Medicinal herbs for the heart exert notable actions on this all-important organ. Those herbs which augment the strength of the heart contractions (called cardiotonic herbs), the foxglove plant being the most important, are especially appreciated.
Besides strengthening, herbs for the heart decisively contribute to the prevention of severe heart conditions, such as angina pectoris and heart attacks.
Cardiotonic herbs are divided into two groups:
- Of the foxglove type: Those whose active components are glycosides are similar to those of the foxglove plant. They have an intense cardiotonic action and must be administered with extreme caution because the toxic dose is quite close to the therapeutic dose.
- Non-foxglove type: These herbs improve heart functions, though they do not contain glycosides similar to those of foxglove. They may be administered without as much caution as those of the former group. Cardiotonic herbs and diuretic ones are the basis for the phytotherapeutic treatment of heart insufficiency (the inability of the heart to fulfill its role of blood pumping).
Top Herbs for The Heart
| Cactus | Camphor tree | Digitalis foxglove |
| Foxglove | Foxglove of large flowers | Hawthorn |
| Hedge hyssop | Lily of the valley | May lily |
| Motherwort | Queen of the night | Scotch broom |
| Wolly foxglove | Yellow Adonis | Yellow foxglove |
Cardiotonic Herbs
Cardiotonic Herbs increase the heart contraction strength and improve its functioning. Foxglove is the model for all cardiotonic plants.
| Balm | Yellow Adonis |
| Lily of the valley | Hawthorn |
| Foxglove | Hedge hyssop |
| Motherwort | Scotch broom |
| Kidney bean | Meadowsweet |
| Mountain holly | Rosemary |
| Prick wood | Oleander |
| Sea buckthorn |
Heart Disorders
Heart affections—These herbs are recommended for people suffering from any heart disease due to their gentle heart-invigorating effect, their low sodium content (which increases blood pressure), and their diuretic effect, which has no risks.
Tachycardia is an increase in the heartbeat rate. It should be treated when it occurs at rest, with no physical cause to explain it. Usually, all cardiotonic herbs, which increase heart contraction strength and thus effectiveness, also reduce its frequency. Herbs with sedative and balancing properties on the autonomic nervous system can also stop tachycardia.
Palpitations are the disagreeable perception of your heartbeat due to a sudden change. States of anxiety, certain medicines, the consumption of toxic products such as coffee, tobacco, and alcohol, and, more rarely, specific heart dysfunctions may cause palpitations. On an electrocardiogram, they are shown as extrasystoles.
Besides the antispasmodic, sedative, and heart-invigorating herbs we indicate, profound treatment of the underlying anxiety is required, and giving up the consumption of coffee, tobacco, alcohol, or other toxic substances.
Arrhythmia is an alteration of the heartbeat rate, be it irregular, too slow (bradycardia), or too fast (tachycardia). It may be a consequence of anxiety, certain medicines, and the consumption of toxic products such as coffee, tobacco, and alcohol. In these cases, it is seldom severe and disappears when the cause is corrected. However, there are other cases in which arrhythmia may be a symptom of heart dysfunctions that demand an accurate diagnosis by a professional.
Angina pectoris – An affliction whose symptoms are sudden pain in the chest, occasionally passing to the left arm, with a sensation of imminent death. This affliction is caused by a spasm or narrowing of the heart arteries that feed the heart muscle. Phytotherapeutic treatment is based on antispasmodic (which alleviates the spasm of heart arteries), vasodilating (which dilates these arteries), and soothing herbs.
When the arterial spasm is due to arteriosclerosis (thickening and narrowing) of the heart arteries, the herbs recommended for this arterial affliction are also helpful.
Myocardial infarction – The complete obstruction of coronary arteries, which produces the death of part of the heart muscle. Besides the recommended herbs for angina pectoris, phytotherapy advises using plants to prevent heart attacks and arteriosclerosis. This ailment obstructs coronary arteries and the rehabilitation of people who have suffered those ailments. The blood-thinning herbs also exert a preventive action.
Frequently Asked Question
Which herbs for the heart show strong evidence for cardiovascular support?
1. Hawthorn: This flowering shrub’s berries, leaves, and flowers contain antioxidants and compounds that improve blood flow and, potentially, blood pressure. It’s a traditional heart tonic.
2. Garlic: Widely used in cooking, garlic might modestly improve blood pressure and reduce cholesterol.
3. Turmeric: The curcumin in turmeric gives it anti-inflammatory properties that might benefit the heart.
Can herbs for the heart replace heart medications?
No. Even promising herbs are supplements, not substitutes for professional medical advice and prescribed treatment. Always talk to your doctor about using herbs alongside heart medication.
How does cinnamon benefit the heart?
Cinnamon might reduce blood sugar levels and improve cholesterol, potentially reducing heart disease risk. However, more research is needed for definitive recommendations.
Are there herbs for the heart that lower blood pressure?
Some herbs like garlic and hawthorn show modest blood-pressure-lowering effects. However, don’t rely on them alone if you have hypertension—seek professional care.
What’s the deal with coriander/cilantro and heart health?
Coriander (seeds of the cilantro plant) might lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol due to its diuretic properties. More studies are needed to establish its effects on heart health specifically.
Are there risks with using herbs for the heart?
Yes. Herbs for the heart can interact with medications (including certain heart medications), cause side effects, and might be harmful in specific medical conditions. Always consult your doctor before starting any herbal remedy.
Can herbs for the heart help prevent heart disease?
Potentially, but there’s no single “magic” herb. Herbs supporting blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation might contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Are herbal teas or supplements better?
It depends on the herb and your goals. Discuss the best form for your needs with your doctor or a qualified herbalist for personalized advice.
Where can I find reliable information about herbs for the heart?
Look for resources from reputable sources like:
1. University medical centers (.edu websites)
2. Government-run health websites (like the National Institutes of Health: https://www.nih.gov/)
3. Well-established herbal medicine organizations
What are the best ways to incorporate herbs for the heart?
Focus on dietary inclusion first: Use garlic, turmeric, etc., regularly in cooking.
Talk to your doctor about supplementing herbs with known potential benefits if approved for your case.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 212, 213, 214. Print. [herbs for the heart]
- https://www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/seeds-of-knowledge/herbs-to-help-support-a-healthy-and-happy-heart
- https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/do-herbs-and-spices-have-health-benefits
- https://blog.mercy.com/herbs-spices-heart-health/
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/herbs