Arteriosclerosis
Also known as hardening of the arteries, arteriosclerosis is actually a group of diseases that are characterized by hard, thick artery walls. This condition may lead to other forms of heart disease and high blood pressure.
Symptoms
The condition shows no symptoms until you've reached the stage of already having developed hardened arteries. It is best to take precautionary measures to prevent this disease before it occurs.
Causes
One of the main causes of arteriosclerosis is a diet high in excess fats. The fats turn to cholesterol and triglycerides, which in turn becomes plaque that builds up along the artery walls, thinning the diameter of the artery. When arteries become blocked or partially blocked, sufficient blood flow is prevented from reaching the areas of the body near that blockage. Smoking adds to the risk because it constricts the arteries. High blood pressure can be another risk factor. Diabetics are also at a higher risk.
Cautions
When the circulation is reduced due to this condition, it can result in paralysis, gangrene or disorders of the heart. Depending on where the blockages occur, you may develop peripheral arterial disease, coronary heart disease or paralytic stroke.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Horsetail – this herb contains a large amount of minerals that will strengthen the walls of the arteries. It may also protect them against fatty deposits.
- Ginkgo biloba – this herb reduces the risk of heart attacks by increasing blood flow to improve the circulation.
- Skullcap – this herb stabilizes heart disease that is caused by stress factors. It has calming abilities that may prevent heart attacks. Studies have shown that skullcap increases HDL, or "good" cholesterol.
- Valerian – doses of this sedative herb reduces high blood pressure that is caused by stress and it relaxes the walls of the blood vessels, preventing spasms and eventually enhancing the blood flow.
- Lemon balm – this herb has similar actions to valerian, but is more gentle. Lemon balm tea can be taken as needed without worries of side effects.
- Red clover – this herb contains coumarin, a compound that protects the blood vessels. Red clover can be taken as an extract, a tea or a tincture.
- Lemon – the peel is used to strengthen the entire arterial system. Shredded lemon peel can be added to salads, soups and stews. It can also be made into a medicine by cutting up the peel of one or two lemons, covering it with warm water and allowing it to stand for 12 hours. Take one teaspoon every three hours or just before or after a meal.
- Parsley – this herb contains many elements that help maintain healthy blood vessels, especially the capillaries and arterial system. Add parsley to your beverages. Just add a few sprigs to some water and simmer it gently for a few minutes and it is ready to use.
- Herbal Blend – a blend of hawthorn, garlic and cayenne is very beneficial in preventing arteriosclerosis. Hawthorn regulates blood pressure and strengthens the heart, while garlic removes cholesterol from the blood and keeps deposits from getting sticky. Cayenne pepper purifies the circulatory system, strengthens the pulse rate and regulates the heart and blood pressure.