Folk remedies to maintain heart health

Folk remedies to support the health of the heart: deep analysis and proven recipes

I. Introduction to the world of traditional medicine for the heart

In the modern world, where cardiovascular diseases (SSZ) occupy a leading position in the list of causes of mortality, the search for effective methods of preventing and maintaining heart health becomes extremely important. Along with traditional medicine, folk remedies and methods of treatment based on centuries of experience and the use of natural components are becoming increasingly popular. These means, often available and safe with proper use, can become a valuable addition to the main treatment prescribed by a doctor, and help strengthen the cardiovascular system, improve its functioning and reduce the risk of complications. It is important to understand that folk remedies do not replace qualified medical care, but serve only as an auxiliary tool in a comprehensive approach to maintaining heart health.

II. Herbs – a gift of nature for a healthy heart

Many herbs have unique properties that have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system. They can reduce cholesterol, strengthen blood vessels, normalize blood pressure, improve blood circulation and have an antioxidant effect.

• Hawthorn (Crataegus): An unconditional leader among herbs for the heart. Contains flavonoids, proshenidines and other biologically active substances that expand coronary vessels, improve myocardial contractility, reduce blood pressure and have a calming effect on the nervous system.

  • The mechanism of action: Flavonoids of hawthorn improve myocardial blood supply, increase its resistance to oxygen starvation (hypoxia). Procianidines strengthen the walls of blood vessels, making them more elastic. Hawthorn also has antioxidant properties, protecting the heart cells from damage by free radicals.
  • Application: Tincture of hawthorn (sold in pharmacies) is taken 20-30 drops 3 times a day before meals. Tea from flowers or fruits of hawthorn is prepared at the rate of 1 tablespoon of raw materials per glass of boiling water. Insist 30 minutes, strain and drink 1/2 cup 2-3 times a day.
  • Cautions: Hawthorn can enhance the effect of some heart drugs, so before its use it is necessary to consult a doctor. It is not recommended to take hawthorn during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In rare cases, side effects are possible in the form of dizziness, nausea, reduction of blood pressure.
  • Scientific research: Numerous clinical studies confirm the effectiveness of hawthorn in heart failure, angina pectoris and arrhythmias.
  • Examples of recipes:
    • Tincture of hawthorn with honey: Mix 100 ml of hawthorn tincture with 1 tablespoon of honey. Take 1 teaspoon 3 times a day.
    • Hairy -hairy tea with rosehips: Mix 1 tablespoon of hawthorn fruits and 1 tablespoon of rosehip fruits. Pour 2 cups of boiling water, insist 1 hour, strain and drink 1 glass 2 times a day.

• Valerian medicinal (Valeriana Officinalis): It has a soothing and vasodilating effect, helps reduce blood pressure and relieve nervous tension, which can negatively affect the work of the heart.

  • The mechanism of action: Valerian contains essential oils and valepotrians, which have a sedative effect on the central nervous system, reduce excitability and normalize sleep. The vasodilating effect of valerian is due to its ability to relax the smooth muscles of the vessels.
  • Application: Valerian tincture (sold in pharmacies) is taken 20-30 drops 3-4 times a day. Tea from the root of Valerian is prepared at the rate of 1 teaspoon of chopped root for a glass of boiling water. Insist 15 minutes, strain and drink 1/2 cup 2-3 times a day.
  • Cautions: Valerian can cause drowsiness and reduce the concentration of attention. It is not recommended to take valerian before driving a car or performing work requiring increased attentiveness. In rare cases, side effects are possible in the form of dizziness, nausea, stomach disorders.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the effectiveness of valerian in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety and nervous tension.
  • Examples of recipes:
    • Tea from Valerian with Melissa: Mix 1 teaspoon of chopped root root and 1 teaspoon of lemon balm grass. Pour a glass of boiling water, insist for 15 minutes, strain and drink before bedtime.
    • Bath with Valerian: Add 100 ml of valerian tincture to a warm bath. Take a bath for 15-20 minutes before bedtime.

• Motherland (Leonurus Cardiaca): It has a pronounced soothing and hypotensive effect, helps reduce heart rate and normalize blood pressure.

  • The mechanism of action: The motherwort contains alkaloids, flavonoids and other biologically active substances that have a sedative effect on the central nervous system and reduce the excitability of the heart muscle. The motherwort also has vasodilating properties.
  • Application: Poostless tincture (sold in pharmacies) is taken 30-50 drops 3-4 times a day. The infusion of grass of the motherwort is prepared at the rate of 2 tablespoons of raw materials per glass of boiling water. Insist 1 hour, strain and drink 1/3 cup 3 times a day.
  • Cautions: The motherwort can reduce blood pressure, so it should be used with caution to people with hypotension. It is not recommended to take motherwort during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In rare cases, side effects are possible in the form of drowsiness, dizziness, allergic reactions.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the effectiveness of motherwort in the treatment of neurosis, hypertension and tachycardia.
  • Examples of recipes:
    • Infusion of motherwort with honey: Mix 50 ml of motherwort tincture with 1 tablespoon of honey. Take 1 teaspoon 3 times a day.
    • Mint a motherwort: Mix 1 tablespoon of motherwort grass and 1 tablespoon of mint grass. Pour 2 cups of boiling water, insist 1 hour, strain and drink 1 glass 2 times a day.

