Small steps can make a significant impact on your wellness journey! Along with a healthy lifestyle, incorporating heart-healthy herbs can support your cardiovascular system and overall well-being. education 9 Herbs to Help Support a Healthy and Happy Heart Published on April 04, How Can You Make Your Heart Stronger Naturally?

REF While herbs and supplements can provide numerous benefits, it is crucial to understand the potential risks and ensure that they do not counteract medication or pre-existing medical conditions.

Hawthorn Hawthorn Crataegus is a large genus of shrubs and trees in the Rosaceae family. REF Gaia Herbs offers herbal products containing Hawthorn, such as our Hawthorn Supreme Capsules , Hawthorn Supreme Extract , and Turmeric Supreme Heart Health.

Turmeric A spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, Turmeric Curcuma longa contains the active ingredient Curcumin, which has potent soothing and antioxidant properties that may benefit heart health.

REF Curcumin can help soothe scar tissue, support healthy heart tissue, and support the heart wall's thickness, which is vital for maintaining proper heart function. REF Turmeric reduces irritation in the heart tissue , supporting overall heart health. REF Gaia Herbs Turmeric Supreme Heart Health combines Turmeric with other herbal extracts to support healthy cardiovascular function.

REF Gaia Herbs' Green Tea for Energy Support harnesses the benefits of certified Organic Green Tea leaves extracted and concentrated to provide the full spectrum of natural phytochemicals in green tea leaves.

REF The antioxidants in Olive Leaf may help support heart health by protecting the body from free radical damage. Hibiscus Hibiscus Hibiscus sabdariffa is a genus of the Malvaceae or Mallow family. REF Hibiscus has numerous cardiovascular benefits. REF Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants and has soothing properties, which can protect the heart and support healthy blood clotting.

REF Served hot or over ice, brighten any day with our delightful Organic Hibiscus Herbal Tea. Garlic Recognized for its numerous health benefits, Garlic Allium sativum contains compounds such as allicin, which have antioxidant and soothing properties.

REF Ginseng Traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its potential health benefits, Ginseng Panax ginseng is believed to have protective effects on the cardiovascular system. REF Gaia Herbs' Ginseng Supreme supplement is a high-quality blend of ginseng, including American Ginseng, Eleuthero , and Asian Ginseng, to support stamina and vitality.

Ginger Ginger Zingiber officinale is a flowering plant used for centuries in traditional medicine. REF Ginger can significantly support healthy blood triglyceride levels and blood pressure levels, as well as support overall heart function. REF Gaia Herbs Ginger Supreme is a high-quality supplement that supports a healthy immune response, digestive and cardiovascular health, and circulation.

REF One study found that taking cinnamon supplements for 12 weeks contributed to healthy blood triglyceride levels, a significant risk factor for heart disease.

REF In a meta-analysis of clinical trials, individuals who took cinnamon had healthier cholesterol levels compared to those who received a placebo. REF Gaia Herbs Cinnamon Bark supplement is made from pure, organic cinnamon and can support healthy glucose and lipid metabolism.

Featured Products Best Seller. Featured Products. Best Seller. Tassell, M. in the treatment of cardiovascular disease", Pharmacognosy reviews. Cox, F. Wang, N.

Qin, S. Xin-Xin Zheng, Yan-Lu Xu, Shao-Hua Li, Xu-Xia Liu, Rutai Hui, Xiao-Hong Huang, "Green tea intake lowers fasting serum total and LDL cholesterol in adults: a meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials", The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, "Green Tea",. Omar S. Cleveland Clinic, "7 Benefits of Hibiscus Tea", Ried, K. Kim J. Cerdá, Begoña, Javier Marhuenda, Raúl Arcusa, Débora Villaño, Purificación Ballester, and Pilar Zafrilla. Cleveland Clinic, "The Benefits of Cinnamon", Maierean, S.

Qian Zhou, Xingxing lei, Shunlian Fu, Zinan Li, Yiding Chen, Cong Long, Suwen Li, and Qui Chen , "Efficacy of Cinnamon Supplementation on Glycolipid Metabolism in T2DM Diabetes: A Meta-Analysis and Systemic Review", Frontiers in Physiology.

Shaito, A. et al , "Herbal Medicine for Cardiovascular Diseases: Efficacy, Mechanisms, and Safety", Frontiers in Physiology. Continue Reading. education lifestyle research your-natural-self.

Picture your health as a stone castle. Its strength and stability rely on the precise size and shape of each stone, laid meticulously on top of each other. A missing or poorly s When you think of Licorice, you may envision jet-black twists, a potent sweetness, and a flavor that inspires passionate devotion or profound dislike.

While its taste is familia people-farm people-main research the-farm. February 11 is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. We wanted to take a moment to celebrate the women of Gaia Herbs. Raw, unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar ACV has been a wellness staple in kitchen and bathroom cabinets for centuries.

The applecidervinegarch education products. Confused about whether you really need a multivitamin to be healthy? From its unique appearance to its history, it has been a captivating part of culinary and medicinal tra Many people are curious about using plants and herbs to support libido and create a romantic atmosphere but are unsure which herbs really work.

This is understandable, given the Back To All Posts. For over years, CVDs have been treated with numerous herbal remedies. However, these herbal remedies have not been well studied using modern cellular and molecular techniques.

