Atherosclerosis, Intermittent Claudication and Angina
Atherosclerosis is the gradual build up of fatty plaques and calcium deposits on and within the artery walls. To some extent it is a natural part of aging, however there are factors which can dramatically increase an individual's tendency to narrowing of the arteries: these include first and foremost, smoking, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, poor diet, obesity, high blood pressure and lack of exercise. Like many other health problems, it is likely that some of us are more prone to this problem due to the genes we have inherited also.Intermittent claudication is a manifestation of atherosclerosis in which the major arteries in the legs become narrowed, and thus blood flow is reduced, so that when an affected individual does any exercise, lack of oxygen to the calf muscles causes pain. This pain characterisitically stops when the person stops exercising. Intermittent claudication is in many ways similar to angina, the difference being that in angina it is the arteries that feed blood to the heart muscle which are narrowed.
Strictly speaking there is no scientific evidence that herbs can reverse the narrowing of the arteries, but this is mainly because there has not been much research into the herbs which might be used. However, there is a lot that can be done to minimise the process and alleviate this condition.
1. Exercise is crucial as this helps to maintian the blood flow and there have been many research trials showing the benefits of ongoing exercise in this condition. Discuss an appropriate exercise programme with your GP and ask about any exercise referral schemes in your area where you can access well supervised programmes for free or at a reduced rate.
2. Stop smoking immediately. Smoking is by far the biggest risk factor. If you need help contact the NHS quitline 0800 00 22 00 ( http://www.quit.org.uk )
3. Get a high cholesterol reading under control. This can be done by diet and lifestyle changes, but if the reading is very high then you may need to take medication from your GP as well.
4. Get high blood pressure under control too.
5. Ensure that your diet is high in fruit and veg (at least 5 portions per day), low in animal fats and red meat, and that you are getting enough omega 3 essential fatty acids found in either oily fish or flax/hemp seed. These can also be taken as a supplement. A healthy diet will also help with weight loss.
6. Consider taking an anti-oxidant supplement as there is some evidence that certain vitamins and minerals do reduce tendency to atherosclerosis and stop blood from being too 'sticky'.
7. There has been much interest in the benefits of folic acid recenty. This is found naturally in fruit and veg, but if taken as a supplement, is always best in a B vitamin complex rather than on its own.
8. Have raw garlic and onion daily.
9. Last but not least, keep stress to a minimum as adrenaline can raise cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Keep a positive outlook and remind yourself that this is a condition that repsonds very well to lifestyle changes.
Herbally, hawthorn and limeflower are traditional rememdies with a reputation for helping to 'dissolve' fatty plaques due to their strong anti-oxidant properties. They also help to keep arteries dilated. These herbs need to be taken over the long term. Circulatory herbs such as Prickly ash, Ginkgo, ginger and rosemary can help to maintain a healthy blood flow.
Valerian and cramp bark are excellent for dilating the arteries, which can help with high blood pressure and act as relaxing remedies. Do check all the contra-indications for the herbs mentioned.
Intermittent claudication and angina are conditions that are best treated by a qualified practitioner who can give individual advice, make up a tailor-made herbal prescription and work around any orthodox medication you may be on. Go to http://www.nimh.org.uk to find a practitioner in your area.
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