One of the leading causes of death in today’s age is cardiovascular disease. Many people have sought different kinds of medication to help them with the life-threatening condition. Baby aspirin is among the drugs prescribed by medical professionals to minimize the risk of stroke and other heart disease. However, there may be side effects associated with the use of such medication. Hence, people turn to natural alternatives as a safer way that renders the same benefits without the danger of unwanted side effects.
Baby aspirins are low-dose type aspirins (at 75 mg) that help reduce the blood clot formation therefore lowering the risk of stroke and heart attack. This type of aspirin is prescribed to those who suffered stroke or heart attack and needs to be taken on a daily basis for life. However, studies show that long-term use of it leads to a more severe side-effects. The risks involve in taking the baby aspirin outweigh the benefits.
Fortunately, there are safer and natural alternatives without the risk. Not only will these help in prevention the way the aspirin works, it has also other benefits that are essential to one’s health. Coupled with healthy diet and regular exercise, these following substitutes prove to be efficacious.
Ginger root or rhizome
The use of ginger dates back to Ancient history where its main purpose is for adding spice to a dish. Originated in South China, it was exported to other parts of the countries where spice trade is a profitable business during that time. Now, this healing herb is widely used not only for cooking but as medicine as well. This natural alternative has many healing properties and some of it is beneficial to the heart. It is anti-inflammatory which has the same effect as pain relievers but with additional benefits such as lowering LDL cholesterol, memory enhancer, strengthen immunity, and more.
Turmeric
This is an Indian spice that belongs to the ginger family. Curcumin is the main ingredient of the spice that gives it the yellow or orange color. Curcumin is anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing. It also gives protection from cardiovascular disease by preventing the cholesterol to oxidate which often leads to harmful plaque buildup in the arteries thus resulting to stroke or heart attack.
Cayenne
The active ingredient that gives cayenne its spicy effect is called capsaicin which helps improve the circulation of blood, stabilizes the blood pressure and stops heart attack in less than a minute. It also contains vitamin A, E, C and flavonoids, which helps the cells from the damaging free-radicals.
Hibiscus Flower Tea or Hibiscus Sabdariffa
Commonly known as Roselle or Jamaica, is an herbal tea rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants and minerals. They are found in tropical places in the world with warm temperature. Its active ingredient, anthocyanin, helps in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases by lowering high blood pressure and bad cholesterol.
Basil Leaves
Belonging to a mint family, basil is a very powerful health booster. While most people know this herb as a world-famous seasoning to a cuisine or garnish, it also helps in protecting the heart with its analgesic, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also rich in vitamins A, K and magnesium, a mineral that is good for the heart.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is derived from the seeds of an argan tree from Morocco. Its seeds are roasted then ground into paste using a quern stone while by adding small amount water during the process. Once the paste is ready, it will be squeezed by hand to extract the oil. Argan oil contains tocopherol, a member of the vitamin E family, unsaturated fatty acids that help in reducing the risk of heart disease.
Hawthorn Tea
A member of the rose family, hawthorn is a shrub which originated in Europe. Its leaves and flowers contain phytonutrients which is an antioxidant beneficial to the cardiovascular system. Hawthorn tea is notably known for strengthening the heart, restoration of its muscle walls and promotes healthy blood circulation
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 is an unsaturated fat that can be found in walnuts, soybeans, flaxseed but more potent in fish such as herring, tuna, salmon, mackerel and sardines. Eating fish at least twice a week can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Aside from reducing the risk in cardiovascular diseases, omega 3 fatty acids also helps in brain function, enhances bone integrity, and lower triglycerides for diabetics.
Fiber
Though most of the people have known fiber to help with the digestive system, a diet rich in fiber can be very beneficial to protect the heart. High-fiber food can be found on whole grain food such as bread, pasta, brown rice, and barley, oatmeal and cereals. Adding whole grains to daily diet helps in lowering bad cholesterol, reduce the risk of stroke and type-2 diabetes.
Before taking any of the above-mentioned alternatives, it will still be best to consult first with your doctor to help you decide what’s best for your health.