Based on the existing investigations into mechanisms of single herbal compounds, a summary of these studies is presented in the following section wherein the compounds are discussed according to their target site of activity.

The blood vessel tonicity is principally controlled by the contraction and relaxation of VSMCs. Herbal medicine that regulates proteins or molecules in this pathway would modulate vascular contraction or relaxation. Firstly, blocking contractile and structural proteins may be one of the ways which natural plants could facilitate vasodilation and vascular remodeling.

It has been shown that Tianma the tuber of an orchid enhances acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation or phenylephrine-induced contraction in aortic rings Feng et al.

Secondly, phosphorylation of myosin light chain protein is another target for herbs to determine vascular smooth muscle contraction.

A10 cells, rat smooth muscle cells, were treated with kinds of herbs and it was observed that four herbs, Liu-Wei-Di-Huang-Wan, Jia-Wei-Xiao-Yao-San, Danshen and Gegen, reduced phosphorylation of myosin light chain, suggesting that these most common herbs may be beneficial for smooth muscle cell contractility Lin et al.

Extracellular matrix is another target involved in vascular tone regulation. ECM proteins such as Postn is specifically induced upon tissue injury and could promote cellular adhesion and movement as well as collagen fibrillogenesis.

ECM glycoproteins include Eln, Fbln5 and Prelp, being essential to maintain arterial morphogenesis and vessel elasticity. Tianma could induce up-regulation of ECM glycoproteins and down-regulation of ECM proteins in vascular system, thereby regulating blood vessel tonicity by increasing the arterial elasticity and stabilizing the arterial structure Feng et al.

Calcium levels in VSMCs also contribute to regulating the vascular contraction. Tetramethylpyrazine TMP, also known as Ligustrazine , is a vasoactive component derived from Ligustium Wollichii Franchat.

Using dog mesenteric arterial ring preparations, TMP not only caused a dose-dependent inhibition of vascular contractile responses to KCl and phenylephrine in solution with calcium, but also inhibited the responses to phenylephrine in Ca-free medium containing 50 μM EGTA.

This effect was mimicked by a structurally unrelated lipoxygenase inhibitor, 5,8,eicosatriynoic acid and was restored by addition of 12 S -hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids Saito et al. Then, the BK Ca -mediated vascular contraction is further explored. The cAMP and the cGMP pathways are major regulators of smooth muscle contractility.

By cyclic nucleotide assays, baicalin enhanced both cAMP and cGMP levels in mesenteric arteries. Baicalin was observed to enhance BK Ca currents in a concentration-dependent manner, which were abolished by combining inhibitors of AC SQ and sGC ODQ , by combining inhibitors of PKA KT and PKG KT , and PKC activator PMA in mesenteric artery smooth muscle cells.

These results indicate that baicalin-induced mesenteric artery relaxations could be due to BK Ca channel activation occurs not only as a result of PKA and PKG, but also as a result of cross-interaction with PKC Lin et al.

The effects of Camellia japonica on VSMCs migration was evaluated with a wound healing assay. Camellia japonica concentration-dependently suppressed platelet-derived growth factor-BB induced VSMCs wound healing for 24 and 48 h after injury, indicating the migration inhibiting effects Park et al.

In addition, baicalein and baicalin induced anti-proliferative and anti-mitogenic effects in VSMCs of rabbit, rat and bovine were well summarized Huang et al. These results provide additional evidence for the beneficial cardiovascular effects of natural products.

Andrographolide is the most active and critical constituent isolated from the leaves of Andrographis paniculata , a herbal medicine widely used as an anti-inflammatory drugs in Asia.

The mechanisms of the inflammatory effects of andrographolide in VSMCs were investigated by exposing VSMCs to a proinflammatory stimulus, TNF-α. Treating TNF-α-stimulated VSMCs with andrographolide suppressed the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase NOS , JNK, Akt, and p65 phosphorylation.

Thus, andrographolide-mediated inhibition of NF-κB activity in TNF-α-stimulated VSMCs occurs through the JNK-Akt-p65 signaling cascade mechanism, which is independent of IκBα degradation Chen et al.

These results collectively suggest that therapeutic interventions using andrographolide can benefit the treatment of vascular inflammatory diseases. In addition to cellular powerhouses, mitochondria are known as critical regulators of cell death. And they are the major cellular source of ROS which causes damage to mitochondrial DNA in human VSMCs in a number of cardiovascular pathologies.

Thus, mitochondrial dysfunction may lead to the impairment of various aspects of tissue functioning. It has been known that cultured rat aortic VSMCs treated with AngII for 24 h exhibited mitochondrial dysfunction, including a decrease in mitochondrial oxygen consumption rates, ATP production and mtDNA levels, as well as the disruption of mitochondrial structural integrity Lu et al.

Together with the mitochondrial morphological changes, these alterations were reversed by Astragaloside IV, the major active ingredient of Astragalus membranaceus Fisch. a traditional CHM. Moreover, treatment with Astragaloside IV also reversed the AngII-induced increase in the production of ROS, the increase in NADPH oxidase and xanthine oxidase activity, as well as the decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential and manganese-SOD activity.

These results indicate that Astragaloside IV exerts beneficial effects on AngII-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in rat VSMCs and that these effects are mediated through the inhibition of ROS overproduction, as well as the promotion of mitochondrial autophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis Lu et al.