• Garlic (Allium sativum): Contains allicin, a substance that has antioxidant, anti -agent (prevents the formation of blood clots) and lipidemic (reduces cholesterol) properties.

  • The mechanism of action: Allicine reduces the level of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and increases the level of “good” cholesterol (HDL). It also dilutes blood, preventing blood clots, and expands blood vessels, improving blood circulation.
  • Application: It is recommended to use 1-2 cloves of garlic per day fresh. You can also use garlic drugs (capsules, tablets), but it is important to follow the instructions for use.
  • Cautions: Garlic can cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, so it should be used with caution to people with gastritis, stomach ulcer or intestines. Garlic can also enhance the effect of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood), therefore, before use, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
  • Scientific research: Numerous studies confirm the positive effect of garlic on the cardiovascular system.
  • Examples of recipes:
    • Garlic water: Grind 2-3 cloves of garlic, pour a glass of warm water, insist 1 hour and drink.
    • Honey with garlic: Grind 5 cloves of garlic, mix with 1 glass of honey and take 1 teaspoon 2-3 times a day.

• Calendula (Calendula officinalis): It has anti -inflammatory, antioxidant and cardiotonic properties, improves blood circulation and strengthens the heart muscle.

  • The mechanism of action: Calendula contains carotenoids, flavonoids and other biologically active substances that have anti -inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It also improves blood microcirculation and stimulates tissue regeneration.
  • Application: The infusion of calendula flowers is prepared at the rate of 1 tablespoon of raw materials per glass of boiling water. Insist 30 minutes, strain and drink 1/2 cup 2-3 times a day.
  • Cautions: Calendula can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to plants of the Astrov family (chamomile, chrysanthemum, etc.). It is not recommended to use calendula during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties of calendula.
  • Examples of recipes:
    • Calendula tea with chamomile: Mix 1 tablespoon of calendula flowers and 1 tablespoon of chamomile flowers. Pour 2 cups of boiling water, insist 30 minutes, strain and drink 1 glass 2 times a day.
    • Calendula oil: Insist calendula flowers in vegetable oil (olive, sunflower) for 2 weeks. Use to massage the heart area.

• St. John’s wort permeated (Hypericum Perforatum): It has antidepressive and antioxidant properties, helps relieve nervous tension and improve mood, which indirectly positively affects the functioning of the heart.

  • The mechanism of action: St. John’s wort contains hypericin, hyperoside and other biologically active substances that have an antidepressant effect, increase serotonin levels in the brain and improve mood. It also has antioxidant properties, protecting the cells from damage to free radicals.
  • Application: The infusion of St. John’s wort grass is prepared at the rate of 1 tablespoon of raw materials per glass of boiling water. Insist 30 minutes, strain and drink 1/2 cup 2-3 times a day.
  • Cautions: St. John’s wort can interact with some drugs, including antidepressants, anticoagulants and contraceptives. Therefore, before its use, it is necessary to consult a doctor. St. John’s wort also increases the sensitivity of the skin to the sunlight, so during its use, a long stay in the sun should be avoided.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the effectiveness of St. John’s wort in the treatment of depression.
  • Examples of recipes:
    • Mint St. John’s wort: Mix 1 tablespoon of St. John’s wort grass and 1 tablespoon of mint grass. Pour 2 cups of boiling water, insist 30 minutes, strain and drink 1 glass 2 times a day.
    • St. John’s wort oil: Insist the grass of St. John’s wort in vegetable oil (olive, sunflower) for 2 weeks. Use to massage the heart area.

• Naked licorice (Glycyrhiza Glabra): It has anti -inflammatory, antioxidant and cardioprotective properties, helps normalize blood pressure and improve blood circulation.

