The cholesterol is an organic substance that is a steroid of fat. It is an important component in the hormone systems and mammalian cell membranes. It is necessary for the functioning and health of a human being.
The level of cholesterol should not be in excess as it can damage the arteries and can cause cardiovascular diseases. There are several medications available in the market to control the levels of cholesterol but the safest and effective way to treat this is herbal remedies. Here are some of the herbal remedies to lower cholesterol levels:
8 Herbal Remedies For Lowering Cholesterol
Artichoke Leaf
Artichoke leaf extract limits the synthesis process of the cholesterol in the body.
The artichoke leaf has an ingredient known as cynarin which increases the formation of bile and the bile goes to the gallbladder easily which helps to increase the excretion of cholesterol in the body. The chemical name of artichoke leaf is Cynara scolymnus.
Oats
The oats, barley and legumes come in the category of soluble fiber which helps to reduce the LDL cholesterol due to low absorption of cholesterol in the intestines.The intake of soluble fiber should be around six to ten grams a day. The LDL cholesterol will reduce by five percent with the addition of soluble fiber in the diet.
Plant Sterols And Stanols
Plant sterols and stanols are present in some specific plants. They help to lower the cholesterol in the body. Stanols are present in food like margarine, citrus juices etc.They help other methods to decrease the level of LDL cholesterol.
Natural Home Remedies to Lower Cholesterol
9 Herbs To Lower Cholesterol
Red Yeast Rice
Red yeast rice is very good for lowering cholesterol in the body. It contains monacolin K and eight other monacolins (statin-like substances) which are responsible for lowering cholesterol.
The red yeast rice can be taken in any form. The extracts of red yeast rice are also available in the markets.
Green Tea
The green tea is rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds which help in lesser absorption of cholesterol on the digestive tract. The people who are regular drinkers of green tea are less prone to heart diseases but this should be kept in mind that more than five cups of green tea will give some side effects like headache, insomnia, heartburn and nervousness.
Soy
The soy contains isoflavones which is a type of phytoestrogens that keeps a check on the level of cholesterol. The soy can be taken in the form of food or in the form of soy supplements.
In few cases soy gives nausea, gas and bloating and constipation to some people. The soy is not a medicine and it is not suggested for long term use.
Garlic
Garlic is a very easy and good remedy for lowering cholesterol. A clove of raw garlic or supplements of garlic available in the market can be taken daily to reduce the cholesterol.
Sugarcane Wax
The sugarcane wax gives a mixture of alcohols which is better known as policosanol. It lowers the bad cholesterol and increases the good cholestrol. The LDL is known as bad cholesterol and HDL is known as good cholestrol.The policosanol inhibits the formation of cholesterol in the liver.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.