Overall, herbal medicines discussed here do appear to show pharmacological effects in vitro and in animal studies, which may influence CVDs. FIGURE 1. Endothelial cells, which constitute the inner cellular lining of blood vessels, have a key role in regulating vascular homeostasis and function, such as vasorelaxation, vascular integrity, and local inflammation.

Endothelium-dependent vasodilation was commonly applied to examine the endothelium function, in which NO is a potent vasodilator and plays an important role in regulating vascular tones. Some herbal medicine functions by targeting at the NO producing process.

In studies at the arterial levels, both Lysimachia clethroides and gypenosides elicit vasorelaxation which was abolished by endothelial NOS eNOS or guanylyl cyclase inhibitors Tanner et al.

Sal B, a hydrophilic caffeic acid derivative of Danshen, exerts an important regulatory function on endothelial tissue of isolated mouse aorta by promoting NO production through the inhibition of arginase activity Joe et al.

Fo Shou San, an ancient herbal decoction Chuanxiong Rhizoma and Angelicae Sinensis Radix Danggui in a ratio of , reversed homocysteine-induced impairment of acetylcholine-evoked endothelium-dependent relaxation in rat aortic rings Bi et al. In studies at the cellular levels, gypenosides induced a concentration-dependent increase in NO production from cultured bovine endothelial cells Tanner et al.

Consistent with it, magnesium tanshinoate B another compound purified from Danshen or Fo Shou San, also stimulated the release of NO and its metabolites from a human endothelial cell line ECV O et al.

By exploring the mechanisms by which NO production is induced, it was observed that the cellular NOS activities were significantly enhanced with a concomitant increase in the levels of constitutive NOS protein mass O et al. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of CVDs, in which adhesion molecules, pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines are involved.

The anti-inflammatory effects of Danshen and its active ingredients Sal B, Tanshionone IIA, Protoc et al. were extensively investigated in traditional Chinese medicine for therapy of CVDs.

Incubation with TNFα or ADP is widely used to induce inflammation in vitro. In TNFα treated HUVECs, although neither Sal B nor Tanshinone IIA inhibit the inflammation Stumpf et al. In ADP-treated human platelets, pre-treatment with both Sal B, Tanshionone IIA and Danshen significantly attenuated platelet P-selectin expression Stumpf et al.

Gypenoside XLIX, a dammarane-type glycoside, is a prominent component of G. Studies demonstrate that Gypenoside XLIX inhibits TNFα-induced VCAM-1 over expression and hyperactivity in human endothelial cells via a PPARα-dependent pathway Huang et al.

These findings provide useful insight into the rational basis of CHM in the treatment of CVDs. There are a myriad of herbs that demonstrate effects of endothelial cell protection by different mechanisms.

For example, Sal B decreases ROS production in the aortic rings. Since ROS easily acts with NO to produce peroxynitrite anions, which is a potent and potentially toxic oxidant that damages various types of biomolecules, it can be deduced that Sal B may exert its protective function by precluding NO consumption through adverse reactions such as peroxynitrite formation and preserving NO bioavailability Joe et al.

EGb Ginkgo biloba extract suppresses oxidative stress in a dose-dependent manner in high glucose-stimulated HUVEC. In addition to inhibition of ROS generation and 8-OHdG content, it attenuated oxidative DNA damage, indicating herbs could exert endothelial protection by alleviating endothelial DNA oxidation He Y.

Echium amoenum extract a major source of anthocyanins demonstrated antioxidant and cytoprotective effect in H 2 O 2 -treated HUVECs. KRGE reduces the H 2 O 2 -induced cell injury in HUVECs too.

The inhibited effect on cell death was blunted by HO-1 inhibitor zinc protoporphyrin. HO-1 is considered to augment the cellular defense against various agents inducing cytotoxic injury. KRGE was observed to induce up-regulation of HO-1 expression in HUVECs, which was abolished by specific silencing of Nuclear factor-eythroid 2-related factor 2 Nrf2, a important anti-oxidant transcription factor expression Yang et al.

These results suggest that Korean Red Ginseng may exert a vascular protective effect through Nrf2-mediated HO-1 induction in human endothelial cells.

Ophiopogonin D is one of the most bioactive components of Radix Ophiopogon japonicas. Its pretreatment showed a series of antioxidation-related protective effects: 1 reducing H 2 O 2 -induced lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation, 2 attenuating mitochondrial ROS generation and cell apoptosis, 3 restoring cellular total antiboidative capacity, 4 inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokines and blocking activation of NFκB and ERK signaling cascades, 5 suppressing the enzymatic activity of catalase, HO-1, and caspases Qian et al.

In general, these findings support the protective role of herbs as an effective antioxidant in endothelial injury. Although endothelial cell dysfunction occurs in many different disease processes, caspase-dependent apoptotic cell death induced by the extrinsic or intrinsic pathways is identified as a common denominator.

Protective effect of KRGE was examined in a serum-deprived apoptosis model, which demonstrated that it could prevent serum deprivation-induced HUVEC apoptosis Kim et al. Cytosolic cytochrome c is known to play a crucial role in the activation of the initiator caspase-9 and the effector caspase KRGE prevented subcellular redistribution of cytochrome c from the mitochondrion into the cytosol, resulting in suppression of the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis activation Kim et al.

