Herbs That Protect And Heal The Heart
The human heart is only the size of a fist and yet this hard-working organ pumps blood to the entire body even against gravity. The importance of a healthy heart cannot be overstressed – yet we engage in lifestyles that are very damaging to it. Build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries and weakening of heart muscles are some causes for heart disease.
The good news is that heart disease can be treated and prevented. A high fiber, low fat, low cholesterol and low sodium diet coupled with physical activity go a long way in promoting heart health. Nature has also provided many herbs that help to protect and heal the heart
Arjuna is the foremost herb recommended by Ayurvedic medicine for heart health. The bark of the Arjuna tree contains Coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinone. This bioenzyme is considered very beneficial for strengthening heart muscles, relieving angina pain, preventing heart attacks and normalizing the heart rythm. Arjuna also contains compounds including §-sitosterol, ellagic acid and arjunic acid which help to lower cholesterol and high blood pressure
Ashwagandha is known for reducing high blood pressure, stress and improving physical fitness. It slows down the circulation of adrenaline which can tear heart muscles. Ashwagandha also reduces plasma cortisol, which impairs heart health. It is an adaptogenic that strengthens and gives more flexibility to heart muscles.
Guggul is the best known herb for lowering cholesterol levels. It lowers LDL levels while raising HDL levels. Guggul helps prevent atherosclerosis or fatty plaque build up in arteries and blood vessel tissues. Guggulsterones may also help keep the heart muscle itself healthy. When there is lack of oxygen, free radicals can severely damage the heart – a condition known as “myocardial ischemia”. The body tries to prevent this with SOD, an enzyme that neutralizes free radicals. Damaged heart tissues have very low levels of SOD. Guggulsterones have been found to reverse this decrease in SOD.
Abana is an ayurvedic formulation that contains the above herbs along with more than 40 other herbs and minerals designed to protect and heal heart disorders. In addition to Arjuna, Guggul and Ashwagandha, Abana from Himalaya Herbals contains Shankapushpi, Calmint, Guduchi, Shilajit and others.
