Is there a plant used to treat heart disease?

Coenzyme Q10
CoenzymeQ10, or CoQ10, or ubiquinone, is a chemical that plays a crucial role in a cell’s ability to extract energy from food. Because the heart is the hardest working muscle in your body, it’s essential that your heart have a constant supply of CoQ10 so it has energy to do its work. This chemical decreases with age and low cholesterol also depletes it.

This study shows that taking CoQ10 supplements reduces oxidative stress and increases antioxidant enzyme activity, relieving symptoms of cardiovascular disease. CoQ10 is safe and well-tolerated and although it’s not readily absorbed orally, a more “bioavailable” form, ubiquinol, offers better absorption into your bloodstream.

Statin therapy can deplete CoQ10, therefore anyone taking a statin drug should consider taking CoQ10 supplements.

Green Tea
For centuries, people around the world have consumed green tea for its health benefits. This study looks at one of its chief components, the antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), for its ability to protect the heart. The study shows significant benefits with the consumption of five to six cups of green tea per day. Green tea extract is also available as a supplement in capsule form.

Pomegranate
Like green tea, pomegranate juice has been consumed for centuries, with the belief that the ruby red fruit promotes health. Modern scientists prove this belief in this study. Powerful antioxidant chemicals in pomegranate fruit and juice may help reverse atherosclerosis and lower blood pressure.