When LDL cholesterol builds up, it clogs our arteries and weakens our heart. Before talking about miracle solutions, doctors always remind us of the essentials: a balanced diet, movement and stopping smoking.
But to give you a daily boost, science has looked into herbal teas. Several clinical studies show that infusing certain plants provides valuable support to protect your vessels.
Green tea, hibiscus, rooibos: the winning trio for your arteries
Green tea remains the most studied drink for cleaning up the lipid profile. According to a summary of 31 studies published on the website of the medical journal Nutrition Journal, regularly drinking green tea reduces total cholesterol as well as bad cholesterol. These benefits come from its antioxidants, the famous catechins. To enjoy it without disturbing your sleep, two to three cups per day without sugar are more than enough.
For its part, hibiscus has beautiful surprises in store for your heart. An analysis bringing together nine scientific studies confirms its ability to significantly reduce bad cholesterol.
Researchers from the American organization Tufts University even found that by consuming three cups of hibiscus infusion per day for six weeks, blood pressure also decreased.
As for rooibos, an experiment carried out by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology among 40 volunteers shows that regular consumption over six weeks improves the overall lipid profile by increasing good cholesterol.
Ginger and chamomile: real allies in your cup?
Ginger is another wise choice if you’re watching your blood work. A vast synthesis of clinical work listed by the scientific platform PubMed indicates that its active ingredients help reduce total cholesterol and bad cholesterol. Even if the effect of a simple root infused at home remains milder than that of the concentrated extracts used in the tests, swapping a sweet drink for this spicy drink already does a world of good for your health.
Chamomile is not only used to help you sleep. An analysis compiling four clinical trials highlights a significant reduction in total cholesterol in chamomile drinkers. Its protective plant substances fight against oxidation in the body, a very positive point for keeping arteries healthy in the long term.
How to integrate these infusions into your daily life without risk
These drinks remain excellent preventative habits, but they do not replace your doctor’s recommendations or your usual treatment. If you are already taking cholesterol medications or blood thinners, seek medical advice before consuming large quantities of these plants.