10 Best Herbal Teas For High Cholesterol

Herbal teas can be a natural and effective complement to a cholesterol-lowering diet, as they often contain compounds that help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol.

Popular herbs such as green tea, garlic tea, and hawthorn have been studied for their ability to improve lipid profiles by promoting healthy cholesterol metabolism and reducing oxidative stress. These teas work by supporting liver function, enhancing the excretion of cholesterol, and potentially inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats. While they are generally safe, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal teas, especially if you are on medication for cholesterol or other health conditions.

Incorporating herbal teas into a balanced lifestyle can contribute to better cardiovascular health when used as part of a holistic approach.

1. Allium sativum

Allium sativum, commonly known as garlic, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to support cardiovascular health, particularly in managing high cholesterol levels.

The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin, are believed to help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, while potentially increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol. When consumed as a herbal tea, garlic can be processed to enhance its bioavailability and reduce any strong flavors, making it more palatable for regular use. Studies suggest that regular consumption of garlic tea may contribute to improved lipid profiles, though it should be used as a complementary therapy rather than a replacement for medical treatment.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating garlic tea into a cholesterol management plan.

2. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to support cardiovascular health, including managing high cholesterol levels.

Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, sage may help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, while promoting healthier lipid profiles. Studies suggest that sage may improve cholesterol metabolism by enhancing the activity of enzymes involved in lipid breakdown. However, it is important to note that while sage tea may offer supportive benefits, it should not replace prescribed medical treatments for high cholesterol.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating sage into a cholesterol management plan.

3. Vitis vinifera

Vitis vinifera, commonly known as the grape vine, is the source of several herbal teas that are believed to support heart health and help manage high cholesterol levels.

These teas often contain resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Herbal teas made from Vitis vinifera leaves or seeds can promote cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and reducing oxidative stress in the body. While these teas are not a substitute for medical treatment, they may complement a healthy diet and lifestyle in managing cholesterol.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating any herbal supplements into your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

4. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits, including supporting cardiovascular health.

When brewed into a tea, stinging nettle may help lower cholesterol levels due to its high content of antioxidants, minerals, and compounds that support liver function and detoxification. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of nettle tea may reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, while maintaining or improving high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using nettle tea as a supplement, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medications.

While it may be a beneficial complementary therapy, it should not replace conventional medical treatments for high cholesterol.

5. Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, is often used in herbal teas to support heart health and manage high cholesterol levels.

The active compounds in cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde and polyphenols, have been shown to help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Regular consumption of cinnamon tea may improve insulin sensitivity and promote better lipid metabolism, which can contribute to lower cholesterol levels. However, it is important to note that while cinnamon tea may offer some benefits, it should not replace prescribed medications or a balanced diet.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating cinnamon tea into a cholesterol management plan.

6. Silybum marianum

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy commonly used in the form of tea to support liver health and potentially aid in managing high cholesterol levels.

The active compound in milk thistle, silymarin, is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and improve lipid metabolism. While some studies suggest that milk thistle may lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in this regard. Herbal teas made from silybum marianum are generally considered safe when consumed in moderation, though they should not replace prescribed medications without consulting a healthcare professional.

As with any supplement, it is important to discuss the use of milk thistle tea with a doctor, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking other medications.

7. Gymnema sylvestre

Gymnema sylvestre, often referred to as the "sugar destroyer," is an Ayurvedic herb that has gained attention for its potential benefits in managing high cholesterol.

Herbal teas made from Gymnema sylvestre are believed to support healthy lipid levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing the absorption of sugars and fats in the intestines. Some studies suggest that the herb may help lower LDL cholesterol, often called "bad" cholesterol, while also supporting overall cardiovascular health. These teas are typically made by steeping the dried leaves or extracts of the plant in hot water, and they are often consumed as part of a holistic approach to wellness.

While more research is needed, Gymnema sylvestre herbal tea is considered a natural supplement that may complement traditional cholesterol-lowering strategies.

8. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is a popular herbal ingredient used in teas to support heart health, particularly in managing high cholesterol levels.

Ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have been shown to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Regular consumption of ginger tea may help improve lipid profiles by increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. Studies suggest that ginger can also reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are linked to the development of atherosclerosis.

While ginger tea is generally safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using it as a supplement for cholesterol management, especially for individuals on medication.

9. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a popular herbal ingredient used in teas to support heart health, particularly in managing high cholesterol levels.

The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, is believed to help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as "good" cholesterol. When consumed as a herbal tea, turmeric may also promote anti-inflammatory effects and improve overall metabolic function, which can contribute to better cholesterol management. However, it is important to note that while turmeric tea may offer supportive benefits, it should not replace medical advice or prescribed treatments for high cholesterol.

As with any herbal supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating turmeric tea into a cholesterol management plan.

10. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential cardiovascular benefits.

Some studies suggest that licorice root may help reduce cholesterol levels by promoting the excretion of bile acids and improving liver function. However, it is important to note that licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which can cause side effects such as hypertension and fluid retention if consumed in high doses or for prolonged periods. As a result, it is generally recommended to use licorice root tea in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

While licorice root may offer some support in managing cholesterol, it should not be considered a substitute for conventional medical treatments.