Our dependence on drug therapy to reduce cholesterol is staggering and approximately 15% of the top prescribed medications in the world are generic statins. The are NO scientific studies ever documented which have proved through causation that lowering LDL cholesterol prevents disease. It's more important to manage your cholesterol with dietary herbs than it is to lower cholesterol with any statin drugs.
The fact that people with high cholesterol live the longest
emerges clearly from many scientific papers. So we must
separate fact from fiction with an understanding that lowering
cholesterol is not for everybody, even many with high cholesterol should
be cautious of any medical advice to lower cholesterol with drug
therapy.
Millions take statin drugs to help lower their cholesterol, making it one of the most popular classes of prescription drugs on the market today, but like most prescription medications, these drugs are often unnecessary, as most people could lower their LDL cholesterol levels simply by changing their diet and lifestyle. Whether your health is at the top of its game or not, there are a number of valuable plants which can help you manage your cholesterol levels naturally if it's necessary at all. Known as curative herbs, these natural substances help in cholesterol management thereby promoting peak health by balancing and revitalizing the system.
1) Alfalfa Herb
Animal studies indicate that saponins in alfalfa seeds may block absorption of cholesterol and prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. It seems that fibers and chemicals in alfalfa appear to stick to cholesterol, keeping it from staying in the blood or depositing in blood vessels. More of the harmful types of cholesterol leave the body, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) - the "good" kind of cholesterol -- appears to be unaffected. One small human trial found that 120 grams per day of heat-treated alfalfa seeds for eight weeks led to a modest reduction in cholesterol. However, avoid consuming the large amounts of alfalfa seeds (80 to 120 grams per day) for it may potentially cause damage to red blood cells in the body.
2) Holy Basil
Holy Basil reduces cortisol, improves immune system and lowers cholesterol. It is a very safe herb for adrenal fatigue treatment because it does not have the negative stimulating affects of other adrenal fatigue herbs such as ginseng or rhodioloa. In addition to lowering cortisol during exposure to stress, Holy Basil also lowers total cholesterol and boosts your immune system. It also prevents changes in plasma level of corticosterone induced by exposure to both acute and chronic stress.
3) Capsicum Fruit
Capsicum is a spicy herb commonly used in chili and salsa. Extract has stimulating properties and creates increased blood flow. Slow and sluggish circulation that accumulates toxins is quickened, and blood moves to the extremities of the body taking with it needed oxygen and nutrients to the cells. In scientific studies capsicum has been shown to lower high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
4) Garlic Bulb
Garlic has been used throughout the centuries, for treating various illness. The most important and unique feature is its high content of organosulfur substances. Garlic contains at least four times more sulfur than other high sulfur vegetables-onion, broccoli and cauliflower. It keeps the cholesterol levels in our blood in good balance. It does this by lowering serum cholesterol levels while raising ‘good’ HDL-cholesterol levels. Garlic has anti-clotting effects that reduce plaque formation in blood vessels and clots that cause heart disease and stroke.
5) Psyllium
Use of psyllium has been extensively studied as a way to reduce cholesterol levels. An analysis of all double-blind trials in 1997 concluded that a daily amount of 10 grams psyllium lowered cholesterol levels by 5% and LDL cholesterol by 9%. Since then, a large controlled trial found that use of 5.1 grams of psyllium two times per day significantly reduced serum cholesterol as well as LDL-cholesterol. Generally, 5 to 10 grams of psyllium are added to the diet per day to lower cholesterol levels. The combination of psyllium and oat bran may also be effective at lowering LDL cholesterol
6) Skullcap
Skullcap is a unique plant that has been used for a number of herbal remedies, but a Japanese study showed that the plant can help to increase your body’s natural production of the beneficial HDL cholesterol. This means that taking skullcap will help your body to more naturally get rid of the cholesterol on its own.
