Atherosclerosis (coronary heart disease) is characterized by plaque formation on the artery and vessel walls and is a common condition that affects millions of Americans every year. Atherosclerosis is a major risk factor for heart attacks and stroke, and both are responsible for nearly a million deaths in the U.S. every year. Thankfully, Chinese herbs such as Hong Hua may help those with atherosclerosis.
What are the Risk Factors and Causes of Atherosclerosis?
Both western and Chinese medicine take atherosclerosis seriously. Western physicians have a good grasp of the risk factors involved, which include:
- Elevated blood pressure
- Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Diabetes
- Diets rich in saturated fats
- Smoking
Smoking cessation, exercise and improved diet are primary recommendations among western physicians, and these are recommendations that can help.
Chinese medicine follows many of the same guidelines, but practitioners also have herbal treatment options to improve patient outcomes. One such treatment is Hong Hua.
How Can Hong Hua Help with Atherosclerosis?
Chinese medicine doesn’t consider atherosclerosis the same way that western physicians do, but practitioners do recognize when blood “stasis” – or reduced blood flow – is present. Treatment is aimed at improving blood flow and removing obstructions in the cardiovascular system.
Hong Hua is a warm herb that promotes healthy blood movement and is a proven herb for cardiovascular and gynecological conditions. When administered properly, Hong Hua enters the liver and heart, where it invigorates blood flow. This can boost cardiovascular efficiency and reduce the severity of any blockages.
Hong Hua is a fairly intense herb that is risky to take in higher concentrations. As such, it’s important that atherosclerosis patients work with a Chinese medicine practitioner to ensure safe and effective dosing.