Herbs for Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations manifest themselves as a pounding, skipping, fluttering beat. These symptoms can be felt in the chest, throat or neck, and can occur any time day or night. The attacks can last for a few seconds or hours, with varying frequency. They are generally normal, but can be abnormal. Natural remedies are widely used to combat the symptoms associated with this condition and have proven to be effective.

Cause

• Heart palpitations usually occur due to non-related health issues such as exercise, medication, stress, caffeine, alcohol, menstruation hormonal changes, pregnancy, menopause and tobacco. In rare instances, symptoms are the result of arrhythmia which requires medical attention.

Herbal Treatment Methods

• Herbs that are effective in treating heart palpitations are motherworth, hawthorne, cayenne and garlic. These treatments are used extensively in Asian and European countries with great results, and are now widely used by American patients.

Motherwort

• Motherwort, traditionally used in Europe, China and other parts of the world, is an effective treatment for palpitations. It has a calming and sedative effect that slows the fast heartbeat associated with this disorder. Dr. Rudolph Weiss, a German herbal specialist, confirmed the tonic is effective in lowering blood pressure and improving heart rate. Motherwort is taken in tincture form three times a day.

Hawthorne

• Hawthorne usage increases the oxygen consumed by the heart and increases enzymes in the heart muscle. It strengthens the heart, maintaining a regular heart beat, while removing water build-up that surrounds the heart. It is a slow acting tonic so the impact might not be instant. It can be taken as tincture or tea.

Cayenne

• Taken daily, cayenne strengthens, stimulates and tones the heart, balances circulation and calms the palpitations. It is available as a tea or in capsule form. Patients who choose not to use the tea or capsules can use the herb directly from the pantry and add it to juice or another liquid to reduce the strong pepper flavor. Cayenne is not only a great herbal remedy, it is also rich in vitamins A, B, and C, as well potassium and calcium.

Garlic

• Garlic's benefits are extensive and is historically the herb of choice for many cultures. It is effective in lowering fatty deposits in the arteries and inhibits blood clot formation. Garlic should be taken daily. It is a commonly used household herb and can be eaten raw as well as cooked. It can be taken in capsule form for users who do not like the strong taste.

Warning

• Palpitations accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pains or fainting spells can be a sign of other illnesses and requires medical treatment.