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Herbs for Controlling Cholesterol

Cholesterol, a waxy substance that forms a plaque like coating on the walls of the arteries, results usually from fatty foods and a stagnant lifestyle. While there is a plethora of medication available at pharmacies to bring down your cholesterol, there are a few effective herbs as well than can lead to similar results.

  1. Garlic and Ginger

    • Garlic, considered one of the most potent of cholesterol-lowering herbs, can bring down the bad cholesterol or LDL and increase the level of good cholesterol or HDL. It also can lower triglycerides. The active allicin compound in garlic prevents buildup of plaque in the arteries by hindering LDL oxidation.

      Another herbal cholesterol remedy comes in the form of ginger. It helps by preventing absorption of cholesterol and stimulating cholesterol conversion to bile acids. Have as much of ginger and garlic as possible, in foods or in the raw state.

    Cayenne Pepper and Turmeric

    • Another cholesterol-lowering herb is cayenne pepper. This helps stabilize blood pressure, stimulates blood circulation and brings down cholesterol levels by fat breakdown and subsequent excretion of body fat.

      Turmeric is also an efficient cholesterol-lowering herb that prevents absorption in the intestines and helps in fat excretion as well.

    Artichoke Leaf and Green Tea

    • Extract of the artichoke leaf is rich in cybarin that hastens the liver's bile production and the gall bladder's bile flow, both of which help in enhanced cholesterol excretion.

      Green tea, on the other hand, hinders functions of enzymes that stimulate blood vessel narrowing. It also helps with antioxidant features that keep artery damage at bay while regulating blood sugar.

    Guggul and Red Yeast Rice

    • Guggul, a herb available in Indian specialty grocery stores, is one of the most effective of cholesterol-lowering herbs. According to studies, it has been the reason behind drastic lowering of LDL and triglycerides and elevating of HDL in patients with cholesterol complaints. It helps keep arteriosclerosis at bay and has no side effects, which make it a popular prescription herb, too.

      Red yeast rice, available at specialty grocery stores, helps reduce cholesterol by slowing down the process of production of the substance altogether. Though it is a sure shot herbal remedy for the problem, it should be used with care, especially by people with liver or kidney ailments or infections.

    Other Herbal Remedies

    • Psyllium, an effective soluble fiber source, helps absorb cholesterol, thus helping to reduce its levels in the blood. Other herbs such as flaxseeds, alfalafa, licorice and ginseng are also beneficial for bringing down cholesterol levels in the blood.

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