Arteries are big blood vessels that carry oxygen and other nutrients from the heart to the rest of the body. When the arteries are healthy, they are elastic and flexible. But if there is too much pressure in the arteries or if the lining of the arteries is damaged due to oxidative stress then the arterial walls become stiff and thick. The blood flow is considerably restricted in these narrow arteries and as a result the organs and the tissues do not receive sufficient blood to function properly.
This hardening of the arteries is known as arteriosclerosis. Sometimes the buildup of fats and cholesterol in and on the arterial walls can also restrict the blood flow. The symptoms depend upon which artery is affected. If the heart arteries are affected then there is pain in the chest. If the arteries that carry blood to and from the brain are affected then there is numbness and weakness in the arms and legs. If the renal arteries become hardened then there is high blood pressure and kidney failure. If the arteries leading to the genitals are affected then there is difficulty in having sex.
Best Home Remedies For Arteriosclerosis
Pineapple
Pineapple is a very sweet and exotic fruit which has a number of medicinal values that are extremely useful for curing certain diseases and disorders. It contains huge amounts of bromelain which is a proteolytic enzyme which helps in reducing the stickiness of the blood platelets.
If the blood is less sticky then there are fewer chances of clot formation and subsequent blockages in the arteries. Bromelain also reduces the inflammatory response to any irritation or injury to the artery. Eat two servings of fresh pineapple daily.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper stimulates the blood flow and lowers the cholesterol levels in the blood. It also enhances heart output and reduces the risk of blood clotting. Cayenne pepper has the ability to strengthen the blood vessels in the limbs and help to increase the peripheral circulation thereby warming the hands and the feet. Add small amounts of cayenne pepper to all your dishes.
Turmeric
Turmeric is phenomenally rich in curcumin which has potent antioxidant powers. It strengthens the blood vessels and at the same time prevents any damage to the blood vessel walls. It also increases the blood flow and reduces serum lipids and cholesterol levels in the blood. Mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder into a glass of hot milk and consume this mixture twice daily.
Garlic
Garlic is another effective remedy for arteriosclerosis. It not only keeps the blood vessels in optimum health by lowering the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides but also inhibits the formation of new plaque by preventing oxidative damage. It also has anti-coagulant properties which dissolve the clots and allow the blood to flow freely. Swallow three or four cloves of garlic every morning.
Ginger
Ginger contains powerful antioxidants and proteolytic enzymes which prevent clots, lower cholesterol and decrease the blood pressure thereby preventing the arteries from becoming thick and stiff. Boil a cup of water and add one teaspoon of grated ginger to it. After ten minutes strain the tea and drink three to four cups of it daily.
