By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Congestive Heart Failure
Herbal decoctions for congestive heart failure are a natural remedy that combines herbs to create a medicinal tea, specifically designed to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from this condition.
These herbal concoctions work by reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation, and enhancing cardiac function, which helps to relieve congestion in the lungs and body tissues.
For instance, a decoction made with Hawthorn berry, Green tea, and Turmeric has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of congestive heart failure, allowing patients to breathe easier, exercise more comfortably, and enjoy improved overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for congestive heart failure, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Crataegus monogyna
- 2. Digitalis purpurea
- 3. Tilia platyphyllos
- 4. Ginkgo biloba
- 5. Olea europaea
- 6. Quercus robur
- 7. Echinacea angustifolia
- 8. Lavandula angustifolia
- 9. Rosa rugosa
- 10. Verbena officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for congestive heart failure?
- What ailments similar to congestive heart failure are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because of its unique combination of flavonoids, procyanidins, and triterpenoid saponins.
These bioactive compounds work synergistically to improve blood flow, reduce blood pressure, and increase coronary artery diameter, thereby enhancing cardiac function. Additionally, hawthorn's antioxidant properties help protect the heart from oxidative stress and inflammation, further contributing to its cardioprotective effects.
By reducing symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling, hawthorn decoctions provide relief and improve quality of life for individuals suffering from congestive heart failure.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have been shown to improve heart function and reduce mortality in patients with congestive heart failure by increasing cardiac contractility and vasodilation.
- Triterpenoids: Ursolic acid has been found to have a positive inotropic effect, which means it increases the force of cardiac contractions, improving cardiac output and reducing symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: These glycosides have been shown to have a cardioprotective effect by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, improving cardiac function, and reducing mortality in patients with congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Fruits: Fruits are commonly used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure due to their high content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have cardioprotective effects.
- Leaves: Leaves are used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure due to their ability to improve blood circulation and lower blood pressure.
- Barks: Barks are used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure due to their high content of flavonoids and other compounds that have vasodilatory and antioxidant effects, which can help improve heart function.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried crataegus monogyna berries from a trusted source.
- Combine the dried berries with 500ml of cold water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes over medium heat.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
- Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature.
2. Digitalis purpurea
Foxglove decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because they contain digitalis, a natural compound that has been shown to increase the force of contraction in the heart muscle.
This can help improve cardiac function and reduce symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in people with congestive heart failure.
By increasing the strength of the heartbeat, digitalis helps to improve blood flow and reduce fluid buildup in the body, leading to improved overall cardiovascular health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Digitalis purpurea decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Digoxin: Digoxin helps to improve heart function in congestive heart failure by increasing the strength of heart contractions and reducing the heart's workload, which can help to alleviate symptoms of the condition.
- Digitoxin: Digitoxin has a similar mechanism of action to digoxin and helps to increase the heart's contractility and reduce its workload, thereby improving heart function and alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Gitalin: Gitalin has a role in Digitalis preparations as a bio-constituent that enables the active compounds to cross cell membranes, thereby increasing the efficacy of the digoxin-like compounds in treating congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of foxglove used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: The leaves of Digitalis purpurea are primarily used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure due to their high concentration of digoxin, a cardiac glycoside that helps regulate heart rhythm and increase cardiac output.
- Stems: The stems are also used, as they contain a significant amount of digoxin and other cardioactive glycosides that aid in treating congestive heart failure by improving heart function.
- Roots: The roots are the primary source of digoxin and other cardioactive glycosides in Digitalis purpurea, which makes them a crucial part of decoctions used to treat congestive heart failure by enhancing cardiac output and reducing fluid buildup.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic foxglove for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest the digitalis purpurea flowers and leaves when the plant is in full bloom and the flowers are a deep purple color.
- Dry the harvested digitalis purpurea flowers and leaves in a warm dark place for several weeks.
- Crush the dried digitalis purpurea flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine one teaspoon of the dried digitalis purpurea powder with two cups of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes before straining and drinking the decoction.
3. Tilia platyphyllos
Broad-leaved lime decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because it has been shown to improve cardiovascular function by dilating blood vessels, reducing inflammation, and increasing cardiac output.
The decoction's high levels of flavonoids and polyphenols help to relax the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood efficiently.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of broad-leaved lime may also help to reduce oxidative stress and scarring in the heart muscle, leading to improved cardiac function and reduced symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the heart, contributing to the management of congestive heart failure.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes, particularly those like ursolic acid, may help alleviate heart failure symptoms by exerting vasodilatory effects, reducing blood pressure, and improving cardiac function.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as chlorogenic acid, may contribute to the cardiovascular benefits of Tilia platyphyllos by inhibiting the formation of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor that can worsen heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with stress relief and anxiety associated with heart conditions.
- Buds: Buds are used due to their calming effects, which can help reduce stress and anxiety related to congestive heart failure.
