Enlarged Heart
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Randy
Posted on: June 6, 2002

My father is 70 years old and has an enlarged heart which is causing him to be short of breath due lack of oxygen in the blood. My father was once a very active man until this malady. He is looking for a more natural way to get better other than surgery or doctor prescribed medications. Are there any herbs that could increase the oxygen levels in the blood naturally and increase the blood flow?

I recommend that you consult with an experienced herbalist or naturopath, who can assess and monitor your father’s condition and recommend specifically for your father’s needs.

Hawthorn is a specific remedy for an enlarged heart, where the blood supply cannot supply sufficient oxygen to the heart. Hawthorn dilates the coronary arteries, improving blood flow through the heart. Both the berries and the flowering tops are used.

Diet is important. Include at least 8 servings a day of fresh fruit and vegetables. They are both antioxidant, limiting damage to the arteries by free radicals, and provide roughage required to eliminate cholesterol. If it is difficult for your father to consume this amount, try blending raw fruits up with water to make smoothies and blend cooked vegetables in water to make soups. Fish, especially fatty fish like wild salmon, mackerel, sardines and herrings, provide omega-3 fatty acids that decrease blood clotting. Fatty meat, dairy products and hydrogenated oils in margarine, shortening and many processed foods, increase cholesterol and the risk of blood clotting. Red and blue berries, like blueberries, blackberries and raspberries, help to protect the blood vessels and decrease the risk of blood clotting. Oat bran provides fibre that helps to reduce cholesterol, reducing the risk of blood clotting.

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