The cytoprotective property of KRGE may be valuable for developing new pharmaceutical means that limit endothelial cell death induced during the pathogenesis of vascular diseases.

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from preexisting endothelium, is critical to a variety of processes, both physiologically embryonic development and wound healing and pathologically malignancy and chronic inflammation.

It is a complex biologic function comprising several steps, including sequential basement membrane degradation, endothelial cell migration and proliferation, tube formation, inhibition of endothelial proliferation, and the stabilization of new vessels.

Modulation of any of these steps would affect new vessel formation. Scutellarin, a known flavone glycoside, is the primary active component of the traditional CHM Erigeron breviscapus Vant. It has been shown to induce endothelial cell proliferation and migration, promote capillary-like tube formation, and significantly upregulate platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 Gao Z.

These results suggest that herbal medicine promotes angiogenesis and may form a basis for angiogenic therapy. Endothelial cell hyperpermeability is another factor implicated in CVDs, in which the importance of tyrosine phosphorylaton and kinase activity in oxidant-mediated loss of cell junction structures has been demonstrated.

Extract of salvia miltiorrhiza and its major ingredients, Danshensu and Sal B inhibited TNFα-induced endothelial permeability, evidenced by attenuated junctional protein phosphotyrosine and prevention of beta-catenin disassociation from the cytoskeleton Ding and Yuan, The mechanism of pharmacological action was further explored.

The extract, Danshensu and Sal B also repressed expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and ERK activation in TNFα treated HUVEC cells.

In addition, it was found that the extract attenuated the disorganization of vascular endothelial-cadherin, which is likely due to a reduction of vascular endothelial growth factor protein expression as a result of modulation of the ERK signaling pathway Ding et al.

These findings suggest that active herbal ingredients may help to attenuate CVDs by maintaining the integrity of endothelial junction structure. In general, herbal medicines do show the beneficial effects in endothelial cells. As shown in Figure 1 , these natural plants exert the protective effect by inhibition of inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis, activation of eNOS-NO signaling pathway, induction of angiogenesis and suppression of endothelial permeability.

Pathological cardiac hypertrophy induced by increased sympathetic drive can subsequently lead to congestive heart failure, which represents the major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In addition, Astragalus polysaccharide pretreatment not only alleviated the augmentation of intracellular free calcium during cardiac hypertrophy but also upregulated expression of calcineurin, translocation of nuclear factor of activated T cells, cytoplasmic 3 into nucleus and activation of calmodulin kinase II reflected by p-CaMKII Dai et al.

Chlorogenic acid is an important component of CHM, which acts as an antioxidant scavenging free radicals and preventing inflammation. Pre-treatment of chlorogenic acid in the isoprenaline-induced neonatal rat myocytes, decreased the levels of the hypertrophic markers, ANP, B-type natriuretic peptide and β-MHC.

The level of the intracellular ROS was reduced and the nuclear translocation of NF-κB was blocked, whereas NF-κBIA, an inhibitor of NF-κB, was upregulated accordingly. These data reveal that chlorogenic acid may inhibit cardiac hypertrophy by attenuating NF-κB signaling pathway and suppressing ROS production Li et al.

Many data have demonstrated that ROS production by myocardial endothelial mitochondria contributes to heart disease and oxidative stress within ventricular myocytes can also be detrimental to the heart.

In fact, much of the contractile dysfunction and adverse myocardial remodeling, which has been observed in a wide range of cardiomyopathies, involves oxidative stress and eNOS uncoupling leading to a decrease in NO.

There are a series of targets at which herbal medicine act to improve myocardial endothelial function by attenuation of oxidative stress. Thus, free radical scavenging and inhibition of oxidases will exert protective effect in cardiac injury. Baicalein may provide such therapy by deletion of free radicals, reducing hydroxyl radicals generation by suppressing iron-catalyzed Fenton reaction or decreasing ROS production by inhibiting activities of NADH-oxidase and xanthine oxidase Huang et al.

Thus it is easy to understand the oxidized LDLs-induced endothelial dysfunction could be restored by L -arginine and NO. The olive products constitute a rich source of polyphenols such as oleuropein and its derivatives, including hydroxytyrosol, which scavenge free radicals and inhibit the chemical oxidation of LDL.

Studies have shown that treatment with high doses of oleuropein at min 1 of reperfusion significantly reduced levels in plasma NOx in hypercholesterolemic rabbits coupled with reduction of infarct size in this group Andreadou et al.

Therefore, plant products may function as a NO donor to inhibit formation of peroxynitrite and NOx. The decrease in these biomarkers indicates the protective action of oleuropein, baicalein, crocetin, Allium chinense and Astragalus against oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals Nasa et al.

Qian-Kun-Nin, a CHM formulation was observed to significantly decreased cell death and attenuate oxidation of DCFH in cells exposed to the mitochondrial site III inhibitor, antimycin A, consistent with a decrease in oxidative stress Shao et al. These findings indicate herbal medicine may inhibit oxidative stress by improving mitochondrial function.

Thus, keeping the function of antioxidant enzymes standards for another target to inhibit oxidative stress and protect cardiac injury. Herbs such as American ginseng could enhance this antioxidant system in rat cardiac H9C2 cells Li et al.