7) Red Yeast Rice Since 800 A.D., red yeast rice has been employed by the Chinese as both a food and a medicinal agent. Its therapeutic benefits as both a promoter of blood circulation and a digestive stimulant. Researchers have determined that one of the ingredients in red yeast rice, called monacolin K, inhibits the production of cholesterol by stopping the action of a key enzyme in the liver (e.g., HMG-CoA reductase) that is responsible for manufacturing cholesterol. Red yeast rice has been clinically investigated as a therapy for reducing cholesterol in two human trials. In one trial, both men and women taking 1.2 grams (approximately 13.5 mg total monacolins) of a concentrated red yeast rice extract per day for two months had significant decreases in serum cholesterol levels. In addition, people taking red yeast rice had a significant increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol and a decrease in LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Elevated triglycerides were also found to be lowered. Red yeast rice is commercially available in capsules and 2.4 grams (approximately 10 mg monacolins) per day is often recommended in divided amounts for a trial period of up to 12 weeks. If successful after this period of time, it may be used for long-term management of high cholesterol.
8) Fenugreek Seeds
They contain alkaloids (mainly trigonelline) and protein high in lysine (Lysine is an essential amino acid needed for growth and to help maintain nitrogen balance in the body.) and L-tryptophan. Its steroidal saponins are thought to inhibit cholesterol absorption and synthesis. Trials have shown that fenugreek lowers elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, but does not lower HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. The typical range of intake for cholesterol-lowering is 5-30 grams with each meal or 15-90 grams all at once with one meal. As a tincture, 3-4 ml of fenugreek can be taken up to three times per day. Due to the potential uterine stimulating properties of fenugreek, which may cause miscarriages, fenugreek should not be used during pregnancy.
9) Butcher's Broom
Anti-inflammatory; strengthens walls of blood vessels; great for someone going into surgery, as it is used for post-op problems such as thrombosis, etc.; aids circulation to brain, arms and legs; good for the bed-ridden or the elderly; diuretic; lowers bad cholesterol; great for pregnant women and people who stand for long periods of time, as it eliminates swelling.
10) Guggul
It contains resin, volatile oils, and gum. The extract isolates ketonic steroid compounds known as guggulsterones. These compounds have been shown to provide the cholesterol- and triglyceride-lowering actions. Guggul significantly lowers serum triglycerides and cholesterol as well as LDL and VLDL cholesterols (the "bad" cholesterols). At the same time, it raises levels of HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol). As antioxidants, guggulsterones keep LDL cholesterol from oxidizing, an action which protects against atherosclerosis. Guggul has also been shown to reduce the stickiness of platelets--another effect that lowers the risk of coronary artery disease.Daily recommendations for the purified guggul extract are typically based on the amount of guggulsterones in the extract. A common intake of guggulsterones is 25 mg three times per day. Most extracts contain 2.5-5% guggulsterones and can be taken daily for 12 to 24 weeks for lowering high cholesterol and/or triglycerides. Guggul should be used with caution by women with liver disease and in cases of inflammatory bowel disease and diarrhea. A physician should be consulted before treating elevated cholesterol and triglycerides.
11) Licorice Root
Derived from the root of a shrubby perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, It boosts overall health. licorice root appears to promote normal heart rhythm (China Journal of Chinese Materia Medica, 1991, vol. 16) and enhance hormonal balance in women (Endocrinology Japonica, 1988, vol. 35). Plus, it's often used for detoxifying the liver. The plant's root contains a variety of chemical agents, including glycoside glycyrrhizin. The amount of glycyrrhizin varies from 7 percent to 10 percent, depending on growing conditions. In case you decide to use, opt for the DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) form.
12) Hawthorn Berry
Its preparations are widely used by physicians in heart conditions. Tonic for the heart, dilates blood vessels, relaxant, antioxidant. Its bioflavonoid content assists in increasing the flow of blood to the heart muscles, thereby reducing the symptoms of angina; also prevents or reduces degeneration of the blood vessels. Used to treat angina and coronary artery disease; useful for mild congestive heart and irregular heartbeat. Restores blood pressure to normal and is therefore useful for not only high, but low, blood pressure.
Some other herbs used in the management of cholesterol are: Ginseng, turmeric, Cayenne, Aloe Vera, Saffron, Dandelion, True Blue Skullcap, Thyme Herb, Black Cohash, Gaurana, Yellow Dock, Burdock Root, Echinacea Root, Red Clover blooms. Do not consume these herbs without consultation from your Naturopathic Doctor. Doses of these herbs need to be carefully administered to avoid side effects.