- Barks: Barks are used due to their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with heart conditions by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest 1 part of tilia platyphyllos leaves and flowers with the buds intact from mature trees in summer.
- Cut the harvested plant material into small pieces to facilitate extraction of active compounds and infuse in boiling water.
- Steep the plant material in 250ml of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean container to remove plant residue.
- Store the prepared decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
4. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because it is rich in flavonoids, saponins, and polyphenols, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help to relax blood vessels, improve cardiovascular circulation, and reduce systemic inflammation, all of which are beneficial for individuals suffering from congestive heart failure.
Additionally, the decoction's bioactive compounds may also help to strengthen the heart muscle, reducing symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Bilobalide: Bilobalide helps with congestive heart failure by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the heart, improving cardiac function and reducing symptoms of heart failure.
- Quercetin: Quercetin helps with congestive heart failure by reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular function, which in turn reduces the risk of heart failure and improves overall cardiac health.
- Isorhapontigenin: Isorhapontigenin (IRG) helps with congestive heart failure by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death in the heart, which in turn improves cardiac function and reduces symptoms of heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids which are responsible for the medicinal properties and are commonly used in decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Seeds: Ginkgo seeds are used due to their potential to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can be beneficial in managing congestive heart failure.
- Buds: The buds of the Ginkgo biloba plant may be used to prepare decoctions due to their potential to improve cardiovascular health and reduce symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest 2-3 cups of dried ginkgo biloba leaves from a trusted source for medicinal use.
- Rinse the leaves thoroughly with water to remove any debris or impurities present.
- Combine the ginkgo biloba leaves with 4 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 30-40 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids, then let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Olea europaea
Olive decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because of its ability to improve cardiovascular health.
The antioxidants present in olive decoction, such as oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which are common underlying causes of heart failure. Additionally, the decoction's anti-inflammatory properties can help to decrease blood pressure and improve cardiac function, reducing symptoms of congestive heart failure and improving overall quality of life.
This natural remedy has been shown to be a promising adjunct therapy for managing this chronic condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Olea europaea decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Oleuropein: This secoiridoid phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Vitamin e: As an antioxidant, vitamin E can help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the heart and blood vessels, which can contribute to congestive heart failure.
- Tyrosol: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, tyrosol may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system, improving heart function and reducing symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of olive used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate heart failure symptoms.
- Seeds: They are used because they contain oleuropein, a compound that has been shown to improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and inflammation.
- Fruits: They are used due to their rich content of antioxidants, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds that help protect the heart and reduce the risk of heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic olive for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest mature olea europaea leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the clean olea europaea leaves and flowers into small pieces to enhance their medicinal properties and release their active compounds.
- Combine the chopped olea europaea material with 500ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container to create the decoction.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 20 minutes to extract the bioactive compounds from the olea europaea leaves and flowers.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solid plant material and obtain a clear liquid solution.
6. Quercus robur
English oak decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because they have a unique ability to improve cardiovascular function.
The decoction's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the heart. This can lead to improved cardiac output, reduced peripheral resistance, and enhanced blood flow, ultimately alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
The decoction's ability to relax blood vessels and improve vasodilation also helps to reduce blood pressure, further contributing to its beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Quercus robur decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, contributing to improved heart function.
- Saponins: Saponins in Quercus robur have been shown to have vasodilatory and anti-hypertensive effects, helping to reduce blood pressure and improve cardiac output, which is beneficial for individuals with congestive heart failure.
- Tannins: Tannins in Quercus robur have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system, which can contribute to improved heart function and reduced symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english oak used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: The leaves are often used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with congestive heart failure.
- Roots: The roots are another commonly used part due to their high content of saponins, which can help improve cardiovascular function and reduce blood pressure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english oak for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest fresh quercus robur leaves from a healthy tree at dawn when they are most potent.
- Dry the quercus robur leaves in a well-ventilated area for 2 weeks to remove excess moisture.
- Combine 30 grams of dried quercus robur leaves with 1 liter of cold water in a large pot.
- Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes to release the active compounds and create a decoction.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids and discard the solids.
7. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because they possess potent anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the heart and blood vessels, alleviating symptoms of cardiac congestion.
The decoctions' antioxidant compounds also help protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Additionally, the herbs' ability to regulate blood pressure and improve vasodilation helps to alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure, allowing for improved circulation and reduced fluid buildup in the lungs and extremities.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help with congestive heart failure by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, which can contribute to the progression of heart failure.
- Alkaloids: These compounds may help with congestive heart failure by reducing blood pressure and heart rate, which can alleviate some of the symptoms associated with heart failure.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds may help with congestive heart failure by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system, which can contribute to the progression of heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Roots: They are rich in inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber that can help regulate blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
- Barks: They contain compounds like alkylamides and phenolic acids, which have been traditionally used to treat heart-related issues due to their potential to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help protect the heart from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots and clean them thoroughly under running water for 5 minutes.
- Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces and measure out 2-3 teaspoons for every 8 ounces of water.
