Natural Herbs to Lower Cholesterol Naturally

Herbs to lower cholesterol are a fairly new science and research is still being conducted on many medicinal herbs and, as results come in, the treatments will be refined.

Increased LDL cholesterol has become a major health issue in today’s society. Due to this, many people are searching for new ways to lower cholesterol naturally.

Natural supplements to lower cholesterol are often preferred to their drug counterparts because of fewer contraindications and side effects.

As research on cholesterol and triglycerides increases the number of potential treatments may increase as well. On the timeline of herbal and traditional medicines, research on herbs that lower cholesterol is very young and still developing.

While most of the medicinal herbs are relatively safe and often beneficial for other reasons as well, it is wise to consult a physician to have cholesterol levels checked before and during any herbal treatment program.

Natural Herbs to Lower Cholesterol

Guggul or Mukul Myrrh Tree (Commiphora wightii)

Guggul is the yellowish resin produced by the stem of the mukul myrrh tree.

This Indian herb has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries and is gaining popularity as a supplement to lower cholesterol levels.

It appears to increase the uptake of cholesterol by the liver and also assist with breaking down LDL.

Studies have shown a potential decrease of 10 to 27% in cholesterol levels with the use of 25 mg of guggulsterone (the active ingredient in guggul extract) three times daily.

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic has been used for thousands of years as a flavoring for foods and recently has shown promise as a supplement to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood.

Garlic helps reduce LDL and triglyceride levels in the blood. It also prevents the oxidation of LDL cholesterol as well. In some studies, it has been shown to lower cholesterol levels by around 12 percent.

Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna)

This is another traditional Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries. It has been used to treat many cardiovascular conditions. It has shown promise as an herbal supplement to lower cholesterol in the coronary artery preventing build-up.

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

This herb has great antioxidant properties and has been used to treat high cholesterol as well.

It works by blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines. The cholesterol is converted into bile acids and these acids are then excreted.

Other herbs that have been found or thought to be beneficial in lowering cholesterol

• Psyllium – (Plantago psyllium, Plantago afra)
• Elderberry – (Sambucus nigra)
• Fenugreek – (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
• Oat Straw – (Avena sativa)
• Artichoke – (Cynara scolymus)
• Holy Basil – (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
• Panax Ginseng – (Panax ginseng)
• Alfalfa – (Medicago sativa)
• Chinese Knotweed or Fo-Ti – (Polygonum multiflorum)
• Myrrh – (Commiphora myrrha)
• Garcinia Cambogia – (Garcinia cambogia)
• Cranberries – (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
• Wild Yam – (Dioscorea villosa)
• Maritime Pine Bark – (Pinus pinaster)
• Black Walnut – (Juglans nigra)
• Cat’s Claw – (Uncaria tomentosa)
• Lemon Grass – (Cymbopogon citratus)
• Yellow Dock – (Rumex crispus)
• Carob – (Ceratonia siliqua)
• Borage – (Borago officinalis)
• Balloon Flower – (Platycodon grandiflorus)
• Asafetida – (Ferula assa-foetida)
• Avocado – (Persea americana)

The Use of Herbal Supplements to Lower Cholesterol Levels

Increasing levels of LDL cholesterol have people scrambling to find natural ways to lower cholesterol. Researchers are working on finding new ways to lower cholesterol with natural herbs. These herbs offer safer, and yet still effective, methods for lowering cholesterol than many prescription drugs.

Although these treatments are generally safe, as with any new treatment regimen, it is important to consult with a physician to monitor the program. These herbs offer an option to lower cholesterol naturally and may be an important part of any daily supplement plan.

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Thordur Sturluson

Thor Sturluson has a BS in Biology, majoring in Botany, from the University of Maine and a masters degree in Zoology from the Open University in London. He's an experienced Biologist with a history of working in the environmental services industry. A trained scuba diver and researcher, Thor's has a keen interest in nature conservation and animal/plant protection. His work and botany passion has made The Herbal Resource what it is.

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