Indian Herbs That Help Lowering High Cholesterol

Heart attacks and heart diseases have become prevalent in the country and one of its major causes is imbalance in cholesterol levels. Usually, everyone will talk about what not to eat and what foods to avoid when it comes to cholesterol levels, but what to eat and consume is less talked about. If you have high cholesterol problems, do not worry, here’s a list of herbs that are easily available in your kitchen, consume them and it will help you improve your cholesterol levels. 

Turmeric

Turmeric has been used as a medicinal herb in India since ancient times. Apart from being used as a medicine, it is commonly used as a staple in Indian cuisine. The active compound in turmeric is called curcumin, which brings the yellow colour of turmeric. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties which helps aiding a number of ailments from cold and sinus to cancer and cardiovascular diseases. According to research published by the National Institute of Health, US, turmeric and curcumin help in reducing LDL (low-density lipoprotein). It can be used in gravies, soups, parathas, turmeric milk, and so on. 

Also read: Statin Side Effects: Who Should Not Take The Cholesterol-Lowering Medication?

Garlic

Having enormous health benefits, garlic is the real tastemaker when it comes to spicy foods. It has properties that help in lowering LDL cholesterol in our body. Study by the International Journal of Preventive Medicine stated, “Intake of half to one clove of garlic per day lowers cholesterol levels approximately 10%. Mechanisms that explain the observed effects of garlic include a decrease in cholesterol absorption, cholesterol, and fatty acid synthesis.” A compound found in garlic mainly helps reduce cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. It helps in improving cardiovascular health. It can be used in making anything and everything, from soups to curies, and from salad dressings to chutneys, it can be used in all and helps enhance the flavour of these dishes. 

Ginger

One of my most favourite herbs, without which I cannot sip my morning tea, without which I cannot eat curries, dal or even chutneys, is ginger. The flavour of ginger adds a refreshing aroma in your food and delicacies. Apart from being tasteful, ginger has medicinal properties which help in aiding many ailments. Studies have shown that ginger significantly helps in lowering cholesterol levels in the body. 

Also read: Health Benefits And Side Effects Of Triphala, As Per Expert

Coriander

Coriander, the favourite garnishing ingredient of most of the Indian Chefs. It is commonly sprinkled over curries, dals, salads, and chat. These green leaves play a vital role in aiding our health. “Coriandrum sativum (Coriander) has been documented as a traditional treatment for cholesterol and diabetes patients,” research states. Coriander has phytosterols, the natural plant compounds that help you in lowering your cholesterol levels. 

Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Amla is another herb that tastes sour and is used in making mouth fresheners, juices and candies. As per study, use of Amla has shown a significant reduction in Cholesterol levels called triglycerides and without affecting levels of high-density lipoprotein, that is good cholesterol. 

Bottomline

It is very important to keep your cholesterol levels in check as their imbalance increases the risk of heart related disease. High cholesterol can lead to obesity which is one of the causes of majority diseases like diabetes. Without doing much, just take little steps to keep your health in check and keep chronic disease at a distance.