Herbal Cures for High Cholesterol

Cholesterol occurs naturally in the body. It is often viewed as a bad substance, but it serves important functions ranging from hormone production to nerve function. When the body's use of this substance is disturbed, or if levels become too high, that is when it can become problematic. High cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, mental impairment, gallstones, stroke and heart attack. There are herbal treatments which can increase HDL or "good" cholesterol and decrease LDL or "bad" cholesterol. They often take at least a couple of months of use to effect change, so consistency is important.

Herbal Treatments

Artichoke leaf reduces overall cholesterol and triglycerides (a form of fat) and raises HDL. Take 1,500 mg daily for at least 6 weeks.

Asafoetida reduces total cholesterol increased by excess fat in the diet. Take 1 tsp. of powder daily.

Cordyceps lowers LDL and raises HDL. Take 1,000 mg daily.

Dioscorea, also known as wild yam, raises HDL. Take tincture as directed on the label.

Garlic enteric-coated capsules lower total cholesterol in the body. Take 900 mg daily for 3 to 4 months.

Ginseng lowers LDL and triglyceride levels. Take the tincture as directed on the label.

Green tea lowers LDL and raises HDL. Drink two to five cups daily.

Guggul raises HDL. Take 25 mg three times a day for 3 to 4 months.

Hawthorn assists the liver with conversion of LDL to HDL. Take 100 to 250 mg three times a day.

Milk thistle maintains general liver health and helps with conversion of LDL to HDL. Take 300 mg every day.

Shiitake mushroom eaten whole lowers LDL and raises HDL. Eat three to six grams daily.

Herbs and pharmaceutical agents are assigned suggested doses based on their therapeutic range. This refers to the range from the smallest dose that provides any benefit to the largest dose that is safe for consumption. Herbs are generally nontoxic, and serious complications or overdose is unlikely. However, you should stick to suggested amounts, as taking more is not likely to produce additional benefit and can potentially cause negative side effects.

Other Suggestions

Quitting smoking raises your level of good cholesterol, reduces blood pressure and decreases the risk of heart attack. Limit fat intake and eat lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit alcohol intake and exercise regularly. Carrot juice helps flush out fat from bile in the liver, lowering cholesterol. Vitamin B3 (niacin) lowers LDL, raises HDL and lowers production of blood-clotting factors that provoke heart attacks. Start with 500 mg three times daily and after 2 weeks increase to 1,000 mg three times a day. Do not use if taking Mevacor.