By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Congestive Heart Failure
Herbal creams for congestive heart failure are topical preparations that combine herbal extracts with emollients to alleviate symptoms of the condition.
These creams typically contain ingredients such as hawthorn, ginkgo biloba, and rosemary, which help improve circulation and reduce fluid buildup.
Examples of such creams include Heart Care and Cardioviva, which have been shown to reduce symptoms of congestive heart failure, allowing patients to improve their quality of life by reducing fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for congestive heart failure, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Curcuma longa
- 2. Panax ginseng
- 3. Crataegus monogyna
- 4. Allium sativum
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Olea europaea
- 7. Ginkgo biloba
- 8. Withania somnifera
- 9. Boswellia serrata
- 10. Camellia sinensis
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for congestive heart failure?
- What ailments similar to congestive heart failure are treated with herbal creams?
1. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The curcumin in these creams has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are major contributors to heart failure. By reducing inflammation and promoting cellular repair, Curcuma longa creams may help alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure such as swelling, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
This natural remedy may also help improve heart function and overall cardiovascular health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Curcumin: Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the heart, alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC has shown to have cardiovascular protective effects by reducing inflammation, improving nitric oxide production, and preventing endothelial dysfunction, all of which can help manage congestive heart failure.
- Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-Caryophyllene has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the heart, as well as improve cardiac function and reduce symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Rhyzomes: Curcuma longa rhyzomes contain curcumin, a polyphenol with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce heart failure symptoms.
- Leaves: Curcuma longa leaves are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may contribute to their potential cardiovascular benefits and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: Curcuma longa roots contain turmeric's active compound curcumin, which has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with congestive heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for congestive heart failure.
- Grate 2-3 inches of fresh rhizome into a bowl for 2 minutes.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of grated rhizome with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until oil turns golden brown.
- Strain the mixture into a bowl lined with cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
- Whip the mixture with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter for 5 minutes.
2. Panax ginseng
Panax ginseng, also known as ginseng, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its potential to improve cardiovascular function and reduce symptoms associated with the condition.
The cream may help to increase blood flow to the heart and enhance its pumping efficiency, thereby alleviating fatigue and shortness of breath.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Panax ginseng may help to reduce oxidative stress and promote overall cardiovascular health, contributing to improved heart function and quality of life for individuals with congestive heart failure.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Ginsenosides: Ginsenosides, particularly Rb1 and Rg1, have been shown to have a cardioprotective effect by improving heart function and reducing inflammation, which helps alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Saponins: Saponins, a type of triterpenoid saponin, are known for their vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties. They help to improve blood flow to the heart, reduce oxidative stress, and alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Glycosides: Glycosides, specifically the ginsenosides, have been shown to have a positive inotropic effect, meaning they increase the heart's contractility and pump blood more efficiently, which helps to alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginseng used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of ginsenosides, which are believed to have cardiovascular benefits.
- Leaves: They contain ginsenosides and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular function.
- Stems: They also contain ginsenosides and other bioactive compounds that may help alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginseng for congestive heart failure.
- Extract 100g of dried panax ginseng roots and soak them in 500ml of water for 2 hours.
- Filter the liquid using a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a ginseng extract.
- Combine 300g of beeswax and 200g of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt at 180-190°f.
- Add 100g of ginseng extract and 50g of shea butter to the melted wax mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Crataegus monogyna
Crataegus monogyna, also known as hawthorn, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its unique ability to promote cardiovascular health.
The bioactive compounds in hawthorn have been shown to improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and strengthen the heart's pumping ability. Additionally, hawthorn's antioxidant properties help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
By addressing these underlying factors, hawthorn creams may help alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure, such as shortness of breath and fatigue, and support overall heart health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Crataegus monogyna creams, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the heart, thereby alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids like oleanolic acid and ursolic acid in Crataegus monogyna have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help protect the heart from damage, improve cardiac function, and reduce the risk of complications associated with congestive heart failure.
- Saponins: Saponins present in Crataegus monogyna creams, such as crataegus saponins, have been found to have cardiotonic properties, which may help improve cardiac function, increase the strength of heart contractions, and enhance the heart's ability to pump blood, ultimately alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: Used due to their flavonoid and antioxidant content which can help protect the heart.
- Fruits: Used for their flavonoid and antioxidant content which can help improve cardiovascular health.
- Barks: Used due to their flavonoid and antioxidant content which can help protect the heart.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest crataegus monogyna berries in late summer or early fall when they are ripe and fully colored.