Marco Torres is a research specialist, writer and consumer advocate for healthy lifestyles. He holds degrees in Public Health and Environmental Science and is a professional speaker on topics such as disease prevention, environmental toxins and health policy.
This article first appeared in Prevent Disease
Millions take statin drugs to help lower their cholesterol, making it one of the most popular classes of prescription drugs on the market today, but like most prescription medications, these drugs are often unnecessary, as most people could lower their LDL cholesterol levels simply by changing their diet and lifestyle. Whether your health is at the top of its game or not, there are a number of valuable plants which can help you manage your cholesterol levels naturally if it's necessary at all. Known as curative herbs, these natural substances help in cholesterol management thereby promoting peak health by balancing and revitalizing the system.
1) Alfalfa Herb
Animal studies indicate that saponins in alfalfa seeds may block absorption of cholesterol and prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. It seems that fibers and chemicals in alfalfa appear to stick to cholesterol, keeping it from staying in the blood or depositing in blood vessels. More of the harmful types of cholesterol leave the body, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) - the "good" kind of cholesterol -- appears to be unaffected. One small human trial found that 120 grams per day of heat-treated alfalfa seeds for eight weeks led to a modest reduction in cholesterol. However, avoid consuming the large amounts of alfalfa seeds (80 to 120 grams per day) for it may potentially cause damage to red blood cells in the body.
2) Holy Basil
Holy Basil reduces cortisol, improves immune system and lowers cholesterol. It is a very safe herb for adrenal fatigue treatment because it does not have the negative stimulating affects of other adrenal fatigue herbs such as ginseng or rhodioloa. In addition to lowering cortisol during exposure to stress, Holy Basil also lowers total cholesterol and boosts your immune system. It also prevents changes in plasma level of corticosterone induced by exposure to both acute and chronic stress.
3) Capsicum Fruit
Capsicum is a spicy herb commonly used in chili and salsa. Extract has stimulating properties and creates increased blood flow. Slow and sluggish circulation that accumulates toxins is quickened, and blood moves to the extremities of the body taking with it needed oxygen and nutrients to the cells. In scientific studies capsicum has been shown to lower high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
4) Garlic Bulb
Garlic has been used throughout the centuries, for treating various illness. The most important and unique feature is its high content of organosulfur substances. Garlic contains at least four times more sulfur than other high sulfur vegetables-onion, broccoli and cauliflower. It keeps the cholesterol levels in our blood in good balance. It does this by lowering serum cholesterol levels while raising ‘good’ HDL-cholesterol levels. Garlic has anti-clotting effects that reduce plaque formation in blood vessels and clots that cause heart disease and stroke.
5) Psyllium
Use of psyllium has been extensively studied as a way to reduce cholesterol levels. An analysis of all double-blind trials in 1997 concluded that a daily amount of 10 grams psyllium lowered cholesterol levels by 5% and LDL cholesterol by 9%. Since then, a large controlled trial found that use of 5.1 grams of psyllium two times per day significantly reduced serum cholesterol as well as LDL-cholesterol. Generally, 5 to 10 grams of psyllium are added to the diet per day to lower cholesterol levels. The combination of psyllium and oat bran may also be effective at lowering LDL cholesterol
6) Skullcap
Skullcap is a unique plant that has been used for a number of herbal remedies, but a Japanese study showed that the plant can help to increase your body’s natural production of the beneficial HDL cholesterol. This means that taking skullcap will help your body to more naturally get rid of the cholesterol on its own.
7) Red Yeast Rice Since 800 A.D., red yeast rice has been employed by the Chinese as both a food and a medicinal agent. Its therapeutic benefits as both a promoter of blood circulation and a digestive stimulant. Researchers have determined that one of the ingredients in red yeast rice, called monacolin K, inhibits the production of cholesterol by stopping the action of a key enzyme in the liver (e.g., HMG-CoA reductase) that is responsible for manufacturing cholesterol. Red yeast rice has been clinically investigated as a therapy for reducing cholesterol in two human trials. In one trial, both men and women taking 1.2 grams (approximately 13.5 mg total monacolins) of a concentrated red yeast rice extract per day for two months had significant decreases in serum cholesterol levels. In addition, people taking red yeast rice had a significant increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol and a decrease in LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Elevated triglycerides were also found to be lowered. Red yeast rice is commercially available in capsules and 2.4 grams (approximately 10 mg monacolins) per day is often recommended in divided amounts for a trial period of up to 12 weeks. If successful after this period of time, it may be used for long-term management of high cholesterol.
