By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Angina
Herbal decoctions for angina are a natural remedy that combines various herbs to create a tea-like liquid that helps alleviate symptoms of angina, a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
These decoctions work by relaxing blood vessels, reducing inflammation, and improving circulation, which can help reduce frequency and severity of angina attacks.
Examples of herbal decoctions that have shown promise in alleviating angina include ginkgo biloba, hawthorn berry, and garlic tea, which have been reported to improve exercise tolerance and overall quality of life for individuals with angina, allowing them to engage in daily activities without fear of debilitating pain.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for angina, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Crataegus monogyna
- 2. Ginkgo biloba
- 3. Panax ginseng
- 4. Taraxacum officinale
- 5. Sambucus nigra
- 6. Urtica dioica
- 7. Rosa damascena
- 8. Vaccinium myrtillus
- 9. Centaurea cyanus
- 10. Hypericum perforatum
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for angina?
- What ailments similar to angina are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn decoctions helps with angina because they contain flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) that have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system.
These compounds help to relax blood vessels, improve blood flow to the heart, and reduce inflammation in the coronary arteries. By doing so, hawthorn decoctions can help to alleviate anginal symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath, reducing the frequency and severity of attacks.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support cardiovascular health and manage angina.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna decoctions that help with angina.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Crataegus monogyna, particularly quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to improve cardiovascular health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in blood vessels, thereby alleviating angina symptoms.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes, including ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, in Crataegus monogyna have been shown to have vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to improve blood flow to the heart muscle and reduce the frequency and severity of angina attacks.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including chlorogenic and caffeic acids, in Crataegus monogyna have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to protect the heart from damage caused by free radicals and inflammation, thereby reducing the risk of angina and other cardiovascular diseases.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make decoctions for angina.
- Leaves: High in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help reduce angina symptoms by improving cardiovascular health.
- Barks: Rich in salicylates, which have anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits that can help alleviate angina symptoms.
- Fruits: Contain flavonoids and other antioxidants that may help improve cardiovascular health and reduce angina symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for angina.
- Harvest fresh c monogyna leaves and twigs in early morning when they are at their highest moisture level.
- Dry the collected c monogyna leaves and twigs in a warm oven at 50c for 2 hours.
- Measure 50 grams of dried c monogyna leaves and twigs and add them to 1 liter of cold water.
- Bring the water to a boil and then simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal liquid extract.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with angina because they possess a unique combination of flavonoids, terpenes, and other bioactive compounds that work synergistically to relax blood vessels, improve blood flow, and reduce inflammation.
The decoction's potent antioxidant properties also help to scavenge free radicals, which can damage heart tissue and contribute to anginal episodes.
By reducing oxidative stress and improving cardiovascular function, maidenhair tree decoctions may provide relief from the symptoms of angina, allowing individuals to live a more comfortable and active lifestyle.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with angina.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids help with angina by reducing oxidative stress, improving blood vessel function, and increasing nitric oxide production, ultimately leading to improved blood flow and reduced inflammation.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene helps with angina by reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel function, and inhibiting platelet aggregation, which in turn reduces the risk of blood clots and improves blood flow to the heart.
- Ginkgolides: These diterpene lactones help with angina by inhibiting platelet-activating factor (PAF), a chemical involved in platelet aggregation and inflammation, which in turn reduces the risk of blood clots and improves blood flow to the heart.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for angina.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to contribute to their medicinal properties.
- Seeds: Seeds are used in decoctions for angina because they contain a high concentration of ginkgolic acid, which has been shown to have vasodilatory effects.
- Roots: Roots are another part of Ginkgo biloba used in decoctions for angina, as they contain compounds that may help improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for angina.
- Gather fresh ginkgo biloba leaves and stems in quantities of 1 teaspoon per cup of water.
- Combine the ginkgo biloba with 1 cup of boiling water and let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container to remove solids.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer preservation.
- Take 1 to 2 cups of the decoction per day to experience potential health benefits.
3. Panax ginseng
Ginseng decoctions helps with angina because it has been shown to improve blood flow to the heart, reducing the frequency and severity of anginal attacks.