The antioxidant systems include Nrf2 protein expression, Nrf2 nuclear translocation, Nrf2 transcriptional activity, direct Nrf2 binding to its target gene promoters, and expression of a group of anti-oxidative genes.

Thus, herbs may serve as antioxidant enhancer to provide cardioprotection against pathological cardiac injury and remodeling. This may help indentifying novel therapeutic targets in the effect of plant products to protect the heart from injury. H 2 O 2 treatment induces both oxidative damage and apoptosis, contributing to cardiac injury in cultured rat cardiomyocytes.

Cynaroside, a flavonoid compound, has been shown to enhance the endogenous anti-oxidative activity, thereby inhibiting intracellular ROS generation. It also showed the protective effects against H 2 O 2 -induced apoptosis in H9c2 rat cardiomyoblasts.

The mechanism by which cynaroside reduced the apoptotic rate were further explored. Moreover, cynaroside pretreatment showed an inhibitory effect on the H 2 O 2 -induced increase in JNK and P53 protein expression Sun et al.

These findings suggest that flavonoid products prevent cardiomyocytes apoptosis in vitro by reducing the endogenous production of ROS, maintaining mitochondrial function, and modulating the JNK and P53 pathways. Cardiac myocyte is the cell types in which K ATP channels were originally discovered.

It is well established that K ATP channels are present at high density in the sarcolemma of cardiac myocytes where they link membrane excitability with the cellular bioenergetic state. Pinacidil is a potassium channel opener which mediate preconditioning at the beginning of sustained hypoxia by opening of sarcolemmal K ATP channels Budas et al.

Similar to it, Guanxinkang treatment benefit the heart function by increasing mRNA and protein expression of K ATP subunits Kir6. Keep in line with it, extracts of Astragalus demonstrated its anti-apoptotic effect in H 2 O 2 -injured cardiomyocytes only when the K ATP channels were open, whereas the protective effect was not observed when the channels were inhibited by the K ATP channel blocker 5-HD, glibenclamide Nasa et al.

These findings suggest enhancing the open of K ATP channel is one of the important mechanisms by which herbs protect myocardial cells from ischemic injury. Atrial natriuretic peptide is secreted by the heart atrium cells.

ANP binds to a specific set of receptors and acts to reduce the water, sodium and adipose loads on the circulatory system, thereby reducing cardiac output and systemic BP.

Emodin, an active anthraquinone constituent isolated from the rhubarb, was observed to increase ANP secretion concomitantly with a decrease in atrial pulse pressure and stroke volume in a concentration-dependent manner.

This study provides a rationale for the use of herbal medicine in the treatment of impairment of the regulation of the cardiovascular homeostasis. In the milieu of cardiovascular risk factors that disturb vascular homeostasis, inflammation represents a key early event in vascular pathology, in which monocytes activation, adhesion to the endothelium and infiltration of macrophages into blood vessels are thought to play important pathogenic roles in atherosclerosis and other inflammatory CVDs.

The transcriptional and translational regulation of iNOS in various cell types can be induced by cytokines, growth factors, and endotoxins. Lipopolysaccharide LPS stimulation has been shown to enhance iNOS expression, NO production, and macrophage arginase activity in RAW In addition, cytoprotective molecule HO-1 expression was upregulated by these Danshen products too Joe et al.

SnPP is well characterized as a potent competitive inhibitor of HO activity. Since the iNOS expression, NO production, and TNFα production, were completely abolished by SnPP, the anti-inflammatory effect of Sal B in macrophages may be related to modulation of HO Hb serves as a CO scavenging compound.

Preincubation of Hb for 30 min reversed the inhibitory effect of Sal B on LPS-induced iNOS expression, NO production and NFκB activation in the RAW Although the mechanism by which HO-1 down-regulates iNOS is incompletely clear, it may involve transcriptional inhibition through CO formation or reduction of heme bioavailability for iNOS synthesis.

Consistent with the effect of Sal B, Tanshinone IIA another major compound extracted from Danshen exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibition of iNOS gene expression and NO production, as well as inhibition of inflammatory cytokine IL-1β, IL-6 and TNFα expression in RAW Since Tan IIA has a similar structure to that of 17β-estradiol, the estrogenic activities was examined in the immune cells.

In fact, the most commonly used alternative herbal medicines for estrogen replacement are soy, black cohosh, dong quai and ginseng. Thus, these herbal medicines may serve as a potential selective estrogen receptor modulator to treat inflammation-associated CVDs without increasing the risk of breast cancer.

Activation of the nuclear receptor, PPARα, has been demonstrated to modulate many aspects of lipoprotein metabolism and inflammation both in vitro as well as in vivo. The tissue distribution of PPARα is extensive and it may mediate many of anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic effects.

Gypenoside XLIX, a dammarane-type glycoside, is one of the prominent components in Gynostemma pentaphyllum. It has been identified as a potent PPARα activator in HUVEC study Huang et al. Tissue factor is involved in many diseases including CVDs and hence may be an attractive target for directed CVDs therapeutics.

In human monocytic THP-1 cells transfected with promoter reporter constructs pTF-LUC, Gyp XLIX 0— mM concentration-dependently inhibited LPS-stimulated tissue factor promoter activity, mRNA and protein overexpression. This effect was similar to those of Wy, a potent synthetic PPARα activator, and completely abolished in the presence of the PPARα selective antagonist MK Huang et al.

