Strokes are often caused by blood clots, which can form in the arteries of the brain or travel to the brain from elsewhere in the body. One of the foremost methods of preventing the disruption of blood flow to the brain, which results in a stroke, is to prevent excessive clotting of the blood. There are several herbal remedies available that have anticlotting properties and can therefore lower the risk of stroke.
Garlic
Garlic is a potent anticoagulant agent and is useful in ischemic stroke prevention. Individuals who are using garlic to prevent a stroke can benefit from its properties by taking garlic capsules. Using garlic in cooking can also be beneficial, but it can be difficult to ingest enough garlic to get a consistent result.
Willow
Willow bark has the same blood-thinning properties as aspirin, which is commonly used as a stroke prevention measure. To prevent clots that could lead to a stroke, this herb should be taken in a small dose on a daily basis. Using dried willow bark to brew a tea, or adding it to another herbal tea blend, are typical means of preparation.
Ginger
Ginger is an herb that acts to help prevent strokes in several ways. First, ginger acts to prevent blood clots. In addition, ginger helps stimulate blood flow by relaxing muscles around blood vessels. Finally, it lowers cholesterol, which can help to prevent narrowing arteries and lower an individual's stroke risk.
Additional Remedies
Many additional herbal remedies exist for stroke prevention, including ginkgo biloba, which improves blood flow and prevents clotting. Turmeric, an ingredient found in curry, is another herb that prevents blood clots and assists in stroke prevention. Evening primrose oil lowers blood pressure and prevents clotting as well. Finally, hawthorn is an herb that slows the hardening of arteries, which can contribute to the risk of stroke.
Considerations
Before using any herbal remedies, individuals who are at risk for a stroke should consult a physician to ensure that the herbs will not cause additional problems. Herbal remedies can interact with over-the-counter and prescription medications, so a doctor should evaluate all potential interactions prior to use. In addition, individuals who are at risk for a hemorrhagic stroke should avoid any use of blood-thinning herbs or medicines.
Tags: stroke prevention, blood clots, blood flow, herb that, herbal remedies, risk stroke, help prevent