Chinese Herbs May Help Lower Cholesterol
Studies Indicate Herbal Formulas Reduce LDL and Triglyceride Levels
In order to increase the safety of Chinese herbs used by people attempting to control high cholesterol, TCM assessment patterns should used to determine which herbs may be most appropriate for the individual.
TCM Patterns That Correspond to the Diagnosis of High Cholesterol
There are four patterns in Chinese medical assessment that are typically seen in clients with high cholesterol:
- Damp Phlegm: This pattern is often associated with difficulty with weight loss as well.
- Blood Stasis: This pattern is seen in many types of arthritic changes as well as some types of heart disease
- Spleen and Stomach Deficiency:The inability to digest properly, which is typical of this pattern, may affect how cholesterol is processed by the body.
- Liver and Kidney Deficiency:The relationship between the Liver and bile production (cholesterol is eliminated when bile is released) is one aspect of this pattern.
In most cases, however, there will be some combination of these TCM patterns making it important to customize the formula for the individual to get the maximum benefit.
Some Herbs That Have Been Shown to Lower Cholesterol
The following herbs have all been used in controlled studies which have determined their efficacy based on standardized western medical evaluation.
- Shan Zha or hawthorn fruit (Crataegus pinnatifida), lowered cholesterol from an average of 253mg% to 207mg% in one study.
- Mo Yao, or myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) has an active ingredient that appears to block a receptor in the liver that is involved in cholesterol metabolism. It may also stimulate thyroid function.
- Da Suan or garlic (Allium stivum), which has been shown to inhibit the development of atherosclerosis, is also used in cholesterol lowering formulas
- Jue Ming Zi or cassia seeds (Cassia obtusifolia) also lowered cholesterol with one study resulting in 98% of subjects showing levels within normal limits after 4 weeks. This plant had the added benefit of lowering blood pressure.
- He Shou Wu or fleeceflower (Polygonum multiflorum) reduced serum cholesterol in 78 cases but 8 cases showed increases and several people in the study experienced facial flushing or increased stool production.
The Importance of Individual Assessment When Using Chinese Herbs
The reaction to He Shou Wu by some study subjects is a good reminder that herbs are not risk free. Individuals interested in using Traditional Chinese Medicinal herbs to help control their cholesterol levels should work with an experience TCM practitioner.
The practitioner will determine which patterns they fit into and which of the many herbs that have cholesterol controlling potential is least likely to cause side effects or fail to reduce LDL and triglyceride levels. For example, those test subjects which experienced facial flushing with He Shou Wu would be given different herbs more specific to their needs.
Chinese Herbs as Part of an Overall Cholesterol Reducing Program
Chinese herbs should not be used as a substitute for a balanced plan for reducing LDL and triglycerides. Dietary modifications, including increasing fruit and vegetable intake to increase fiber and antioxidant levels, avoiding trans fats, refined carbohydrates, and fatty meats are still necessary for heart health. Consultation with a physician before adding Chinese herbs to one's regimen is highly recommended.
Exercise is also an important component of cholesterol reducing strategies, as is stress management. Traditional Chinese Medicine has always emphasized the importance of appropriate diet and lifestyle no matter what health issues a person is experiencing. Lowering cholesterol is no exception.
Other Source: Bensky, D. and A. Gamble. Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, Revised Edition.1993. Eastland Press,Inc. Seattle WA
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