These data indicate that Gyp XLIX inhibits LPS-induced tissue factor overexpression and enhancement of its activity in human THP-1 monocytic cells via PPARα-dependent pathways, providing new insights into the mechanism of the Chinese herbal plants in CVDs treatment.

These effects are achieved by inhibition of iNOS-NO signaling pathway, which may be through activation of estrogen receptor and nuclear receptor PPARα-dependent signaling pathways Figure 1. One may predict that herbal remedies will receive even more attention in the coming years.

However, some objective limitations should be considered based on the existing literature. Firstly, the CHM are widely studied in China. Accordingly, many articles published on the Chinese literature which may limit these work to be retrieved and public to the world.

In addition, a location bias cannot be excluded since trials published in local journals are more likely to report significant results than those published in worldwide mainstream medical journals. Poorly designed and reported clinic trails usually exaggerate the treatment effects which will misled decision making in clinic.

Thirdly, compounds contained in one herb, even in an extract of one herb are very complicated. Fourthly, many herbal medicine remedies used today have not undergone careful scientific assessment and there still lack preclinical study on the side effects, toxic effects and major drug-to-drug interactions in record.

Therefore, to develop new agents with effectiveness and safety from traditional Chinese medicine is a promising way for prevention and treatment of patients with CVDs. In addition, international collaboration may be encouraged, promoted and financed from the governments in order to improve the overall research quality.

CL drafted the work; YH revised the manuscript. Both CL and YH contributed substantially to the conception or design of the work, approved the final version to be published, and agreed to be accountable for all aspects of the work in ensuring that questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work are appropriately investigated and resolved.

This work was supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China , Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars of China LR17H, Hangzhou Science and Technology Plan Project of China B36 and the Scientific Research Foundation for the Returned Overseas Chinese Scholars, Ministry of Education of China to CL.

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. Acin, S. Hydroxytyrosol administration enhances atherosclerotic lesion development in apo E deficient mice.

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Potential synergistic and adverse side effects of herb-drug interactions also need to be studied. These approaches will help in establishing them as remedies for cardiovascular diseases and including them in the mainstream of healthcare system.

Keywords: Allium sativum; Cardiovascular disorders; Commiphora wightii; Crataegus oxyacantha; Medicinal plants; Terminalia arjuna. Abstract Background: Medicinal plants have been used in patients with congestive heart failure, systolic hypertension, angina pectoris, atherosclerosis, cerebral insufficiency, venous insufficiency and arrhythmia since centuries.

Publication types Review. It has caused reversible liver toxicity. Hawthorn may have some benefit on hypertension, hyperlipidemia, arrhythmias, and congestive heart failure.

Clinical studies have shown it to improve various parameters in chronic heart failure, and while safe, it did not affect outcome.

Soybeans or soy have a high content of proteins, and isoflavones, which are compounds with both estrogen-like properties and anti-estrogen activity. American Heart Association and European guidelines have suggested there may be a clinical value of high intake of soy protein g for decreasing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality when used as a substitute for animal sources of protein high in saturated fat.

However, they may increase risk of breast, uterine, and ovarian cancer. Use of herbal medications for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases is not supported by scientific evidence.

Although most of the herbs demonstrate an effect on biological mechanisms associated with cardiovascular disease, available clinical studies are limited in sample size and appropriate controls.

Physicians should be certain patients inform them regarding all supplements, particularly herbal, which can result in serious bleeding and drug interactions. x You must be logged in to save to your library.

Guidelines JACC Journals on ACC. This herb is full of antioxidants that help eliminate free radicals. The antioxidant epicatechin contributes in supporting the heart, reducing the risk of heart disease. Oatstraw is a nutritive tonic, this herbal ally is most widely known for its restorative and nourishing effect on the nervous system.

This herb contains vitamins A, C, E, K, and B complex, and minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, silica, and zinc. Studies have shown that low levels of daily calcium intake have been linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure.

One cup of oatstraw infusion contains up to mg of calcium. Fenugreek plants are native to South America, Asia, and the Middle East, its seeds have been used in TCM and Ayurveda for hundreds of years to aid digestion. Studies show that fenugreek seeds can help to improve lipid profiles by lowering high levels of LDL and triglycerides.

The medicinal mushroom has become increasingly popular over the past few years, especially as research begins to show the benefits mushrooms can have both mentally and physically.

Cordyceps has traditionally been used to help regulate abnormal heartbeat heart arrhythmia. A healthy diet contributes to our overall health; putting the right or wrong foods into our bodies will reflect our state of health and energy.

Garlic, artichokes, red rice yeast, cinnamon, turmeric, avocados, pistachios,and fiber can all help in maintaining heart health. Over the centuries, many cultures have used garlic to enhance the flavor of meals and for its medicinal properties.

Garlic produces allicin and ajoene, two compounds that are beneficial for healthy blood circulation, as they help prevent the formation of blood clots. Garlic has been widely studied and recognized for its positive effects on maintaining cardiovascular health, especially in diseases like hyperlipidemia, thrombosis, and hypertension.

Artichokes have 7grams of fiber, getting your recommended daily fiber intake has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Artichokes are also rich in vitamins C, K, folate, and minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, practitioners use red rice yeast to help improve digestion, blood circulation, and lower cholesterol.

