Hypolipidemic Herbs

Summary

Hypolipidemic Herbs

introduction: Numerous medicinal herbs have been shown to have hypolipidemic activity by various experimental assay methods. The active constituents responsible for hypocholesterolemic (and/or hypotrigyceridemic activity) are diverse, although one large group of compounds that is widely distributed are the phytosterols. Of these, a few have been studied in humans, and in some cases activity on specific lipoprotein fractions has been analyzed. Several of these are available in commercial preparations, either as single extracts or in combination products. It is usually suggested that these products be used in conjunction with other methods for reducing excessive serum lipid levels, such as dietary modification of fat intake, caloric reduction, and exercise.

For pharmacology, see, for example, Allium sativum (Garlic).

For phytosterol containing herbs, see Herb Group: Ob/Gyn: Gynecological Herbs

overview of interactions:
• herb supporting nutrient: Dietary Fiber

• herbal synergy: GI Modifiers: Hydrocolloids

• herbal synergy: GI Modifiers: Bitters

• herbal concern: Weight loss products and Ephedra sinica.



Herbs

herb supporting nutrient: Dietary Fiber

• mechanism: Hypolipidemic herbs will synergize with use of dietary fiber in moderating cholesterol levels.

herbal synergy: GI Modifiers: Hydrocolloids

• mechanism: Hypolipidemic herbs will synergize with use of soluble fiber herbs and dietary supplements.

herbal synergy: GI Modifiers: Bitters

• mechanism: Hypolipidemic herbs will synergize with use of bitter herbs that are hepatic stimulants and choleretics.

herbal concern: Weight loss products and Ephedra sinica

• mechanism: Herbal agents sold as fat burner weight loss products are usually based on adrenomimetics such as Ephedra which have no effect on cholesterol levels but increase lipolysis and beta-oxidation. For a discussion of weight loss and adrenomimetic herbs, see Ephedra sinica .

Common herbs with hypolipidemic activity: (human data):
Allium sativum (Garlic)
• Commiphora mukul (Guggul)
• Cynara scolymus (Artichoke)
• Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi)
Panax ginseng (Chinese Ginseng)
• Polygonum multiflorum (Zhi He Shou Wu)
• Rheum palmatum (Rhubarb root)
• Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fennel)

Common herbs/foods with hypolipidemic activity or constituents:
Allium cepa (Onion)
• Anacardium occidentale (Cashew)
Capsicum frutescens (Cayenne)
• Centella asiatica (Gotu kola)
• Cichorium intibus (Chicory)
• Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon seed)
• Cucurbita maxima (Pumpkin Seed)
• Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel seed)
• Glycine max (Soybean)
• Lycopersicon esculentum (Tomato fruit)
• Macadamia spp. (Macadamia seed)
• Medicago sativa (Alfalfa)
• Oenothera biennis (Evening Primrose seed)
• Opuntia spp. (Prickly pear cactus, fruit and stem)
• Panax quinquefolium (American Ginseng)
• Prunus armeniaca (Apricot seed)
Silybum marianum (Milk Thistle)
• Thymus vulgaris (Common Thyme)
Zingiber officinale (Ginger)




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Do not rely solely on the information in this article.

The information presented in Interactions is for informational and educational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, case reports, and/or traditional usage with sources as cited in each topic. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals and different individuals with the same medical conditions with the same symptoms will often require differing treatments. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with conventional medical therapies, including prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications, is also available. Consult your physician, an appropriately trained healthcare practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health concern or medical problem before using any herbal products or nutritional supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications and/or before attempting to independently treat a medical condition using supplements, herbs, remedies, or other forms of self-care.



References

Bone K. Clinical Applications of Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs. Queensland, Australia: Phytotherapy Press, 1996.

Duke JA. Handbook of Phytochemical Constituents of GRAS Herbs and Other Economical Plants. CRC Press, 1994.

McGuffin M, et al.(eds.) AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook. CRC Press, 1997