29 September 2021 World Heart Day
Today, 29 September is World Heart Day, created by the World Heart Federation to raise awareness on heart health. World Heart Day informs people around the globe that cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart disease and stroke, is the world’s leading cause of death claiming 17.9 million lives each year, and highlights the actions that individuals can take to prevent and control CVD. It aims to drive action to educate people that by controlling risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity, at least 80% of premature deaths from heart disease and stroke could be avoided.
There are many synthetic medicines available on the market, though they might cause side effects that need to be treated by other drugs and this undesired cycle goes on and on. Fortunately, modern science is rediscovering the health benefits of traditionally used herbs. Nettle (Urtica dioica) is one of the most studied medicinal plants that have the ability to positively affect the heart.
Research has revealed that frequent consumption of stinging nettle tea can help lower systolic blood pressure and relieve tension and stress on the cardiovascular system. Nettle offers a variety of active compounds many of which also act as antioxidants inside your body.
Nettle contains vitamins and minerals that are regarded as heart protectors. The plant is a source of vitamins A and C, beta carotene, and other carotenoids. Because of its high content of vitamin C and iron, which help the body boost red blood cell (RBC) production, it may help prevent anemia. Nettle also contains the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease. Nettle is a source of iron and potassium, tea made from this stinging plant may help to relax blood vessels and aid in healthy circulation.
It also helps to rebalance the body by acting as a tonic for the blood by balancing blood pH and safely flushing waste from the body.
Enjoy a cup of tea made with fresh or dried nettle leaves. Or add a few drops of nettle tonic to your beverage to purify your blood!