Its cholesterol-lowering effects have been attributed to the herb's high levels of monacolin K. COQ10 or Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that is produced naturally by the body, protecting cells from damage. The highest concentrations are found in the heart, liver, and kidneys. It is often used as a supplement for people who are experiencing heart conditions, like heart disease and high blood pressure.

COQ10 can also be found in foods like beef liver, chicken heart, trout, mackerel, sardines, soybeans, pistachios, peanuts, and sesame seeds. Common household spices like turmeric and cinnamon can contribute to heart health.

Cinnamon contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Antioxidants help to fight oxidative stress and nitric oxide buildup that has been linked to contributing to heart disease.

Turmeric is most widely known for its anti-inflammatory properties, inflammation has been linked to heart disease. Meditation provides an endless list of health benefits including, stress reduction, increased self-awareness, lower risk of depression, increased self-esteem, reduced anxiety, and it has also been studied for its effects on heart health.

John Denninger , director of research at the Harvard-affiliated Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital said " Not only can meditation improve how your heart functions, but a regular practice can enhance your outlook on life and motivate you to maintain many heart-healthy behaviors, like following a proper diet, getting adequate sleep, and keeping up regular exercise.

Buy Herbs Services About In-Person Classes Online Classes Ebooks Blog Book Now. Back Shop Online Herb Shop Gift Cards Quality Supplements. Back Herbal Consults Shamanic Journeying Sound Bed Therapy Testimonials. Back Class Calendar Budding Herbalist Program Shamanic Medicine Wheel Intensive Meditation Free Classes.

Back Herbal Home Remedies Homemade Healing. Herbs for Heart Health “ The human heart feels things the eyes cannot see, and knows what the mind cannot understand.

The Emotional Heart We've all felt the "emotional heart" in some form, whether from worry, fear, joy, or happiness. Herbal Allies for the Heart Hawthorn Crataegus spp.

Gaia Herbs' Green Tea for Energy Support harnesses the benefits of certified Organic Green Tea leaves extracted and concentrated to provide the full spectrum of natural phytochemicals in green tea leaves.

Numerous pharmacological studies conducted in vitro focus on the heart-healing benefits of Olive Leaf Olea europaea. This small evergreen tree is a member of the Oleaceae family that shows promise in supporting cardiovascular health.

Along with supporting immune function, Olive leaf extract may lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of arterial damage, and may also help to support healthy blood clotting.

The antioxidants in Olive Leaf may help support heart health by protecting the body from free radical damage. It's a superior-quality extract containing compounds that have beneficial properties. These properties can help to support the body's natural defense against infections and other harmful pathogens.

Hibiscus Hibiscus sabdariffa is a genus of the Malvaceae or Mallow family. In some countries, it is often called Red Sorrel. Studies suggest that extracts of Hibiscus may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels already in the normal range. Hibiscus has numerous cardiovascular benefits.

Hibiscus tea can support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can help support long-term cardiovascular wellness. Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants and has soothing properties, which can protect the heart and support healthy blood clotting. Hibiscus may also support healthy blood sugar levels and encourage a healthy metabolism.

Served hot or over ice, brighten any day with our delightful Organic Hibiscus Herbal Tea. Naturally sweet tasting, this tea has a tangy kick and a light citrus fragrance from Mandarin Orange Peel essential oil.

Recognized for its numerous health benefits, Garlic Allium sativum contains compounds such as allicin, which have antioxidant and soothing properties.

These compounds can help support blood flow to the heart, support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and support healthy blood clotting. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its potential health benefits, Ginseng Panax ginseng is believed to have protective effects on the cardiovascular system.

Ginseng promotes the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes the blood vessels and supports blood flow. This process supports endothelial function, healthy blood pressure levels, and heart health. It can also support healthy levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.

Gaia Herbs' Ginseng Supreme supplement is a high-quality blend of ginseng, including American Ginseng, Eleuthero , and Asian Ginseng, to support stamina and vitality. Ginger Zingiber officinale is a flowering plant used for centuries in traditional medicine.

Ginger contains compounds such as gingerols and shogaols, which have soothing and antioxidant properties. Ginger can significantly support healthy blood triglyceride levels and blood pressure levels, as well as support overall heart function. Gaia Herbs Ginger Supreme is a high-quality supplement that supports a healthy immune response, digestive and cardiovascular health, and circulation.

Cinnamon Cinnamomum verum is a spice derived from the inner bark of trees native to Sri Lanka and southern India. It contains compounds such as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid, which have soothing antioxidant properties.

One study found that taking cinnamon supplements for 12 weeks contributed to healthy blood triglyceride levels, a significant risk factor for heart disease.

In a meta-analysis of clinical trials, individuals who took cinnamon had healthier cholesterol levels compared to those who received a placebo.

Gaia Herbs Cinnamon Bark supplement is made from pure, organic cinnamon and can support healthy glucose and lipid metabolism. Gaia Herbs' expertly formulated heart-supporting products are made with organic, natural, and sustainably sourced ingredients.

This practice ensures you get the highest quality, most effective supplement possible while supporting our planet's health. With Gaia Herbs, you can trust that you're getting quality supplements and teas backed by science and a commitment to sustainability.