- Combine the chopped roots with 8 ounces of boiling water in a saucepan and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup or bottle to remove any solids.
8. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because of its unique ability to calm and relax the cardiovascular system.
The essential oils present in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce blood pressure and improve cardiac function by reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, the decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate swelling and edema associated with heart failure.
By promoting a sense of calm and relaxation, English lavender decoctions may help improve symptoms and overall quality of life for individuals with congestive heart failure.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Linalool: This terpene has been shown to have vasodilatory properties, which can help reduce blood pressure and alleviate congestion in the heart.
- Linalyl acetate: As a terpene, linalyl acetate has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the heart, contributing to congestive heart failure.
- Apigenin: This phenolic compound has been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the heart from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Leaves: They are used due to their reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which may help alleviate symptoms associated with congestive heart failure.
- Flowers: They are used due to their potential to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which may help alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure by reducing stress on the heart.
- Stems: They are used due to their reported antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which may help protect the heart from oxidative stress and inflammation associated with congestive heart failure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh or dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and leaves with clean scissors or a herb cutter.
- Rinse the harvested flowers and leaves with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the prepared lavandula angustifolia flowers and leaves with 1 cup of boiling water.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and active compounds to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids and discard.
9. Rosa rugosa
Beach rose decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because they contain powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system.
The decoction's flavonoids and phenolic acids also have vasodilatory properties, which can help to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Additionally, beach rose has been shown to have a positive effect on cardiac remodeling, helping to strengthen the heart muscle and improve its function.
By addressing these underlying factors, beach rose decoctions may help alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa rugosa decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help with congestive heart failure by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to have vasodilatory and antioxidant properties, which can help lower blood pressure, reduce vascular resistance, and prevent further heart damage.
- Rosa rugosa saponins: These saponins have been found to have cardio-protective effects, including the ability to reduce inflammation, improve cardiac function, and prevent apoptosis (cell death) in cardiac cells.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of beach rose used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Roots: They are used for their cardiotonic and diuretic properties, which help to alleviate congestive heart failure symptoms.
- Leaves: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce stress on the heart and improve cardiovascular health.
- Flowers: They are used for their vasodilatory and diuretic properties, which help to lower blood pressure and reduce fluid buildup in the body, alleviating congestive heart failure symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic beach rose for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of rosa rugosa flowers and leaves on a dry sunny morning after the first frost.
- Chop the harvested plant material into smaller pieces to release its oils and flavors.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 4-6 cups of water in a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes to extract the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container discarding the solids.
10. Verbena officinalis
Lemon verbena decoctions helps with congestive heart failure because it has a profound impact on the cardiovascular system.
The decoction's antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation in the blood vessels, improving blood flow and circulation. Additionally, its ability to relax smooth muscle tissue can aid in reducing blood pressure, alleviating symptoms of congestive heart failure. Furthermore, lemon verbena's diuretic properties can help remove excess fluid from the body, thereby reducing swelling and discomfort associated with this condition.
Overall, herbal lemon verbena decoctions offer a natural and effective way to manage congestive heart failure.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbena officinalis decoctions that help with congestive heart failure.
- Verbascoside: A phenylethanoid glycoside found in Verbena officinalis, verbascoside helps with congestive heart failure by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
- Isorhapontigenin: A lignan derivative present in Verbena officinalis, isorhapontigenin may help alleviate congestive heart failure symptoms by inhibiting the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a key component in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system that regulates blood pressure.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic diterpene found in Verbena officinalis, rosmarinic acid may contribute to the management of congestive heart failure by exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, which may help protect against cardiac damage and promote cardiovascular health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make decoctions for congestive heart failure.
- Roots: They are used due to their high content of iridoid glycosides, which are believed to have cardioprotective and diuretic properties.
- Leaves: They are used as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular function.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help reduce oxidative stress and improve heart health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon verbena for congestive heart failure.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh verbena officinalis flowers and leaves early in the morning for optimal potency and flavor.
- Cleanse the harvested herbs by gently rinsing them with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the cleaned herbs into small pieces using scissors or a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped herbs with 500ml of boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow extraction.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for congestive heart failure?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with congestive heart failure is a blend of hawthorn, ginseng, and dandelion root.
Hawthorn is known for its ability to improve circulation and reduce blood pressure. Ginseng helps to strengthen the heart and reduce inflammation, while dandelion root supports kidney function and aids in reducing fluid buildup in the body.
This combination can be made into a decoction by simmering 1 tablespoon of dried herbs in 1 cup of water for 10-15 minutes, three times a day.
What ailments similar to congestive heart failure are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to congestive heart failure that are treated with herbal decoctions are high blood pressure, kidney disease, and chronic bronchitis.
Decoctions made from herbs such as hawthorn, astragalus, and turmeric have been traditionally used to improve cardiovascular function, reduce inflammation, and promote circulation.
These herbal remedies can help alleviate symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling, providing relief for individuals with these chronic conditions.