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Last updated: Apr 11, 2024

10 best herbal teas for cholesterol

Certain herbal teas have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels naturally.

Hawthorn tea, for instance, has been known to improve cardiovascular health by reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Another effective option is turmeric tea, which contains curcumin, a potent antioxidant that helps to lower cholesterol and prevent blood clots. Additionally, ginger tea has been found to have a positive impact on cholesterol levels by reducing inflammation and improving lipid metabolism.

These herbal teas, when consumed regularly, can be a great addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle to support heart health.

1. Green Tea

Green tea contains catechins, a type of flavonoid known for their potent antioxidant properties.

These catechins help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the gut, lowering the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. Furthermore, green tea assists in increasing the good cholesterol (HDL), promoting a healthier balance. Additionally, green tea stimulates the liver to eliminate harmful cholesterol from the body.

Finally, consistent consumption of green tea strengthens blood vessels, inhibiting the buildup of plaque and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in green tea tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in green tea tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic green tea tea for cholesterol.

  1. Boil 8 ounces of fresh water to 160-170°F, avoiding a full boil to prevent bitter taste.
  2. Place one green tea bag or 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea in a cup or infuser.
  3. Pour the hot water over the tea and let it steep for 2-3 minutes to release antioxidants.
  4. Remove the tea bag or strain the loose tea to prevent over-steeping and bitterness.
  5. Consume the green tea regularly, ideally 2-3 cups daily, to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

2. Holy Basil

Holy basil tea contains ursolic acid and carnosic acid, compounds known to lower LDL cholesterol levels.

This herbal tea also reduces triglyceride levels due to its antioxidant and adaptogen properties, promoting heart health. Moreover, holy basil tea stimulates the breakdown of dietary fats, preventing the accumulation of cholesterol in blood vessels. By reducing cholesterol absorption in the intestines and enhancing its excretion, holy basil tea supports healthy cholesterol management.

Ultimately, regular consumption of holy basil tea improves lipid profile by decreasing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, while increasing HDL cholesterol.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in holy basil tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in holy basil tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic holy basil tea for cholesterol.

  1. Measure - Boil 2 cups of water with 1 tablespoon of crushed holy basil leaves for 5 minutes.
  2. Steep - Let the mixture steep for 10 minutes.
  3. Strain - Strain the liquid to remove the basil leaves.
  4. Sweeten - Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
  5. Serve - Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day for best results.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric tea contains curcumin, a compound with proven cholesterol-lowering properties.

This compound reduces LDL or "bad" cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while increasing HDL or "good" cholesterol levels. Curcumin accomplishes this by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver and enhancing its elimination from the body. Furthermore, curcumin's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol and the formation of plaque in the arteries, thereby lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Therefore, regular consumption of turmeric tea aids in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in turmeric tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric tea for cholesterol.

  1. In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of grated fresh turmeric (or 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric), bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the turmeric residue.
  4. Add honey, lemon, or milk to taste, if desired.
  5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day for best results.

4. Ginger

Ginger tea contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing the absorption of dietary cholesterol in the stomach.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, influence cholesterol metabolism and help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Studies demonstrate that ginger tea consumption enhances liver function, promoting better bile production and cholesterol excretion. Additionally, ginger tea's natural properties inhibit the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, reducing the risk of plaque formation in arteries.

Overall, ginger tea's ability to improve digestion, lower cholesterol, and protect against heart disease makes it a valuable addition to a balanced diet and lifestyle.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for cholesterol.

  1. Peel and chop 1-2 inches of fresh ginger root, then combine with 4 cups of water in a saucepan.
  2. Bring the ginger-water mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea to remove ginger pieces, and discard the solids.
  4. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of honey and the juice of half a lemon, if desired, for flavor.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy up to three cups daily to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

5. Cinnamon

Cinnamon tea decreases LDL cholesterol, known as "bad" cholesterol, while increasing HDL cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol, due to its rich cinnamaldehyde content.

This compound gives cinnamon its distinctive flavor and possesses properties that prevent cholesterol from forming into plaque in the arteries. Additionally, cinnamon is a potent antioxidant, effectively combating oxidative stress and further reducing cholesterol levels.

Furthermore, it inhibits the enzyme that generates fat cells, lowering overall cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the bloodstream, all of which contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in cinnamon tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in cinnamon tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cinnamon tea for cholesterol.

  1. Boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add 1 cinnamon stick or 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the boiling water.
  3. Allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove the cinnamon pieces.
  5. Optional: Add 1 teaspoon of honey or lemon juice for flavor and drink while warm.

6. Black Tea

Black tea contains an abundant amount of flavonoids, specifically catechins and theaflavins, which possess potent antioxidant properties.

These antioxidants can reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the body by limiting the activity of enzymes responsible for fat conversion. Furthermore, regular consumption of black tea stimulates the release of bile acid, which in turn facilitates the excretion of cholesterol from the body. Studies reveal that black tea's polyphenols decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol levels without negatively impacting HDL (good) cholesterol.

Long-term intake of black tea bolsters overall heart health by controlling cholesterol levels.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in black tea tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in black tea tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic black tea tea for cholesterol.