  • The mechanism of action: The licorice contains glycyrrhine acid, which has anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also helps to keep sodium in the body, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure.
  • Application: A decoction of the root of the licorice is prepared at the rate of 1 teaspoon of chopped root for a glass of water. Boil for 10 minutes, insist 30 minutes, strain and drink 1/4 cup 3-4 times a day.
  • Cautions: A licorice can increase blood pressure, so it should be used with caution to people with hypertension. It is not recommended to take a licorice during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as with diseases of the kidneys and liver. Long -term consumption of a licorice can lead to a delay in fluid in the body and hypokalemia (a decrease in potassium in the blood).
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties of the licorice.
  • Examples of recipes:
    • Tea from a licorice with chamomile: Mix 1 teaspoon of chopped licorice root and 1 teaspoon of chamomile flowers. Pour a glass of boiling water, insist 30 minutes, strain and drink.
    • Syrup from licorice: Mix the decoction of the root of the licorice with honey in a ratio of 1: 1. Take 1 teaspoon 3 times a day.

III. Food – the basis of heart health

Proper nutrition plays a key role in maintaining the health of the heart. Some foods have special properties that help strengthen the cardiovascular system and reduce the risk of SVD.

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Contained in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, herring), linen seeds, walnuts and other products. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the level of triglycerides in the blood, prevent blood clots, reduce blood pressure and have an anti-inflammatory effect.

  • The mechanism of action: Omega-3 fatty acids (eicopascentenic acid (EPC) and daily oxenic acid (DGC)) affect lipid metabolism, reducing the level of triglycerides and increasing the level of “good” cholesterol (HPVP). They also have anti -aggregate properties, preventing platelet gluing and blood clots. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect, reducing inflammation in the vessels.
  • Application: It is recommended to consume fatty fish 2-3 times a week. You can also take additives with omega-3 fatty acids, but it is important to follow the instructions for use.
  • Cautions: High doses of omega-3 fatty acids can cause blood thinning and increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, before taking additives with omega-3 fatty acids, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you take anticoagulants.
  • Scientific research: Numerous studies confirm the positive effect of omega-3 fatty acids on the cardiovascular system.

• Fiber: Contained in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and legumes. Fiber reduces blood cholesterol levels, normalizes blood pressure and improves digestion.

  • The mechanism of action: Fiber binds to cholesterol in the intestines and removes it from the body, reducing the level of cholesterol in the blood. It also helps to normalize blood pressure by reducing sodium levels in the body. In addition, fiber improves digestion and prevents constipation.
  • Application: It is recommended to use 25-30 grams of fiber per day. To do this, you need to include fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and legumes in the diet.
  • Cautions: An increase in fiber consumption should be carried out gradually to avoid disorders of the gastrointestinal tract (bloating, flatulence).
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the positive effect of fiber on the cardiovascular system and general health.

• Potassium: Contained in bananas, potatoes, spinach, avocados and other products. Potassium helps normalize blood pressure and reduces the risk of arrhythmia.

  • The mechanism of action: Potassium is an important electrolyte that is involved in the regulation of blood pressure. It helps to remove sodium from the body, reducing blood pressure. Potassium is also necessary for the normal functioning of the heart and prevention of arrhythmia.
  • Application: It is recommended to consume products rich in potassium daily.
  • Cautions: People with kidney diseases should be caused with caution, rich in potassium, as this can lead to hyperkalemia (increased blood potassium in the blood).
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the positive effect of potassium on blood pressure and heart function.

• Magnesium: Contained in nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables and whole grains. Magnesium helps normalize blood pressure, reduces the risk of arrhythmia and improves the function of endothelium (the inner shell of blood vessels).

  • The mechanism of action: Magnesium is involved in the regulation of blood pressure, relaxing the smooth muscles of the vessels. It also reduces the risk of arrhythmia, stabilizing the electrical activity of the heart. In addition, magnesium improves endothelium function, preventing the development of atherosclerosis.
  • Application: It is recommended to consume products rich in magnesium daily. You can also take additives with magnesium, but it is important to follow the instructions for use.
  • Cautions: High doses of magnesium can cause disorder of the gastrointestinal tract (diarrhea). People with kidney diseases should take care of additives with magnesium.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the positive effect of magnesium on blood pressure and heart function.

• Antioxidants: Contained in fruits, vegetables, berries and tea. Antioxidants protect the heart cells from damage by free radicals, preventing the development of atherosclerosis and other SVDs.

  • The mechanism of action: Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage cells. Protecting the cells from damage, antioxidants prevent the development of atherosclerosis and other SVDs.
  • Application: It is recommended to use foods rich in antioxidants daily.
  • Cautions: Some antioxidants (for example, vitamin E) in high doses can have a negative effect on health. Therefore, it is important to observe the measure when taking additives with antioxidants.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the positive effect of antioxidants on the cardiovascular system and general health.

• Beetroot juice: Contains nitrates that turn into nitrogen oxide in the body. Nitrogen oxide expands blood vessels, reduces blood pressure and improves blood circulation.