Small steps can make a significant impact on your wellness journey! Along with a healthy lifestyle, incorporating heart-healthy herbs can support your cardiovascular system and overall well-being. education 9 Herbs to Help Support a Healthy and Happy Heart Published on April 04, How Can You Make Your Heart Stronger Naturally?

REF While herbs and supplements can provide numerous benefits, it is crucial to understand the potential risks and ensure that they do not counteract medication or pre-existing medical conditions.

Hawthorn Hawthorn Crataegus is a large genus of shrubs and trees in the Rosaceae family. REF Gaia Herbs offers herbal products containing Hawthorn, such as our Hawthorn Supreme Capsules , Hawthorn Supreme Extract , and Turmeric Supreme Heart Health.

Turmeric A spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, Turmeric Curcuma longa contains the active ingredient Curcumin, which has potent soothing and antioxidant properties that may benefit heart health. REF Curcumin can help soothe scar tissue, support healthy heart tissue, and support the heart wall's thickness, which is vital for maintaining proper heart function.

REF Turmeric reduces irritation in the heart tissue , supporting overall heart health. REF Gaia Herbs Turmeric Supreme Heart Health combines Turmeric with other herbal extracts to support healthy cardiovascular function.

REF Gaia Herbs' Green Tea for Energy Support harnesses the benefits of certified Organic Green Tea leaves extracted and concentrated to provide the full spectrum of natural phytochemicals in green tea leaves. REF The antioxidants in Olive Leaf may help support heart health by protecting the body from free radical damage.

Hibiscus Hibiscus Hibiscus sabdariffa is a genus of the Malvaceae or Mallow family. REF Hibiscus has numerous cardiovascular benefits. REF Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants and has soothing properties, which can protect the heart and support healthy blood clotting.

REF Served hot or over ice, brighten any day with our delightful Organic Hibiscus Herbal Tea. Garlic Recognized for its numerous health benefits, Garlic Allium sativum contains compounds such as allicin, which have antioxidant and soothing properties.

REF Ginseng Traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its potential health benefits, Ginseng Panax ginseng is believed to have protective effects on the cardiovascular system. REF Gaia Herbs' Ginseng Supreme supplement is a high-quality blend of ginseng, including American Ginseng, Eleuthero , and Asian Ginseng, to support stamina and vitality.

Ginger Ginger Zingiber officinale is a flowering plant used for centuries in traditional medicine. REF Ginger can significantly support healthy blood triglyceride levels and blood pressure levels, as well as support overall heart function.

REF Gaia Herbs Ginger Supreme is a high-quality supplement that supports a healthy immune response, digestive and cardiovascular health, and circulation. REF One study found that taking cinnamon supplements for 12 weeks contributed to healthy blood triglyceride levels, a significant risk factor for heart disease.

REF In a meta-analysis of clinical trials, individuals who took cinnamon had healthier cholesterol levels compared to those who received a placebo.

REF Gaia Herbs Cinnamon Bark supplement is made from pure, organic cinnamon and can support healthy glucose and lipid metabolism. Featured Products Best Seller. Featured Products. Best Seller.

In addition, danshen dilates coronary arteries at low dosages but constricts noncoronary arteries at higher dosages. Another commonly used herbal therapy is garlic. Studies have shown that garlic use can lower serum cholesterol levels from 5 to 15 percent, reduce plaque size, and cause a modest reduction in hypertension.

Nevertheless, knowledge about the active compounds and the exact mechanisms of action are lacking. Other cardiovascular benefits can potentially occur with ginkgo, ginseng, hawthorn, horse chestnut seed, and yohimbine therapy. The authors emphasize that the studies on the efficacy of these medications are usually small, and there are a limited number of placebo-controlled trials to support them.

They also caution that many herbal therapies may have an adverse effect on the cardiovascular system see accompanying table.

One of the most common adverse effects is platelet dysfunction. The therapies that have been linked to platelet dysfunction include danshen, garlic, ginger, and kava. Therapy with these products could become a potential problem in patients who are taking antiplatelet medications or have a bleeding disorder.

Before initiating anti-platelet therapy, information about the use of herbal remedies should be obtained.

Another potential source of problems with herbal therapy is drug interactions. This is particularly true with warfarin therapy. Dong quai and garlic may increase the International Normalized Ratio INR in patients who are taking stable warfarin dosages.

One case report of ginseng therapy showed a decreased INR in a patient who was taking a stable dosage of warfarin, but there is no other supporting data.

Another drug interaction with herbal remedies that should be monitored is the potential impact on digitalis. The use of St. John's wort reduces serum digoxin levels. Herbal laxatives such as buckthorn, cascara sagrada, and senna can cause potassium loss that can lead to digitalis toxicity.

A number of herbs including oleander, adonis, black Indian hemp, black hellebore, lily-of-the-valley, squill, and strophanthus contain an active cardiac glycoside that can potentiate digoxin.

The authors conclude that the growing use of herbal remedies in the United States has surpassed the available information on their potential benefits, risks, and drug interactions. Physicians should become familiar with the evidence about these alternative therapies.

This will allow patients who wish to use herbal therapies an opportunity to do so in a safer manner. Valli G, Giardina EG. Benefits, adverse effects and drug interactions of herbal therapies with cardiovascular effects. J Am Coll Cardiol. April 3, ; This content is owned by the AAFP.

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