Natural Treatment of Arrhythmia with Medicinal Herbs

Irregularities in the rhythm or number of heartbeats are called arrhythmia. The heart’s rhythm is driven by the contraction of the heart muscle, typically at 70–75 beats per minute under normal conditions. When the heart rate is higher than normal, it is called tachycardia; when lower, it is bradycardia.

Irregular heart rhythm is caused by a disturbance or interruption in the electrical impulses in the heart muscle. This irregularity is often a result of heart disease, issues with heart valves, or hormonal disorders (e.g., excessive thyroid activity).

Symptoms of arrhythmia include shortness of breath, air hunger, blue lips or limbs, rapid fatigue, trembling sensations below the sternum, a feeling of the heart beating too hard, fluid retention, and sometimes coughing.

Atrial fibrillation refers to irregular, chaotic electrical impulse propagation in the atria, leading to reduced contraction. It often results from structural heart disease but can occur in healthy young people. Irregular impulse transmission through the AV node to the ventricles causes an irregular, sometimes too fast or too slow, pulse, resulting in palpitations and potential loss of consciousness or heart failure. Prolonged cases may lead to blood clots and a risk of stroke.

Atrial flutter is an arrhythmia in healthy or structurally altered hearts, caused by a circulating electrical impulse in the right atrium.

Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia is a circular arrhythmia where an extra pathway in the heart conducts electrical impulses incorrectly, causing rapid heart rates (often over 200 beats per minute). While generally not dangerous, it is highly uncomfortable and may require emergency treatment.

Extrasystoles are additional heartbeats caused by impulses outside the normal sinus node. Supraventricular extrasystoles originate in the atria, while ventricular ones originate in the ventricles. They are common in healthy people and usually don’t require treatment unless frequent or complex, indicating heart disease.

Ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation are rare, life-threatening arrhythmias causing inadequate ventricular contractions, severe blood pressure drops, and potentially fatal outcomes if prolonged. High-risk patients may require antiarrhythmic drugs or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator.

Self-Help Measures for Natural Treatment of Arrhythmia

Incorporate these holistic remedies to support heart rhythm and overall cardiovascular health:

1. Adopt an Alkaline Diet: Eat fresh fruits and vegetables to reduce heart strain and support overall health.
2. Minimize Salt Intake: Avoid salt to help regulate blood pressure and reduce fluid retention.
3. Eliminate Stimulants: Avoid nicotine, coffee, and most alcohol; small amounts of red wine may be acceptable due to tannins.
4. Incorporate Garlic: Consume garlic for its allicin content, which supports blood pressure, circulation, and cholesterol levels.
5. Maintain Healthy Weight: Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight to reduce cardiovascular stress.
6. Lower Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Include foods rich in lecithin, vitamin C, and raw carrots to support heart health.
7. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to minimize stress-related arrhythmia triggers.
8. Prioritize Rest: Avoid overexertion and take regular breaks to reduce fatigue and heart strain.
9. Enhance Circulation: Use dry towel rubbing, alternating hot and cold showers, or cold chest compresses to stabilize blood flow.
10. Practice Deep Breathing: Perform deep breathing exercises to calm the heart and reduce arrhythmia episodes.
11. Massage with Hawthorn: Apply hawthorn ointment to the chest to support heart function and circulation.
12. Use Herbal Preparations: Take lemon balm, valerian, St. John’s wort, nettle, or hawthorn supplements to promote heart health, with medical approval.
13. Drink Heart-Supporting Teas: Sip camphor, hawthorn, or mistletoe teas to strengthen heart tissue and lower blood pressure.
14. Stay Active Outdoors: Spend time in fresh air to improve mood and cardiovascular health.

Important Note

Arrhythmia can be life-threatening, especially in severe cases like ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Consult a healthcare professional immediately for diagnosis, treatment, or if symptoms like palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath occur.