The antioxidants and adaptogens present in ginseng decoctions help to relax blood vessels, increase oxygen delivery to the heart, and reduce inflammation.
Additionally, ginseng decoctions have been found to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, further contributing to their beneficial effects on cardiovascular health and alleviating symptoms of angina.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng decoctions that help with angina.
- Ginsenosides: These triterpenoid saponins help with angina by improving cardiovascular function, reducing inflammation, and promoting vasodilation, which can increase blood flow to the heart and reduce oxygen demand.
- Glycosides: These compounds, particularly ginsenoside Rb1, possess antioxidant properties that can help protect the heart from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, contributing to the management of angina.
- Saponins: Specifically, ginsenoside Rg1 has been shown to have a protective effect on the cardiovascular system by reducing inflammation, improving cardiac function, and inhibiting platelet aggregation, all of which can contribute to the alleviation of angina symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginseng used to make decoctions for angina.
- Roots: The most used part of Panax ginseng for making decoctions to treat angina is its roots, as they contain the highest concentration of ginsenosides, which are believed to improve cardiovascular health.
- Stems: Stems of Panax ginseng are also used in decoctions for angina due to their high content of bioactive compounds that help in improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation.
- Leaves: Leaves of Panax ginseng are utilized in decoctions for angina due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in protecting the heart from oxidative damage and reducing symptoms of angina.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginseng for angina.
- Gather 8-10 grams of dried panax ginseng root and rinse it with clean water before use.
- Cut the ginseng root into small pieces to increase its surface area for efficient extraction.
- Steep 8-10 grams of ginseng pieces in 1 liter of boiling water for 1-2 hours.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
- Store the herbal decoction in the refrigerator and consume it within 24 hours of preparation.
4. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with angina because it has been shown to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, reducing the frequency and severity of anginal episodes.
The diuretic properties of dandelion help to eliminate excess fluids from the body, further reducing fluid buildup that can contribute to angina. Additionally, the flavonoids present in dandelion may help to relax and dilate blood vessels, improving overall cardiovascular function and reducing the strain on the heart.
This natural approach can provide relief for those suffering from angina without resorting to medication.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with angina.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene helps with angina by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which may reduce the severity of angina symptoms by minimizing inflammation in blood vessels.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid phenolic compound has antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in blood vessels, potentially alleviating angina symptoms.
- Taraxasterol and other sesquiterpenes: These compounds have been shown to have vasodilatory effects, which can help widen blood vessels and improve blood flow to the heart, reducing the severity of angina symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for angina.
- Roots: Rich in saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate angina symptoms.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with angina.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and saponins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with angina.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for angina.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Clean the harvested taraxacum officinale roots and leaves thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Combine 1 part of taraxacum officinale roots and leaves with 5 parts of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal liquid.
5. Sambucus nigra
Elder decoctions helps with angina because it has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and relax blood vessels.
The decoction's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can damage cardiac tissue and contribute to angina symptoms. Additionally, the decoction's ability to dilate blood vessels can increase oxygen delivery to the heart, reducing chest pain and discomfort associated with angina.
Regular consumption of elder decoctions may also help to strengthen the cardiovascular system, improving overall heart health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with angina.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Sambucus nigra decoctions help with angina by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the heart muscle, thereby alleviating symptoms of angina.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Sambucus nigra decoctions help with angina by exerting antioxidant properties, which protect the heart from oxidative stress and inflammation, and may help improve cardiovascular function.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids in Sambucus nigra decoctions help with angina by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help improve blood flow and reduce oxidative stress in the heart muscle, thereby alleviating symptoms of angina.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for angina.
- Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are commonly used to make decoctions for angina due to their high content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Sambucus nigra are used for their vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to alleviate angina symptoms by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation.
- Barks: The barks of Sambucus nigra are used for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, thereby alleviating angina symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for angina.
- Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in late spring or early summer when they are in full bloom.
- Clean and dry the harvested flowers and leaves by spreading them on a clean cloth for at least 24 hours.
