The human heart is only the size of a fist and yet this hard-working organ pumps blood to the entire body even against gravity. The importance of a healthy heart cannot be overstressed - yet we engage in lifestyles that are very damaging to it. Build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries and weakening of heart muscles are some causes for heart disease. The good news is that heart disease can be treated and prevented. A high fiber, low fat, low cholesterol and low sodium diet coupled with physical activity go a long way in promoting heart health. Nature has also provided many herbs that help to protect and heal the heart.

Arjuna is the foremost herb recommended by Ayurvedic medicine for heart health. The bark of the Arjuna tree contains Coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinone. This bioenzyme is considered very beneficial for strengthening heart muscles, relieving angina pain, preventing heart attacks and normalizing the heart rythm. Arjuna also contains compounds including §-sitosterol, ellagic acid and arjunic acid which help to maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Ashwagandha is known for maintaining normal blood pressure, stress levels and improving physical fitness. It slows down the circulation of adrenaline which can tear heart muscles. Ashwagandha also helps reduce plasma cortisol, which impairs heart health. It is an adaptogenic that strengthens and gives more flexibility to heart muscles.

Guggul is the best known herb for keeping cholesterol levels normal. It keeps a healthy ratio of LDL & HDL levels. Guggul helps prevent atherosclerosis or fatty plaque build up in arteries and blood vessel tissues. Guggulsterones may also help keep the heart muscle itself healthy. When there is lack of oxygen, free radicals can severely damage the heart - a condition known as "myocardial ischemia". The body tries to counter this with SOD, a key enzyme present in cells that neutralizes free radicals. SOD levels are significantly reduced in damaged heart tissues. Guggulsterones have been found to reverse this decrease by more than two-fold.

Abana is an ayurvedic formulation that contains the above herbs along with more than 40 other herbs and minerals designed to protect and heal heart disorders. Read more on Abana ingredients and their benefits

You may also be interested in the following articles

Natural Methods to control hypertension / high blood pressure

Prevent and reverse heart disease with natural remedies

Herbs for Blood circulation

Blood Circulation Problems and Herbal Remedies

Build heart muscle - strengthen and tone your heart

Hypertension may show no symptoms. Lifestyle changes can control it

References:

National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

Center for Medical Consumers article by Dr. Paul Rosch, MD and Dr. Gravelins

Ref:Cardiovasc Drug Rev. 2007 Winter;25(4):375-90

Pubmed.org

Himalaya Herbals Company



Other Heart Healthy Products

Abana
Cardio-protective, cardio-vascular health

Guggul
Helps maintain normal cholesterol levels

Arjuna
Cardioprotective, Maintains normal blood circulation and blood pressure