Home Remedies for Healthy Heart

Green Tea

Green tea contains powerful antioxidants that improve the health of cells that form the innermost lining of the heart and

blood vessels.

Green tea is prepared from unfermented tea leaves that have a slight bitter flavour. When compared to black tea, green tea is rich in an antioxidant substance called epigallo catechin gallate. This antioxidant has been found to improve the health of the cells that form the innermost lining of the blood vessels and the heart. Studies have also shown that green tea reduces the formation of 'bad' cholesterol and prevents rise in blood pressure. Regular consumption of about 3 to 4 cups of green tea per day is believed to keep the heart and blood vessels in good shape, and can help you cut down on the risks of developing heart disease.

Pomegranate

Like green tea, pomegranate juice has been consumed for centuries, with the belief that the ruby-red fruit promoted health. Modern scientists have shown that this belief is well justified. Powerful antioxidant chemicals in pomegranate fruit and juice may help reverse atherosclerosis and lower blood pressure.

Ginger

Capable of preventing formation of clots, improving blood circulation and lowering 'evels.Its best known for its digestive and anti-flatulent properties, ginger is increasingly gaining recognition as an herb that promotes heart health. Studies have shown that ginger is capable of Preventing formation of clots, improving blood circulation and lowering LDL cholesterol levels. Many laboratory studies have found ginger to be more effective than the drug aspirin as a blood clot preventer.

Cayenne pepper

Beneficial for treating heart and circulatory problems and helps to reduce the risk of irregular heart rhythms and lowers

cholesterol levels

You probably use cayenne to spice up your curries but did you know that it's also good for the heart? This spice contains a substance called capsaicin that has been shown to improve the elasticity of the blood vessels, helping them stay healthy. More importantly, it reduces the chances of blood clot formation and also lowers levels of LDL  cholesterol.

Garlic

Beneficial for conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and coronary heart disease.Garlic has a host of medicinal properties that make it a truly miraculous herb. Studies have found that a single clove of garlic consumed every day can help to reduce the production of 'bad' LDL cholesterol, raise the production of 'good' HDL cholesterol and also keep blood pressure within normal limits.

Turmeric

Turmeric has an active ingredient called curcumin that helps maintain heart health by reducing cholesterol oxidation, plaque buildup and clot formation. Turmeric can help prevent atherosclerosis. Turmeric has an active ingredient called curcumin that helps maintain heart health by reducing cholesterol oxidation, plaque buildup and clot formation. Plus, it helps lower LDL and provides anti-inflammatory benefits. Being a potent antioxidant, it also neutralizes free radicals that contribute to aging and several chronic diseases.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as well as magnesium, potassium, niacin, calcium and soluble fiber. Eating oatmeal regularly can lower LDL levels (the bad cholesterol) and help keep your arteries clear. To reap the benefits, start your day with a steaming bowl of oats and enjoy oat-based snacks throughout the day. Plain, unprocessed oatmeal is preferred over instant and flavored varieties.

Black Beans

Black beans contain B-complex vitamins, niacin, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and soluble fiber. All these nutrients help control both cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Black beans are also a good source of dietary protein without the unwanted cholesterol found in meat. Health experts recommend eating four or more servings of black beans per week to decrease your risk of heart disease.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil, made from the first press of olives, is especially rich in heart-healthy antioxidants called polyphenols, as well as healthy monounsaturated fats. It contains higher levels of "good fat" compared to various vegetable oils and their cholesterol-inducing "bad" fats. Regular consumption of extra virgin olive oil can help lower cholesterol levels and protect blood vessels.

Fenugreek

Reduces platelet aggregation, thus decreasing the risk of abnormal blood clotting associated with heart attacks and strokes.Fenugreek has antioxidant and cardio-protective benefits. It is excellent for reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, thanks to its strong modulating effect on blood lipid levels. It also reduces platelet aggregation, thus decreasing the risk of abnormal blood clotting associated with heart attacks and strokes. It helps lower cholesterol, blood sugar and excess fat.
Hawthorn

Helps increase blood flow to the heart and improves cardiac muscle contractions, thus leading to a stronger pumping action.

Chinese Hibiscus

Hibiscus contains antioxidant compounds that help prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol that contributes to atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Alfalfa

Beneficial in preventing cardiovascular problems as it helps reduce cholesterol levels and plaque buildup.