hawthorn
Hawthorn is another herb that is well-known for its heart-healthy benefits. Hawthorn dilates the blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure levels. It also improves cardiac muscle contractions, lessening palpitations and giving you an overall stronger heartbeat. It increases blood flow to the heart and its anti-arrhythmic effect steadies the heartbeat. Researchers doing a review of clinical trials in the 2010 Pharmacology Review found that hawthorn was a safe, nontoxic, and very effective herb for the treatment of ischemic heart disease and cardiovascular disease. Hawthorn might react with other medications, so speak to your doctor first about whether or not hawthorn is right for you and what the best dosage would be for your situation.
5. Cayenne
The active ingredient in cayenne is capsaicin, which is a powerful antioxidant with the potential to fight oxidation, prevent blood clots, and dilate blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure. All of these things are important for a healthy heart. Cayenne can also increase the metabolism and help with weight loss. You can take capsaicin supplements of between 2,000 and 4,000 IUs every other day. You should always consult your doctor first. Cayenne should never be taken in excess as it can cause complications.
6. Cinnamon
This common spice has a lot to offer those who are looking for protection from heart disease. Cinnamon can inhibit the release of the fatty acids that cause inflammation of platelet membranes in the blood. This can help to keep the blood at a proper thickness, which can lower blood pressure. Cinnamon also helps to lower the bad (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood as well, making it super heart healthy! Who doesn’t love the taste of cinnamon, right? Drink cinnamon tea, spread some in your oatmeal, and add half a teaspoon to your morning coffee. If you are taking prescription blood thinners, talk to your doctor first.
Continue to Page 3