- Combine 20-30 grams of dried flowers and leaves in a clean glass container with 500 milliliters of boiling water.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes in a covered container to allow the herbs to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
6. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle decoctions helps with angina because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds that have a profound impact on blood vessels.
The decoction's ability to dilate coronary arteries and improve blood flow can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of anginal episodes.
Additionally, stinging nettle's anti-inflammatory properties help to relax vascular smooth muscle, further enhancing blood vessel dilation and reducing overall symptoms of angina.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with angina.
- Nasunin: A polyphenolic flavonoid antioxidant found in Urtica dioica, nasunin helps with angina by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in blood vessels, thus improving blood flow and reducing cardiac strain.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate angina by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage in blood vessels and the heart.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic diterpenoid, rosmarinic acid exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that contribute to the relief of angina by reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation, and protecting the heart from oxidative damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for angina.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to alleviate angina symptoms.
- Roots: The roots contain a higher concentration of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and iridoid glycosides, which are believed to exert a protective effect on the heart.
- Stems: The stems are a good source of mucilage, a thick, protective substance that may help soothe and calm the heart tissue, reducing angina symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for angina.
- Harvest the fresh or dried leaves and stems of urtica dioica plants.
- Clean the urtica dioica material by washing it with cold running water thoroughly.
- Combine 30 grams of fresh or 15 grams of dried urtica dioica material with 1 liter of water.
- Boil the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes to extract the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
7. Rosa damascena
Damask rose decoctions helps with angina because of its unique composition, which includes flavonoids, phenolic acids, and saponins.
These bioactive compounds have been shown to exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and alleviate symptoms of angina. The decoction's vasodilatory effects can also increase blood flow to the heart, reducing the frequency and severity of anginal episodes.
Additionally, damask rose has been traditionally used to improve circulation and relax blood vessels, further contributing to its potential benefits in managing angina.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa damascena decoctions that help with angina.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Rosa damascena decoctions, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system, thereby alleviating angina symptoms.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic compound found in Rosa damascena, has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help to reduce vascular inflammation and improve blood flow to the heart, thereby relieving angina symptoms.
- Rosa damascena essential oil compounds: These compounds have vasodilatory properties, which help to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow to the heart, reducing the severity and frequency of angina attacks.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of damask rose used to make decoctions for angina.
- Roots: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that help alleviate angina symptoms.
- Flowers: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that act as vasodilators, improving blood flow and reducing angina pain.
- Leaves: High in antioxidants and flavonoids that help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic damask rose for angina.
- Harvest rosa damascena flowers at dawn when dew is still present on the petals about 1 cup dried flowers.
- Steep the dried rosa damascena flowers in boiling water for 5-7 minutes with 1 cup flowers to 1 liter water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container discard solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature and then refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
- Use the cooled decoction as needed and discard any remaining liquid after 2 days.
8. Vaccinium myrtillus
Blueberry decoctions helps with angina because they are rich in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
The decoctions also contain flavonoids, which have been shown to relax blood vessels and improve the body's ability to regulate blood pressure. By reducing inflammation and improving blood flow, blueberry decoctions may help to alleviate angina symptoms by increasing oxygen delivery to the heart and reducing the frequency and severity of attacks.
This natural remedy can provide relief for individuals suffering from this chronic condition without the need for harsh pharmaceuticals.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium myrtillus decoctions that help with angina.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the blood vessels, which can contribute to angina symptoms by improving blood flow and reducing vascular constriction.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory effects, which can help improve blood flow to the heart muscle and reduce the severity of angina symptoms by lowering blood pressure and relaxing blood vessels.
- Catechins: These phenolic compounds have vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of angina by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation in the blood vessels, leading to improved heart function and reduced symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of blueberry used to make decoctions for angina.
- Leaves: The leaves of Vaccinium myrtillus are used to make decoctions for angina because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Buds: The buds of Vaccinium myrtillus are used to make decoctions for angina because they have been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health.
