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February would not be complete without an article devoted to heart health. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the US. Proper cardiac health is highly dependent upon one's quality of blood and uninterrupted and smooth blood flow. This can be achieved by proper  diet for your body,  a healthy exercise regime, and a harmonious balanced lifestyle.

Some herbs act as tonics which support the nourishment of the body  and more specifically to the heart.

Several  herbs are known to provide specific benefits to the heart organ and cardiac function. Here are my top choices.

Garlic (Allium sativum).  There is a reason that most cultures include garlic as an ingredient in their culinary preparations: the Egyptians are known to have found more than 195 medical uses for the herb! The Chinese too, value the herb to such an extent that one of their everyday teas is Garlic-based. Furthermore, several studies have shown that a single clove of garlic a day (which roughly translates into 500 – 1000 mg in powder form) is good for healthy cholesterol levels. Similar studies have also proven garlic to be a blood pressure normalizer.

Oregano.  Known for its ability to prevent and cure several ailments to a great extent, oregano is a rich source for controlling cholesterol  as well as providing dietary  antioxidants and fiber.

 Antioxidants fight radicals and reduce inflammation (which are basically charged molecules capable of causing undesired chemical reactions) and thus help prevent heart disease, among other health issues. Oregano helps fight off inflammation inducing free radicals, and protect the heart against ‘bad' cholesterol (LDL). Oregano can be used liberally in food recipes.

Green Tea.  Green tea is  known for its benefits to heart tissue.. Cells that line the blood vessels in and around the heart are delicate, and consumption of green tea briskly improves their health, condition and performance. The 2008 issue of European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation reported that researchers have found green tea to improve blood vessel function within 30 minutes of consumption! 

Hawthorn Berry  Scientific research provides evidence for positive correlation between hawthorn and blood vessel dilation, which lowers blood pressure. It thus leads to an overall stronger heart that can then function better, providing improved blood circulation and oxygen reach to the rest of the body. The component of hawthorn responsible for this chain of benefits is the pigment found in hawthorn berries, flowers and even its leaves, which contain strong antioxidant properties.

Hawthorn is also known for ensuring even distribution and effective use of Vitamin C reserves, protecting and improving the functioning of smaller capillaries and vessels.

Lavender.  Lavender oil is known for its abundant antiseptic, antibacterial and sedative properties. Its balancing effects help strengthen the heart's cardiac muscles, which improves contraction and relaxation of the heart's arteries and ventricles. Its sedative properties also help reduce palpitations and general hypertension. Anxiety is a true cause of many cardiac problems and it is important to get it resolved.

Chokeberry.  Otherwise known as Aronia berries and rich in vitamins A, C and K, chokeberries were found by researchers in 2010 to be beneficial for people with metabolic syndrome, patients who suffer from several health problems that increase the risk of heart disease. A rich source of antioxidants, it is known to significantly decrease blood pressure and LDL.

Ginseng.  Ginseng is essentially an immune system booster. Studies have provided promising correlations between ginseng and reduced blood pressure as well as reduced heart disease risk. Slight precaution is advised as ginseng increases blood pressure in some people. It is best to work with a practitioner before selecting ginseng for oneself.

Ginkgo (Gingko Biloba).  Gingko is more famous for its memory improving effects, but it is a powerful natural medicine for cerebrovascular disease. Ginkgo leaf extracts have been proven by studies to dilate vessels, thus leading to increased blood flow. It is also known to prevent and reduce congealing of blood platelets. Improved blood circulation to all major organs help reduce the risk of strokes.

Of course, these should be used as per your doctor's consultation, especially if you are already on other medication or prone to allergic reactions.  Green tea, garlic, oregano, as foods can be consumed liberally as foods unless your doctor has limited them.