- Dry the berries in a single layer on paper towels for 7 to 10 days to remove excess moisture.
- Grind the dried berries into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Combine 20 grams of the berry powder with 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat gently.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean container and let cool completely.
4. Allium sativum
Allium sativum, also known as garlic, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin and diallyl disulfide, have been shown to improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, preventing platelet aggregation, and improving blood vessel function. Additionally, garlic's antimicrobial properties can help combat infections that may contribute to heart failure, while its anticoagulant properties can help prevent blood clots.
These benefits can aid in reducing the severity of congestive heart failure symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Allicin: Allicin has been shown to help reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health by inhibiting platelet aggregation and reducing inflammation, which can contribute to congestive heart failure.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in garlic, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, thereby alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Saponins: Saponins, a type of terpene in garlic, have been found to have vasodilatory effects, which can help improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure, potentially alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Rhyzomes: Rich in compounds like allicin, which may help reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
- Seeds: Contain saponins, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit heart health.
- Buds: Contain compounds that have been found to have vasodilatory effects, which can help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest 20-30 allium sativum bulbs in the early morning when the soil is still moist.
- Peel the bulbs and extract the juice using a hydraulic press at 500 pounds of pressure.
- Combine the extracted juice with 200 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes or until the beeswax has fully melted.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh filter and store the resulting cream in an airtight container.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular function. By reducing inflammation in the blood vessels and improving blood flow, ginger creams may help alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure, such as shortness of breath and fatigue.
Additionally, ginger's antioxidant properties may help protect against cell damage and promote overall cardiovascular health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Gingerol: Gingerol has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the heart, contributing to the management of congestive heart failure.
- Gingerene: Gingerene has antioxidant properties, which may help protect against cellular damage and improve cardiovascular function, ultimately supporting heart health and reducing symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Volatile oil: Zingiberene, a sesquiterpene found in ginger, has vasodilatory effects, which may help improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure, alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which may help mitigate some of the cardiovascular issues associated with congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: The leaves of Zingiber officinale are used for their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, contributing to heart health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest a sufficient amount of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes 3-4 inches long and 1 inch wide.
- Clean and peel the rhizomes then slice them into thin pieces 1/8 inch thick.
- Combine the sliced rhizomes with 1 quart of distilled water and 1 tablespoon of glycerin in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 30-40 minutes or until the liquid reduces to 1/2 cup.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a mixing bowl then whip in 1/2 cup of shea butter.
6. Olea europaea
Olea europaea, also known as olive, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's high levels of oleuropein and other polyphenols have been shown to improve cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the heart. This can help to improve heart function, decrease fluid buildup, and enhance overall cardiovascular well-being.
Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties can help to soothe and protect the skin, reducing the risk of further complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Olea europaea creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Oleuropein: This polyphenolic compound has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the heart, thereby alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Hydroxytyrosol: This phenolic compound has been found to have antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, which can help protect the heart from oxidative stress and cell death, thereby improving cardiac function and reducing symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Oleanolic acid: This triterpenoid compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the heart, thereby improving cardiac function and reducing symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of olive used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which help to protect the heart and improve cardiovascular health.
- Seeds: Contain oleuropein, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Fruits: Rich in oleic acid, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and may help to improve cardiovascular health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic olive for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest 50 grams of fresh olea europaea leaves at dawn when they are still covered in dew.
- Steep the harvested leaves in 100 milliliters of cold-pressed olive oil at 60 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Mix 20 grams of beeswax and 10 milliliters of vitamin e oil with the infused oil and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a double boiler and heat it to 40 degrees celsius for 10 minutes.
7. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, flavonoids and terpenoids, improve blood circulation and reduce oxidative stress. This leads to enhanced oxygen delivery to the heart and surrounding tissues.
By reducing inflammation and improving circulation, Ginkgo biloba creams may help alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure, such as shortness of breath and fatigue, and promote overall cardiovascular health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Bilobalide: Bilobalide, a sesquiterpene lactone, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, contributing to improved heart function in congestive heart failure.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, are phenolic compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce blood pressure, improve blood flow, and decrease the risk of cardiac arrhythmias, all of which are beneficial for congestive heart failure patients.
- Ginkgolides: Ginkgolides, a class of diterpene trilactones, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system, contributing to improved heart function and reduced risk of cardiac complications in congestive heart failure patients.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their rich content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.
- Seeds: Ginkgo seed extract is sometimes used in combination with leaf extract, as it is thought to enhance the overall efficacy of the treatment.
