High levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. While medication can help control LDL cholesterol, incorporating certain herbs into your diet may also play a role in lowering it.
Here are 30 herbs that have been linked to reducing LDL cholesterol levels:.
1. Garlic
Garlic is well-known for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to lower LDL cholesterol levels. Its active compound, allicin, can help prevent the liver from producing excess cholesterol.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering properties. Incorporating turmeric into your meals or taking curcumin supplements may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
3. Ginger
Ginger has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. Recent studies suggest that ginger can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body.
4. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is not only a flavorful spice but also has antidiabetic and lipid-lowering effects. It may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and improve overall blood lipid profile.
5. Holy Basil
Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is an herb with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
6. Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds have been used for their medicinal properties for centuries. Studies indicate that fenugreek may help lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
7. Green Tea
Green tea is rich in catechins, which are potent antioxidants. Consuming green tea regularly has been linked to lower LDL cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of heart disease.
8. Hawthorn
Hawthorn is a herb that has been used for its cardiovascular benefits. Studies suggest that hawthorn extracts can help lower LDL cholesterol and improve heart health.
9. Dandelion
Dandelion is often considered a weed but is packed with health benefits. Its leaves and root may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and improve liver function.
10. Artichoke
Artichoke leaf extracts have been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects. They work by increasing the breakdown of cholesterol in the body, leading to lower LDL levels.
11. Flaxseed
Flaxseed is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Consuming ground flaxseed regularly may help lower LDL cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
12. Nettle
Nettle leaves have been traditionally used for their medicinal properties. Studies suggest that nettle extracts may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and possess antioxidant effects.
13. Black Seed
Black seeds, also known as Nigella sativa, have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. They may help lower LDL cholesterol and improve overall lipid profile.
14. Hibiscus
Hibiscus tea has been associated with several health benefits, including lower LDL cholesterol levels. It is rich in antioxidants and may help improve heart health.
15. Red Yeast Rice
Red yeast rice is a fermented rice product that contains naturally occurring statins. These compounds can help lower LDL cholesterol levels, although their use should be monitored by a healthcare professional.
16. Coriander
Coriander, also known as cilantro, is a popular herb used in culinary preparations. Studies suggest that coriander may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol.
17. Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a herb known for its liver-protecting properties. It may also help reduce LDL cholesterol levels, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the body.
18. Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant herb widely used in cooking. Its extracts have shown potential in reducing LDL cholesterol levels and improving heart health.
19. Oregano
Oregano is not only a delicious culinary herb but also has health-promoting properties. Oregano extracts may help lower LDL cholesterol levels and possess antioxidant effects.
20. Cardamom
Cardamom is a popular spice known for its distinct aroma and flavor. Research suggests that cardamom may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and improve heart health markers.
21. Guggul
Guggul is a resin derived from the Commiphora mukul tree, commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It may help lower LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol.
22. Licorice
Licorice root has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. Studies have shown that licorice extracts may help lower LDL cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
23. Astragalus
Astragalus root has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its immune-boosting properties. It may also help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
24. Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a nutrient-rich herb often used as a dietary supplement. It may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels, primarily due to its fiber content.
25. Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a herb known for its liver-protecting properties. It may also help reduce LDL cholesterol levels, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the body.
26. Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant herb widely used in cooking. Its extracts have shown potential in reducing LDL cholesterol levels and improving heart health.
27. Passionflower
Passionflower is an herb that has been used for its calming properties. Research suggests that it may also help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
28. Evening Primrose
Evening primrose oil is derived from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. It may help lower LDL cholesterol levels and improve heart health markers.
29. Bilberry
Bilberry is a relative of the blueberry and is packed with antioxidants. It may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and improve overall blood lipid profile.
30. Psyllium
Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber derived from the Plantago ovata plant. It can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and improve digestive health.