  • The mechanism of action: Nitrates contained in beetroot juice turn into nitrogen oxide in the body. Nitrogen oxide relaxes the smooth muscles of the vessels, expanding them and reducing blood pressure. It also improves blood circulation, delivering more oxygen to the heart and other organs.
  • Application: It is recommended to consume 1-2 cups of beet juice per day.
  • Cautions: Beetroot juice can color urine red. This is not a sign of the disease. People with hypotension should be caused by beetroot juice, as it can reduce blood pressure.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the positive effect of beetroot juice on blood pressure and blood circulation.

• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a substance that has anti -inflammatory, antioxidant and cardioprotective properties. Kurkumin reduces blood cholesterol levels, prevents blood clots and improves endothelium function.

  • The mechanism of action: Kurkumin has anti -inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the vessels. It also has an antioxidant effect, protecting the cells from damage by free radicals. In addition, curcumin reduces blood cholesterol levels, prevents blood clots and improves endothelium function.
  • Application: It is recommended to add turmeric to food. You can also take additives with turmeric, but it is important to follow the instructions for use.
  • Cautions: Turmeric can cause an disorder of the gastrointestinal tract in some people.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the positive effect of turmeric on the cardiovascular system.

IV. Other folk remedies and methods

In addition to herbs and food, there are other folk remedies and methods that can help maintain heart health.

• Honey: It has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties, improves blood circulation and strengthens the heart muscle.

  • The mechanism of action: Honey contains antioxidants that protect the cells from damage by free radicals. It also has an anti -inflammatory effect, reducing inflammation in the vessels. In addition, honey improves blood circulation and strengthens the heart muscle.
  • Application: It is recommended to use 1-2 tablespoons of honey per day.
  • Cautions: Honey can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to bee products.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the positive effect of honey on the cardiovascular system.

• Propolis: It has antioxidant, anti -inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, strengthens the walls of blood vessels and improves blood circulation.

  • The mechanism of action: Propolis contains flavonoids that have antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. It also has an antimicrobial effect, protecting from infections. In addition, propolis strengthens the walls of blood vessels and improves blood circulation.
  • Application: It is recommended to use propolis tincture (sold in pharmacies) at 20-30 drops 3 times a day.
  • Cautions: Propolis can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to bee products.
  • Scientific research: Studies confirm the positive effect of propolis on the cardiovascular system.

• Massage of the heart area: Improves blood circulation, relieves tension and improves heart function.

  • The mechanism of action: Massage of the heart of the heart improves blood circulation, stimulating blood flow to the heart and other organs. He also relieves stress and improves heart function.
  • Application: Massage of the heart can be performed independently or with the help of a specialist.
  • Cautions: Massage of the heart area is contraindicated in acute heart disease, such as myocardial infarction and angina pectoris.

• Respiratory exercises: They help reduce blood pressure, relieve nervous tension and improve the general health of health.

  • The mechanism of action: Respiratory exercises help reduce blood pressure, stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. They also relieve nervous tension and improve the general health.
  • Application: Respiratory exercises can be performed daily for 10-15 minutes.
  • Cautions: Respiratory exercises have no contraindications.

• Physical activity: Strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood circulation, reduces blood pressure and blood cholesterol.

  • The mechanism of action: Physical activity strengthens the heart muscle, increasing its strength and endurance. It also improves blood circulation, stimulating blood flow to the heart and other organs. In addition, physical activity reduces blood pressure and blood cholesterol.
  • Application: It is recommended to engage in moderate physical activity at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. It can be walking, running, swimming, cycling and other types of activity.
  • Cautions: People with heart disease should consult a doctor before starting physical activity.

V. Important warnings and recommendations

• Consultation with a doctor: Before using any folk remedies to maintain heart health, you need to consult a doctor. It will help to determine the most suitable drugs and methods of treatment, as well as exclude possible contraindications and interactions with drugs.
• Individual approach: Each person is unique, therefore it is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the body when choosing folk remedies. What is suitable for one person may not be suitable for another.
• Moderation: It is important to observe moderation when using folk remedies. Do not abuse herbs, food and other treatment methods.
• Complex approach: Folk remedies should be used in combination with traditional treatment methods prescribed by a doctor. Only an integrated approach can provide the best results.
• Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular physical activity, rejection of smoking and moderate use of alcohol, is a key factor in maintaining heart health.
• Do not replace medical care: Folk remedies do not replace qualified medical care. If symptoms of a heart disease appear, consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

VI. Conclusion

Folk remedies can be a valuable addition to the main treatment prescribed by a doctor and help strengthen the cardiovascular system, improve its functioning and reduce the risk of complications. However, it is important to remember that folk remedies do not replace qualified medical care, but serve only as an auxiliary tool in a comprehensive approach to maintaining the health of the heart. Before using any folk remedies, it is necessary to consult a doctor and follow all the recommendations for use.