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Herbs for the Heart Cardiovascular System
The best-known herb for the heart in western herbalism is Hawthorn. The extract
of hawthorn can increase blood flow to the heart muscle itself, helping to
counteract one of the most common modern causes of death in industrial
countries--heart attack due to lack of blood flow to the heart.
In pharmacological tests on both animals and humans, hawthorn has been shown to
improve the contractility of the heart muscle (which can lead to a stronger
pumping action of the heart), increase cardiac performance and output, lower the
peripheral vascular resistance (reducing the workload of the heart), steady the
heartbeat (antiarrhythmic effect), as well as increasing the heart's tolerance
to oxygen deficiency, such as might happen during stress or excitement, or in
diseases where the arteries are partially blocked."
Hawthorn can be used as part of a comprehensive wellness program to promote
cardiovascular health. Hawthorn leaf, stem and flower extracts have been shown
to promote healthy heart function by improving blood and nutrient flow to the
heart muscle. A healthy heart helps maintain healthy blood flow and nutrient
delivery throughout the body.
If you are dealing with a chronic health condition, widen your circle of support by going online. Participating in online discussion groups may help people with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, feel more hopeful and better able to cope with their condition, a recent study suggests. Find a trusted site with a professionally-moderated discussion board and review anything you learn with your healthcare provider before changing how you care for yourself.
"Smoking kills. If you're killed, you've lost a very important part of your life."
--- Brooke Shields
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