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Herbs That Reduce Cholesterol in Arteries

Cholesterol in arteries can be a problem when levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs, or "bad" cholesterol) get too high. When this cholesterol builds up on artery walls, it creates plaque, which solidifies and makes it difficult for blood to flow, potentially leading to heart attack or stroke. High-density lipoproteins (HDLs, or "good" cholesterol) are believed to carry cholesterol away from arteries and deposit it in the liver, allowing it to be eliminated from the body. Keeping a good balance of low LDLs and moderate HDLs is important to artery health, and a number of herbs can help.

  1. Garlic

    • Garlic is a proven fighter of bad cholesterol. Elements found in garlic help raise HDL (good) cholesterol and contribute to anticlotting in the bloodstream, thus helping to avoid plaque buildup. Also, oxidized LDL cholesterol, which is a big risk factor for plaque formation, was found to be reduced when garlic was introduced to a diet. Any kind of garlic will help reduce cholesterol buildup, but aged garlic extract supplements, such as Kyolic, showed the greatest results in one clinical trial. Garlic supplements can be found at most health food and drug stores. Though garlic and garlic supplements have not been shown to cause major health dangers, follow directions on supplement package to assure the most appropriate and safe usage.

    Capsicum

    • Capsicum is a family of edible plants that tend to contain a beneficial substance called capsaicin. Spicy peppers, such as jalapenos and cayenne peppers, tend to contain the highest concentrations of this helpful element, but it is usually present in other types of peppers as well. Capsicum fruits tend to speed up blood flow in the veins, helping to prevent cholesterol from getting a chance to stick to arterial walls. Clinical trials have shown that these beneficial plants can lower high cholesterol levels.

    Psyllium

    • It has long been known that fiber helps lower cholesterol levels. Psyllium, a small seed found on an herb called Plantago ovata, is rich in soluble fiber and has been proved through scientific research to lower cholesterol levels. When 10 grams of psyllium per day were added to the diet of test subjects, an analysis of studies showed that LDL cholesterol can be lowered by 9%. Psyllium also tends to have the best results when used along with whole oats, which are also excellent at lowering cholesterol. Taken with a bowl of oatmeal, oat bread, or another oat product, psyllium is a great tool at removing harmful cholesterol in arteries.

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