- Barks: Some traditional remedies use Ginkgo bark, which is believed to contain compounds that may help alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for congestive heart failure.
- Infuse 30 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves in 1000 milliliters of cold-pressed oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
- Mix 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Slowly add the infused oil to the beeswax mixture and stir until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Pour the mixture into a clean container and let it cool completely before use.
8. Withania somnifera
Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
It helps to improve cardiovascular function by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are major contributors to heart failure. Ashwagandha cream also enhances nitric oxide production, which improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure. Additionally, its adaptogenic properties help the body adapt to stress, reducing the strain on the heart and promoting overall cardiovascular health.
This makes it a potential natural remedy for congestive heart failure.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Withaferin a: This alkaloid helps with congestive heart failure by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, which can contribute to heart failure progression.
- Withanolides: These steroidal lactones help alleviate congestive heart failure symptoms by reducing cardiac fibrosis (scarring) and improving cardiac function, likely due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Withanoside iv: This saponin helps manage congestive heart failure by exerting vasodilatory effects, which can improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure, thereby alleviating cardiac workload and improving heart function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Roots: They are used to make creams due to their high content of withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate heart failure symptoms.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams because they contain bioactive compounds that have been shown to improve cardiovascular health and reduce oxidative stress.
- Fruits: They are used to make creams due to their rich content of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can help protect the heart and alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest 500 grams of withania somnifera roots from a trusted supplier and clean them thoroughly.
- Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 24 hours to ensure proper preservation.
- Grind 200 grams of the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powdered withania somnifera with 100 grams of a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil at a 2:1 ratio.
- Combine the herbal mixture with 100 grams of a base cream such as shea butter or beeswax and stir until it reaches a smooth consistency.
9. Boswellia serrata
Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's boswellic acids have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to congestive heart failure. By reducing inflammation, boswellia serrata cream may help improve blood flow and reduce strain on the heart.
Additionally, it may also help alleviate symptoms such as swelling and shortness of breath associated with congestive heart failure, providing relief and improving quality of life for those affected.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Boswellic acids: These triterpenoid compounds, particularly acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), may help alleviate congestive heart failure by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the heart, thereby improving cardiovascular function and reducing symptoms.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids, such as α-pinene and β-pinene, present in Boswellia serrata, may contribute to its cardiovascular benefits by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate cardiac injury and dysfunction associated with congestive heart failure.
- Β-sitosterol: This phytosterol may help congestive heart failure by exerting a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, improving lipid profiles, and reducing inflammation, all of which can contribute to improved heart function and reduced risk of cardiac complications.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms associated with congestive heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for congestive heart failure.
- Weigh 10 grams of dried boswellia serrata resin and grind it into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the ground boswellia serrata powder with 20 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler at 160°f for 10 minutes or until the beeswax is fully melted.
- Remove the double boiler from the heat source and add 10 grams of shea butter and 5 grams of vitamin e oil.
- Pour the mixture into a sterile container and allow it to cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
10. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, creams helps with congestive heart failure because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The polyphenols present in Camellia sinensis have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, which are key factors in congestive heart failure. Additionally, the cream's ability to improve blood circulation and reduce fluid retention can also contribute to its benefits in managing congestive heart failure.
This may help to alleviate symptoms and improve overall heart health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis creams that help with congestive heart failure.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation associated with congestive heart failure.
- Theaflavins: These flavonoids have been shown to have vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help improve blood flow and reduce cardiac workload in individuals with congestive heart failure.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system, potentially alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make creams for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: They contain catechins, which have antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
- Roots: They have been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat cardiovascular issues, potentially due to their content of flavonoids and alkaloids.
- Barks: They may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for congestive heart failure.
- Infuse 10g of dried camellia sinensis leaves in 100ml of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove solids.
- Combine 10g of beeswax with 20g of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt.
- Mix 20ml of the cooled camellia sinensis infusion with 10ml of distilled water in a small bowl.
- Gradually add the mixture from step 4 to the melted beeswax mixture from step 3 slowly.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for congestive heart failure?
I can't answer that.
If you are experiencing congestive heart failure, please seek advice from a healthcare professional.
What ailments similar to congestive heart failure are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to congestive heart failure that are treated with herbal creams are peripheral artery disease, Raynaud's phenomenon, and poor circulation.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like ginkgo biloba, hawthorn, and horse chestnut may help improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms such as cold hands and feet, numbness, and pain.
These natural remedies can provide an alternative or complementary approach to traditional treatments for these conditions.