11 Herbal Remedies To Keep Your Cholesterol In Check

A Chinese proverb once said, “When the heart is at ease, the body is healthy.”

We only have one heart, and we must protect it by watching our cholesterol levels. There are two types of cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). LDL is bad cholesterol, and high levels can put us at risk for heart disease and strokes. HDL is considered good cholesterol, which reduces our risk of heart disease. Fortunately, high cholesterol levels can be reduced by making a few small changes like exercising more and following a balanced diet that includes some of these herbal remedies.

Here is a list of eleven natural remedies that can help lower bad cholesterol levels naturally:

1. Turmeric 

Turmeric works to cut down the plaque or cholesterol deposits in the walls of the arteries. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, works to lower total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides. You can add turmeric to your curries or make yourself a turmeric milk beverage before bed. However, one of the most effective ways to use turmeric for lowering LDL is by taking half a teaspoon with some warm water first thing in the morning. Read more about the health benefits of turmeric in our blog, Herbs For Health: Turmeric.

2. Green Tea

Green tea is loaded with antioxidants and other healthy compounds that make it very effective at reducing bad cholesterol. Green tea has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol in overweight and obese people without affecting HDL cholesterol levels. Besides reducing plaque build-up, green tea also reduces the risk of heart disease in general.

3. Garlic

Research has shown that eating garlic may help lower blood pressure, reduce blood cholesterol levels and slow the progress of atherosclerosis. Simmer some whole garlic cloves in olive oil until they are soft, and use them to spread on anything you find bland. Garlic tastes much better than conventionally raised butter and is much healthier for you too! Garlic is also a great antiviral herb; read more about it in this blog.

4. Shiitake Mushrooms

The compounds in the shiitake mushroom have shown natural antibacterial and alkalizing qualities. These mushrooms have a compound called eritadenine which positively impacts the cardiovascular system, especially when it comes to lowering blood pressure and bad cholesterol. Shiitake mushrooms can be whipped up as a side dish or added to meals like stir frys, risotto, salads, and pasta.

5. Flaxseed

Studies have shown that taking flaxseed daily can reduce total cholesterol and lower the LDL cholesterol in the body. Flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids that may help lower your risk of heart disease. You can add a tablespoon of flaxseed to yogurts, a glass of water, or even to your smoothies.

6. Coriander Seeds

Coriander is chock full of antioxidants that reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. Coriander seeds contain many key vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, and beta-carotene. You can make coriander herbal tea by boiling one teaspoon of coriander in a cup of water for around two minutes. Strain the seeds and flavor with honey if desired – your heart will thank you later!

7. Ginger 

A daily dose of ginger works to lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. Ginger also boosts the level of good cholesterol in the body. Five grams of ginger a day for three months has been shown to significantly lower bad cholesterol levels. You can add raw ginger to a variety of recipes or take it as a supplement or powder. Read more about the health benefits of ginger in our blog Ginger - Is it a herb? Is it a spice?

8. Apple Cider Vinegar

In moderation, apple cider vinegar has many health benefits. Apple cider vinegar helps to control blood sugar levels as well as reduce LDL cholesterol levels by lessening plaque in the arteries. Studies have shown that 30ml of apple cider vinegar twice daily after two months significantly reduced bad cholesterol. You can add your apple cider vinegar to a glass of water to drink or take apple cider vinegar capsules.

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9. Hawthorn

Hawthorn fruit extract has many antioxidant properties, which lower LDL cholesterol by increasing bile excretion, reducing the formation of cholesterol, and enhancing the LDL receptors. Hawthorn extract can be taken in the form of a tincture or supplement.

10. Astragalus

This herbal remedy is a strong antioxidant and helps reduce the risk of heart disease and LDL cholesterol and improve heart function. Astragalus is generally well tolerated but should be avoided by pregnant women and those taking immune-suppressing drugs. Astragalus is available in supplement form.

11. Red Yeast Rice

Red yeast rice is the product of rice fermented with a kind of yeast called Monascus purpureus. Red yeast rice can lower total blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. It has been shown that 2.4 grams per day can reduce bad cholesterol by 22 percent. Red yeast rice can be taken in supplement form.

It is certainly worth mentioning that there are some incredibly promising studies on Plant Sterols and Bergamot coming out. Let’s keep watch of these helpful herbals!

In Summary: Lowering Your LDL Cholesterol

Our hearts are one of the most important organs in our bodies, and we need to look after them if we want to live a long, healthy life. One of the ways to look after your heart is to incorporate these simple herbal remedies into your daily diet to reduce any high cholesterol levels. However, please be sure to always consult with a healthcare practitioner before trying any new supplements, especially if you are already taking other medication for high cholesterol.