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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and limitations of the information provided here.
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.
Do not rely solely on the information in this article.
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