Just recently my brother ‘n’ law had a stroke. He is just over 50 years old. Every day I hear about someone under the age of 60 who has either died of stroke or had a stroke. Stroke is one of the top five killers of Americans and in many cases can be prevented.
Prevention of stroke can be treated holistically. Here are some proven herbs and plants that aide in the prevention and in some cases the treatment of stroke.
Most importantly get a regular check up and keep track of your blood pressure readings!
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is used both to prevent and treat stroke. It helps to prevent blood clots from developing and increases blood flow to the brain. This herb has also been shown to inhibit free-radical formation.
Ginkgo is widely used in Europe to treat complications of stroke, including memory and balance problems, vertigo and disturbed thought processes. Many studies show that this herb increases blood flow to the brain.
Note: Seek medical advice before taking ginkgo if you are regularly taking any type of blood-thinning medication, including aspirin. In large amounts, ginkgo may cause diarrhea, irritability and restlessness.
Garlic
Garlic helps prevent ischemic stroke in three ways:
Note: If you have hemorrhagic stroke, stay away from garlic and its other anti-clotting herbal relatives. (Ask your doctor whether you have ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.)
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is an excellent cardiac tonic.
Some additional herbs and plants that are helpful in preventing stroke:
Turmeric (Cucurma longa)
Many studies show that the compound curcumin, which is found in turmeric, helps prevent the formation of blood clots. Turmeric is an important herb in Ayurveda. It is also a key ingredient in Indian cooking and can be found in most curry spice blends. You might consider eating more curry dishes.
Carrots
In a Harvard study of 87,245 female nurses, consumption of carrots (and to a lesser extent, spinach) significantly reduced stroke risk. Women who ate five servings of carrots a week suffered 68 percent fewer strokes than those who ate carrots less than twice a month.
Lynnis Woods-Mullins is a Spiritual Health and Wellness Coach, Talk Show Host of “The Wellness Journey!” and CEO/Founder of PraiseWorks a faith based health and wellness company that provides services that address the needs of the mind, body and spirit. www.praiseworks.biz
Originally posted on Praise Works Health and Wellness.
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