8) Fenugreek Seeds
They contain alkaloids (mainly trigonelline) and protein high in lysine (Lysine is an essential amino acid needed for growth and to help maintain nitrogen balance in the body.) and L-tryptophan. Its steroidal saponins are thought to inhibit cholesterol absorption and synthesis. Trials have shown that fenugreek lowers elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, but does not lower HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. The typical range of intake for cholesterol-lowering is 5-30 grams with each meal or 15-90 grams all at once with one meal. As a tincture, 3-4 ml of fenugreek can be taken up to three times per day. Due to the potential uterine stimulating properties of fenugreek, which may cause miscarriages, fenugreek should not be used during pregnancy.
9) Butcher's Broom
Anti-inflammatory; strengthens walls of blood vessels; great for someone going into surgery, as it is used for post-op problems such as thrombosis, etc.; aids circulation to brain, arms and legs; good for the bed-ridden or the elderly; diuretic; lowers bad cholesterol; great for pregnant women and people who stand for long periods of time, as it eliminates swelling.
10) Guggul
It contains resin, volatile oils, and gum. The extract isolates ketonic steroid compounds known as guggulsterones. These compounds have been shown to provide the cholesterol- and triglyceride-lowering actions. Guggul significantly lowers serum triglycerides and cholesterol as well as LDL and VLDL cholesterols (the "bad" cholesterols). At the same time, it raises levels of HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol). As antioxidants, guggulsterones keep LDL cholesterol from oxidizing, an action which protects against atherosclerosis. Guggul has also been shown to reduce the stickiness of platelets--another effect that lowers the risk of coronary artery disease.Daily recommendations for the purified guggul extract are typically based on the amount of guggulsterones in the extract. A common intake of guggulsterones is 25 mg three times per day. Most extracts contain 2.5-5% guggulsterones and can be taken daily for 12 to 24 weeks for lowering high cholesterol and/or triglycerides. Guggul should be used with caution by women with liver disease and in cases of inflammatory bowel disease and diarrhea. A physician should be consulted before treating elevated cholesterol and triglycerides.
11) Licorice Root
Derived from the root of a shrubby perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, It boosts overall health. licorice root appears to promote normal heart rhythm (China Journal of Chinese Materia Medica, 1991, vol. 16) and enhance hormonal balance in women (Endocrinology Japonica, 1988, vol. 35). Plus, it's often used for detoxifying the liver. The plant's root contains a variety of chemical agents, including glycoside glycyrrhizin. The amount of glycyrrhizin varies from 7 percent to 10 percent, depending on growing conditions. In case you decide to use, opt for the DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) form.
12) Hawthorn Berry
Its preparations are widely used by physicians in heart conditions. Tonic for the heart, dilates blood vessels, relaxant, antioxidant. Its bioflavonoid content assists in increasing the flow of blood to the heart muscles, thereby reducing the symptoms of angina; also prevents or reduces degeneration of the blood vessels. Used to treat angina and coronary artery disease; useful for mild congestive heart and irregular heartbeat. Restores blood pressure to normal and is therefore useful for not only high, but low, blood pressure.
Some other herbs used in the management of cholesterol are: Ginseng, turmeric, Cayenne, Aloe Vera, Saffron, Dandelion, True Blue Skullcap, Thyme Herb, Black Cohash, Gaurana, Yellow Dock, Burdock Root, Echinacea Root, Red Clover blooms. Do not consume these herbs without consultation from your Naturopathic Doctor. Doses of these herbs need to be carefully administered to avoid side effects.
Marco Torres is a research specialist, writer and consumer advocate for healthy lifestyles. He holds degrees in Public Health and Environmental Science and is a professional speaker on topics such as disease prevention, environmental toxins and health policy.
This article first appeared in Prevent Disease