Herbs for Cholesterol Support
Managing cholesterol is a big part of staying healthy and feeling your best — and certain herbs may be able to support your body’s natural ability to regulate cholesterol.
Herbs have been stepping up for centuries, supporting heart health and keeping your body functioning properly. At Dose, we believe that some of the most powerful tools for wellness come from the ground.
So, if you’re curious about how a sprinkle of this or a dash of that can work wonders, you’re in the right place.
What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a type of lipid (fancy word for fat) that’s essential for building cells and producing certain hormones.
However, there are two types of cholesterol to keep on your radar: LDL (low-density lipoprotein), which can build up in your arteries and lead to problems, and HDL (high-density lipoprotein), which helps clear away excess cholesterol.
When you hear “total cholesterol,” it’s the combined number of these two types — and keeping that number within a healthy range is key to supporting heart health and avoiding risks like cardiovascular disease.
Why Is a Healthy Cholesterol Important?
You know what cholesterol is, but why does it matter so much?
Here’s why keeping your cholesterol in check is so important:
Protects Heart Health
High levels of LDL cholesterol, or "bad cholesterol," can lead to buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Keeping your cholesterol levels in a healthy range is key to supporting a happy heart.
Supports Arterial Function
When your arteries are clear of buildup, blood flows more freely, reducing your risk of high blood pressure and ensuring your cardiovascular system functions smoothly.
Reduces Risk of Other Conditions
Healthy cholesterol levels and a balanced lipid profile are linked to lower risks of developing conditions like atherosclerosis, where arteries harden and narrow due to plaque buildup.
Boosts Overall Wellness
When your cholesterol is balanced, your body can focus on performing optimally — from regulating blood pressure to maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
Keeping your blood cholesterol levels in check is essential for a healthy body and mind.
What's Considered a Healthy Cholesterol Range?
Generally, a healthy total cholesterol level is below 200 mg/dL. Your LDL cholesterol should be under 100 mg/dL, while HDL cholesterol should be 60 mg/dL or higher to help protect against heart disease.
Triglycerides — another type of fat in the blood — are best kept under 150 mg/dL.
What Are Some Signs of Imbalanced Cholesterol?
Sometimes, cholesterol levels increase without obvious signs or symptoms. However, you may notice certain signals, even if subtle.
Here are a few signs that your cholesterol might need some extra attention:
- Frequent Exhaustion: Feeling tired more than usual? It could be a sign that your blood isn’t flowing as freely as it should, possibly due to cholesterol buildup.
- Shortness of Breath: If you’re finding it harder to catch your breath, especially after mild exertion, your cardiovascular system might be working overtime.
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: A feeling of tightness, pressure, or pain in the chest can indicate that your arteries are narrowing — a common consequence of high cholesterol.
- Leg Pain or Numbness: Poor circulation from cholesterol buildup can lead to cramping, pain, or numbness in your legs, particularly when walking or climbing stairs.
- Yellowish Deposits Around the Eyes: These are called xanthomas, small lumps of cholesterol that can show up under the skin or around the eyes.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it might be time to get your cholesterol checked. Remember, your body knows best — listen to it and talk to your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Why Turn to Herbs for Cholesterol Support?
When it comes to cholesterol support, herbs can play a supportive role. They’ve been used for centuries across cultures to help maintain health, including heart health.
More recently, they’re getting a lot of love for their potential to support balanced cholesterol levels. Why? Because herbs often come packed with powerful compounds like antioxidants, soluble fiber, and other nutrients that can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels naturally.
So, if you're looking for a more holistic approach to wellness, incorporating herbs into your routine is an easy and effective way to support your heart and overall health without making huge changes. Sometimes, the simplest solutions really are the best.
What Herbs May Help Support Healthy Cholesterol?
Ready to dive into the herbs that might help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels? Here’s a look at some of the most promising ones that are worth considering:
Garlic
Garlic isn't just for keeping vampires away — it might also help keep your cholesterol in check. Packed with a powerful compound called allicin, garlic has been shown to help support normal levels of LDL cholesterol (that’s the “bad” one) while also supporting your overall heart health.
Add it to your meals, take it as a supplement, or just start loving garlic bread a little bit more — your heart may thank you.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn has been around the block in herbal medicine, especially when it comes to heart health. This berry is loaded with antioxidants, which help protect your blood vessels and may even keep cholesterol levels in a healthy range.
Turmeric
The active component in turmeric, curcumin, has been studied for its potential to support normal levels of LDL cholesterol, thus supporting your overall cardiovascular health.
Artichoke Leaf
Artichoke leaf extract may help support your body’s lipid metabolism, which means it could play a role in maintaining normal levels of total and LDL cholesterol. If you’ve never considered artichokes outside of a dip, this could be your chance to change that.
Green Tea
While technically a beverage, green tea is derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is often included in herbal remedies. Rich in catechins, it may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and protect against cardiovascular risks. Swap your coffee for green tea, and your heart may thank you.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek might not be in your spice rack yet, but it should be. Rich in soluble fiber, it can help your body manage cholesterol absorption. Plus, it's got a unique, slightly sweet flavor that could add something special to your kitchen creations.
How Can You Use Herbs to Support Healthy Cholesterol Levels?
Wondering how to incorporate these heart-helpers into your routine? Here are some simple, effective ways to use herbs to help keep your cholesterol in check:
Sip Your Way to Healthy Cholesterol
Sipping herbal teas like green tea or hibiscus can be a delicious way to support cholesterol health. If you want something with more targeted benefits, our Daily Dose for Cholesterol is packed with clinically-backed ingredients like turmeric and pomegranate to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Just a quick shot a day can be an easy addition to your wellness routine, supporting your heart without the side effects that can come with other methods.
Spice Up Your Meals
Adding herbs like garlic or fenugreek seeds to your meals is a flavorful way to benefit from their cholesterol-lowering properties.
Cooking with these herbs not only enhances the taste of your dishes but also allows you to enjoy their health benefits naturally.
Embrace Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Herbs aren’t the only natural helpers — omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or fatty fish like salmon can also support heart health and maintain cholesterol levels. Adding these to your diet or opting for high-quality fish oil supplements can provide additional cardiovascular benefits.
Mix Up Your Routine with Smoothies
Blend herbs like turmeric and green tea into your morning smoothie. It's an easy, tasty way to incorporate these cholesterol-supporting ingredients into your diet without much effort. Plus, you’ll get the added bonus of other fruits and veggies to keep your body feeling great.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention for Cholesterol Support?
While incorporating herbs and making lifestyle changes can be helpful, there are times when it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.
If your cholesterol levels remain high despite your efforts or if you experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg pain, reach out to your doctor.
Anyone with a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol, or other risk factors should also consider regular check-ups. A healthcare professional can provide personalized medical advice, help manage potential side effects, and determine if prescription medications might be necessary for your cholesterol management plan.
The Bottom Line
Herbs can be an easy, natural way to help support healthy cholesterol levels, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Combining these heart-friendly herbs with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and other smart lifestyle choices can make a big difference.
At Dose, we’re here to help you take those small, meaningful steps toward better health. So why not give your heart some extra love with our wellness shots? They’re packed with the good stuff — without any of the fuss. Your heart (and taste buds) will thank you.
Sources:
Cholesterol | Better Health Channel
Stanford study drives stake through claims that garlic lowers cholesterol levels | News Center