  1. Boil 4 cups of fresh, cold water in a tea kettle for 8-10 minutes until it reaches a rolling boil.
  2. Add 2 teaspoons of high-quality black tea leaves to a tea infuser or teapot.
  3. Pour the boiling water over the tea leaves and let it steep for 3-5 minutes to extract the nutrients and flavor.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the spent tea leaves.
  5. Serve the tea hot and enjoy its cholesterol-lowering benefits.

7. Oolong

Oolong tea contains antioxidants, specifically polyphenols, which have demonstrated abilities to lower LDL cholesterol levels.

These polyphenols work by reducing the body's absorption of cholesterol in the digestive tract. Additionally, oolong tea enhances the function of enzymes that break down cholesterol, further reducing its levels. Furthermore, it encourages the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids, which are then eliminated from the body.

Lastly, oolong tea's antioxidants provide protection to the arterial walls, preventing plaque buildup and promoting overall cardiovascular health.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in oolong tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in oolong tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oolong tea for cholesterol.

  1. Boil 2 cups of filtered water and let it cool down to 190-205°F (88-96°C).
  2. Measure 1 teaspoon (2-3 grams) of high-quality oolong tea leaves and place them in a teapot or infuser.
  3. Pour the hot water over the tea leaves and let them steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on desired strength.
  4. Remove the tea leaves or strainer before pouring the tea into a cup.
  5. Enjoy up to 3 cups of oolong tea daily to potentially help lower cholesterol levels.

8. Rooibos

Rooibos tea contains unique antioxidants, including aspalathin and quercetin, which exhibit lipid-lowering properties.

These compounds inhibit the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, preventing plaque buildup in arteries. Moreover, rooibos tea stimulates the absorption of cholesterol in the gut, reducing its overall levels in the body. Furthermore, rooibos encourages the liver to produce more high-density lipoproteins (HDL), or "good" cholesterol, which transports excess cholesterol to the liver for excretion.

Ultimately, regular consumption of rooibos tea contributes to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and cardiovascular function.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rooibos tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in rooibos tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rooibos tea for cholesterol.

  1. Boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes until it reaches a rolling boil.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of loose rooibos tea or 1 rooibos tea bag to the boiling water.
  3. Steep the tea for 5-7 minutes to allow antioxidants to release into the water.
  4. Remove the tea leaves or bag to prevent over-steeping and bitterness.
  5. Consume the tea 1-3 times daily, before or between meals, to help manage cholesterol levels over time.

9. Hibiscus

Hibiscus tea reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL), known as "bad" cholesterol, by preventing the oxidation of fatty acids in the body.

This tea contains antioxidants and anthocyanins that inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, promoting a healthier cardiovascular system. Studies reveal that hibiscus tea extract lowers both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the "good" cholesterol.

Furthermore, hibiscus tea's hypolipidemic and cardioprotective properties make it a natural, caffeine-free beverage to maintain healthy lipid profiles, contributing to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in hibiscus tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in hibiscus tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hibiscus tea for cholesterol.

  1. Measure out 2 tablespoons of dried hibiscus flowers.
  2. In a pot, combine the hibiscus flowers with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove the hibiscus flowers, then let it cool to drinking temperature.
  5. Serve and enjoy your homemade hibiscus tea for cholesterol management.

10. Rosemary

Rosemary tea contains carnosic acid, a compound that inhibits the synthesis of cholesterol in the body.

This occurs due to rosemary tea's ability to reduce the activity of HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme responsible for producing cholesterol. Moreover, rosemary tea increases the excretion of cholesterol through bile, thus lowering the overall cholesterol levels in the body. Additionally, rosemary tea's antioxidant properties protect the cardiovascular system by preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, reducing the risk of plaque formation in the arteries.

Lastly, rosemary tea's anti-inflammatory properties help manage cholesterol levels by reducing inflammation in the arterial walls, promoting better blood flow and cardiovascular health.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rosemary tea that help with cholesterol.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary tea that aid with cholesterol.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary tea for cholesterol.

  1. Boil 4 cups of water in a kettle or pot for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Add 2 teaspoons of fresh or dried rosemary leaves to a teapot or infuser.
  3. Pour the boiling water over the rosemary leaves and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove the rosemary leaves and discard them.
  5. Serve the rosemary tea hot and drink up to 3 cups per day for cholesterol reduction.

What is cholesterol and how can it affect your life?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that circulates in the blood.

It is essential for the formation of cell membranes, hormones, and vitamin D. However, when cholesterol levels become too high, it can lead to the formation of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This plaque narrows and hardens the arteries, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

Therefore, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is crucial for overall cardiovascular health and longevity.

What other natural remedies help with cholesterol?

Among the most common and effective natural remedies for lowering cholesterol are soluble fiber, nuts, and plant sterols.

Soluble fiber, found in foods like oats, barley, fruits, and legumes, absorbs cholesterol in the digestive system and carries it out of the body, thus reducing the amount of cholesterol available for the body to use. Nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios, contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that help decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Plant sterols, found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and fortified foods, also reduce cholesterol absorption in the digestive system.

Incorporating these natural remedies into a balanced diet, along with regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle, leads to a significant decrease in cholesterol levels.