Heart, an organ that works from the day you are born to the day you die. Essentially the most important organ of the body, it works 24×7 without stops or breaks. How essential is it to ensure the health of such a vital organ? Very much, for sure! In a survey, it was found that over 58% of all deaths have been on account of a heart disease. In times like these, when there are an array of heart diseases prevalent, proper care of this critical organ is a must. Herbs and spices are high in anti-oxidant content and are easily available in the household. Its use daily in the diet will ensure a healthy heart. This makes them an ideal remedy for many heart conditions. And as the saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure”, continuous use over a period of time is better than popping pills when diagnosed. Here is a list of common herbs and spices that will ensure a healthy heart.
Turmeric or as its commonly called, ‘haldi’, is the spice which gives the distinctive yellow color to most of the dishes. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has a powerful healing potential. Curcumin helps in the maintenance of a healthy blood pressure and prevent blood clots. Also, it can raise HDL cholesterol levels, commonly referred as the good cholesterol. It has an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory property that is effective against an array of heart diseases, ensuring excellent cardiovascular health.
One of the most powerful herb, this bulbous extension has extensively elaborate heart-healing properties. It contains two compounds, sulfur and quercetin which have antioxidant properties. It also has the ability to reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients and prevent clot formation.. Also they decrease levels of unhealthy fats in the blood, thus reducing cholesterol problems. To avoid heart problems, onions are best consumed raw.
Often recommended by cardiologists, garlic is one of the most healthy herb and spice in the world. Used for an array of ailments from treating wounds to healing the heart, garlic is easily the most widely used herb. Its blood thinning and anti-inflammatory properties render it to be so efficient against heart ailments. Also it has been shown to help lower the blood pressure and possess cholesterol-lowering properties.
Cilantro, also known as coriander or ‘dhaniya’ is another healthy herb very commonly used to reduce cardiovascular risks. Often used in most Indian and Chinese cuisines, this herb is rich in β-carotenes which helps in cholesterol-lowering and blood sugar-lowering effects it is also known to help increase immunity multifold, effectively lowering cardiovascular risks.
Often taken in teas and coffees, this spice does wonders to the body. This contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde which seems to have effective blood-sugar lowering properties. Also known as a circulatory-stimulant, it helps in lowering bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol. Its property of improving insulin resistance makes it useful in diabetes management.
A Powerful anti–inflammatory agent, this herb is often regarded as a natural substitute for pain-killers like paracetamol. Ginger contains a set of compounds called gingerols acts an excellent blood thinner. It also lowers cholesterol and prevents blood clotting. In heart diseases, where blood vessels become clogged and lead to heart attack, ginger prevents the blood from clotting. This in turn helps maintain a healthy heart.
Fenugreek or methi seeds are an important ingredient in Indian cuisines. it contains a compound called galactomannan, which plays a key role in maintaining the heart health. Additionally, it is a rich source of potassium, which in turn counters the action of sodium to help control heart rate and blood pressure.
Often sprinkled over Italian delicacies, this is a very well-known spice. Vernacularly known as ajwain, oregano is a herb that helps in controlling the cholesterol levels significantly. Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, this herb can combat the free radicals that cause heart disease. It also acts as a powerful an anti-inflammatory agent, ensuring a healthy heart.
Another popular herb for the heart is hawthorn. It is widely used for an array of heart diseases such as angina, congestive heart failure, arrhythmia, etc. Rich in flavonoids, it has been found to strengthen the heart. It has been known to strengthen blood vessels, prevent blood clots and restore the heart muscle wall. It also aids in lowering cholesterol.
Commonly called as laung, this wonder spice has applications not just in diseases of the heart but also of various other organs. Clove contains a chemical called eugenol which helps lower the blood sugar levels along with relieving heart burns. It also lowers the cholesterol levels reducing risks of plaque formation on the heart walls and in turn useful for hypertensive patients for lowering blood pressure. This aromatic spice has powerful anti-inflammatory properties too, thus serving as an excellent cardio protective.
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