10 Best Herbal Syrups For Palpitation

Herbal syrups have gained attention as natural remedies for managing palpitations, which are irregular or rapid heartbeats often linked to stress, anxiety, or underlying health conditions.

These syrups typically contain calming herbs such as valerian root, passionflower, and lemon balm, which are known for their ability to reduce nervous system excitement and promote relaxation. Some formulations may also include hawthorn or ginger, which are believed to support cardiovascular health and ease heart-related symptoms. While herbal syrups may offer gentle relief for some individuals, they should not replace professional medical advice, especially for those with chronic or severe palpitations.

It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy to ensure safety and appropriateness for individual health needs.

1. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional herbal remedy often used to address symptoms such as palpitations, which are characterized by an irregular or forceful heartbeat.

Herbal syrups made from valerian root are believed to have calming properties that may help reduce anxiety and stress, two common contributors to palpitations. These syrups are typically prepared by extracting the active compounds from the dried roots and dissolving them in a sweetened liquid base, making them easy to consume. While some studies suggest valerian may have mild sedative effects, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Overall, valerian officinalis herbal syrups may offer a natural alternative for managing palpitations, though their effectiveness can vary among individuals.

2. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort, has been traditionally used for its potential calming effects on the nervous system, and some herbal syrups containing this plant may be used to support individuals experiencing palpitations.

These syrups are often formulated with additional herbs such as valerian root or lemon balm to enhance their sedative and anxiolytic properties. While not a substitute for medical treatment, they may help reduce stress-induced palpitations by promoting relaxation and balancing mood. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before use, as St. John's wort can interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for everyone.

Overall, these herbal syrups can be a complementary option for managing palpitations related to anxiety or mild emotional disturbances.

3. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential cardiovascular benefits, including its ability to support heart health.

Herbal syrups made from licorice root are often used to alleviate symptoms such as palpitations, which are irregular or rapid heartbeats, by promoting a calming effect on the cardiovascular system. The active compounds in licorice, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, may help regulate blood pressure and reduce stress-induced heart rhythms. However, long-term use of licorice syrup can lead to side effects like hypertension and electrolyte imbalances due to its mineralocorticoid-like effects.

As a result, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using licorice syrup for palpitations, especially for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or those on medication.

4. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, has been traditionally used for its calming properties and is often incorporated into herbal syrups to support cardiovascular health.

These syrups may help alleviate palpitations by promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which are common triggers for irregular heartbeats. The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and bisabolol, possess anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic effects that may contribute to its cardiovascular benefits. While not a substitute for medical treatment, chamomile syrups can be a complementary option for individuals experiencing occasional palpitations.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using chamomile or any herbal remedy, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or taking other medications.

5. Purple foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)

Digitalis purpurea herbal syrups have been traditionally used for their potential cardiovascular benefits, particularly in managing palpitations.

These syrups contain cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, which can help regulate heart rhythm by strengthening heart contractions and slowing the heart rate. However, they should be used with caution due to their narrow therapeutic window and potential for toxicity if not properly dosed. While some herbal preparations may offer similar effects to pharmaceutical digoxin, they are not regulated as strictly, and their efficacy and safety can vary.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using Digitalis purpurea syrups, especially for individuals with existing heart conditions or those on other medications.

6. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential calming and soothing properties.

While there is limited scientific evidence directly linking sage to the treatment of palpitations, some studies suggest that its compounds may help regulate heart rate and reduce nervous system overactivity. Herbal syrups made from sage are often used to support overall cardiovascular health and may help alleviate symptoms associated with anxiety-related palpitations. These syrups are typically prepared by infusing dried sage leaves in alcohol or glycerin, creating a concentrated form of the herb.

As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using sage syrup, especially for individuals with existing heart conditions or those taking medications.

7. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, is a herbal remedy often used to support hormonal balance and may help alleviate symptoms related to palpitations, particularly in women experiencing hormonal fluctuations.

Herbal syrups containing vitex are typically made from the dried berries and are often recommended for their adaptogenic properties that may help regulate the nervous system and reduce heart palpitations. These syrups are generally considered safe when used as directed, though they may interact with certain medications or hormonal treatments. They are most commonly used for conditions like premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause-related symptoms, which can contribute to palpitations.

As with any herbal supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

8. Heartworts (Leonurus cardiaca)

Leonurus cardiaca, commonly known as heart herb or purple deadnettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential cardiovascular benefits.

Herbal syrups made from Leonurus cardiaca are believed to support heart health and may help alleviate symptoms such as palpitations by promoting rhythmic and steady heart function. These syrups are often prepared using the dried leaves and flowers of the plant, which contain compounds like flavonoids and tannins that may have calming and antispasmodic effects. While scientific research on its efficacy for palpitations is limited, many practitioners recommend it as a natural remedy for mild cardiac irregularities.

As with any herbal treatment, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with existing heart conditions or those taking medications.

9. Panax ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Panax ginseng herbal syrup is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to support cardiovascular health and alleviate symptoms such as palpitations by enhancing overall energy and regulating heart rhythm.

It contains ginsenosides, which are believed to have adaptogenic properties that help the body manage stress and reduce irregular heartbeats. While some studies suggest that Panax ginseng may improve cardiac function and reduce anxiety-related palpitations, more clinical research is needed to confirm its efficacy in this context. The syrup is often recommended as a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments for arrhythmias.

However, individuals with hypertension or those taking medications should consult a healthcare provider before using Panax ginseng syrup to avoid potential interactions.

10. Maypop (Passiflora incarnata)

Passiflora incarnata, commonly known as passionflower, has been traditionally used for its calming effects and is often incorporated into herbal syrups to help alleviate symptoms of palpitations.

These syrups are typically prepared by extracting the leaves and flowers of the plant, which contain compounds such as flavonoids and alkaloids that may help regulate heart rate and reduce anxiety. The soothing properties of passionflower can help ease the nervous system, potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of palpitations caused by stress or anxiety. Herbal syrups containing Passiflora incarnata are often recommended as a natural alternative for individuals seeking non-pharmacological support for heart-related symptoms.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using these syrups, especially for those with existing heart conditions or who are taking other medications.