- Leaves: The leaves of Vaccinium myrtillus are used to make decoctions for angina because they have been shown to have vasodilatory effects, helping to improve blood flow and reduce symptoms of angina.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blueberry for angina.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh vaccinium myrtillus berries in late summer or early fall when they are ripe and dark purple.
- Rinse the vaccinium myrtillus berries thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of the vaccinium myrtillus berries with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly and cooled.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean cup to remove the solids.
9. Centaurea cyanus
Cornflower decoctions helps with angina because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The decoction has been traditionally used to ease chest pain by reducing inflammation in the blood vessels, improving circulation, and increasing oxygen supply to the heart. Additionally, cornflower's flavonoids and phenolic acids help to relax the blood vessels, decreasing blood pressure and further alleviating angina symptoms.
By targeting the underlying causes of angina, cornflower decoctions may provide a natural and effective way to manage this chronic condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centaurea cyanus decoctions that help with angina.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Centaurea cyanus decoctions have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in blood vessels, alleviating angina symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Centaurea cyanus decoctions possess vasodilatory properties, which help to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow to the heart, reducing the severity of angina.
- Saponins: Saponins in Centaurea cyanus decoctions have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels, improving blood flow and alleviating angina symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cornflower used to make decoctions for angina.
- Flowers: They are used due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help alleviate angina symptoms.
- Leaves: They are used because of their reported ability to relax blood vessels and improve circulation, which can help reduce angina pain.
- Seeds: They are used due to their possible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help protect against angina-related oxidative stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cornflower for angina.
- Harvest approximately 20-30 fresh or dried flowers in the early morning or afternoon when they are at their peak potency.
- Dry the flowers in a warm place for 1-2 weeks to prevent moisture from affecting their medicinal properties completely.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers with 1 cup of boiling water to make a strong decoction rapidly.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water thoroughly.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids before drinking the liquid immediately.
10. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort decoctions helps with angina because of its unique ability to improve blood flow to the heart, reducing the frequency and severity of anginal episodes.
The herb's active compounds, hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to increase nitric oxide production in the body, which relaxes blood vessels and enhances blood flow.
This natural vasodilation helps reduce the strain on the heart, allowing it to pump more efficiently and reducing symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue associated with angina.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum decoctions that help with angina.
- Hyperoside: This flavonoid glycoside helps with angina by exerting a vasodilatory effect, which improves blood circulation and reduces the heart's workload.
- Quercetin: As a polyphenolic compound, quercetin helps alleviate angina symptoms by scavenging free radicals, reducing inflammation, and preventing platelet aggregation, thus improving cardiovascular health.
- Hypericin: This naphthodianthrone compound has antioxidant properties that help protect the heart from oxidative stress and inflammation, which are associated with angina development and progression.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for angina.
- Leaves: Rich in hyperoside and other flavonoids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular-protective properties.
- Roots: Contain bioflavonoids and phenolic acids that help improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
- Flowers: Rich in nectar and flavonoids, including rutin, which may help improve blood flow and reduce symptoms of angina.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for angina.
- Harvest approximately one to two pounds of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves in the early morning.
- Clean the hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves thoroughly with filtered water to remove any debris or contaminants.
- Combine one to two ounces of the cleaned hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves with four cups of filtered water in a pot.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for angina?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with angina is a blend of Hawthorn (Crataegus oxycantha), Ginkgo biloba, and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera).
Hawthorn helps to improve blood flow to the heart, reducing symptoms of angina. Ginkgo biloba enhances circulation and reduces oxidative stress, while Ashwagandha calms the nervous system and reduces inflammation. This combination can help alleviate angina symptoms, improve cardiovascular health, and promote overall well-being.
However, consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
What ailments similar to angina are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to angina/decoctions.html">angina/decoctions.html">angina that are treated with herbal decoctions are coronary artery disease, hypertension, and heart failure.
Herbal decoctions of ingredients such as hawthorn berries, turmeric, and ginger have been used traditionally to improve circulation, reduce blood pressure, and alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions.
Decoctions may also be used to treat other cardiovascular issues like arrhythmias and chest pain.