Rather than taking medication and undergoing doctor-recommended stroke treatment, many people prefer to use natural remedies to treat this condition. However, any treatment using natural remedies should always be consulted with a doctor first. The same goes for alternative treatments. So, what herbal remedies can be used to treat stroke? Read on for the explanation below.
Unlike medical stroke treatments that are usually recommended by doctors, natural remedies are usually used as additional treatments to overcome stroke conditions.
Herbal remedies for stroke usually include natural ingredients you're familiar with. Some of these remedies include the following.
1. Garlic
According to research in the journal Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, garlic supplements can have a significant effect in lowering blood pressure in people with a history of hypertension.
In fact, the effectiveness of garlic extract is equal to that of the blood-lowering medication atenolol.
Therefore, this natural ingredient can be consumed as an herbal remedy to help treat strokes. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a contributing factor to strokes.
Furthermore, garlic is known to prevent narrowing and blockage of blood vessels. It can even break down plaque in the arteries.
Therefore, garlic is not only useful for treating but also preventing strokes.
Garlic doesn't have to be taken in supplement form to treat strokes. You can also incorporate garlic into your daily diet.
If you want to take garlic supplements, be sure to discuss this with your doctor, including the appropriate dosage for you.
2. Ginseng
Besides garlic, you can also use ginseng as an herbal remedy for stroke. Yes, ginseng is a natural ingredient with many health benefits, one of which is aiding stroke recovery.
A study published in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience states that ginseng is considered quite effective in treating various types of brain and nerve health problems, one of which is stroke.
The use of ginseng can provide a protective effect on the brain and nerves, focusing on maintaining their function.
However, as with the use of garlic supplements, it's best to consult a doctor before starting to use ginseng to aid post-stroke recovery.
Ginseng itself comes in various varieties, but the one typically used to treat this disease is the peeled and dried form, called Panax Ginseng.
3. Turmeric
This herbal remedy for stroke can also be easily found anywhere.
One of the substances contained in turmeric, curcumin, is a natural polyphenol that has been used for hundreds of years in traditional medicine to control inflammation.
Typically, turmeric is used for stroke patients who cannot undergo clot-dissolving therapy but are experiencing brain inflammation.
In fact, curcumin, once considered an alternative medicine, has now become a common treatment for cancer and various other diseases related to inflammation, including diabetes and wound healing.
Furthermore, turmeric can help lower high cholesterol levels. Therefore, it can prevent plaque buildup in blood vessels that can potentially cause blockages.
4. Celery
According to the Cleveland Clinic, celery contains compounds called phthalates, which can help relax the muscles in blood vessel walls and improve blood flow.
This can help lower blood pressure in people with a history of high blood pressure.
High blood pressure can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
To use it as an herbal remedy, you can consume fresh celery in salads, juices, or soups.
Before using this natural stroke remedy, it's best to consult a doctor first.
5. Green Tea
Green tea is often touted as a beneficial herbal remedy for various health conditions, including stroke.
This natural stroke remedy is rich in antioxidants, such as catechins, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidation in the body.
This may be beneficial in protecting cells from further damage after a stroke.
In fact, according to the American Heart Association, stroke survivors who consume green tea daily can reduce their risk of death from stroke and heart attack by up to 62%.
6. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is a well-known herbal remedy in traditional Indian medicine.
This herbal remedy is believed to be effective in treating stroke due to its anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation, a contributing factor to brain damage caused by stroke.
Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Neural Regeneration Research found that Ashwagandha can help improve cognitive function and memory, which may be useful in post-stroke rehabilitation.
Although Ashwagandha shows potential benefits, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it as part of stroke treatment.
Alternative treatments for stroke:
In addition to using natural remedies, you can also try alternative treatments to treat stroke. Some of these include the following.
1. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an alternative medicine originating from China and performed by inserting thin needles into the skin.
In addition to the use of herbal remedies, this treatment is also believed to aid the stroke recovery process.
This alternative treatment is believed to relieve pain, weakened physical function, decreased quality of life, and cognitive function in patients who have recently experienced a stroke.
In fact, this alternative treatment has been frequently used as part of stroke rehabilitation in China for thousands of years.
Furthermore, this treatment can help directly improve nervous system function.
This method is also considered highly effective in treating ischemic stroke because it promotes the growth and formation of tissue found in the core of the nervous system.
This can help regulate blood flow in the ischemic area and improve memory in post-stroke patients.
In addition to herbal remedies for stroke, this type of exercise is also considered an alternative treatment method for stroke.
If a stroke patient experiences balance and coordination problems, regular yoga practice can improve these issues.
A study in the American Journal of Recreational Therapy found that after eight weeks of yoga, patients experienced improved emotional management, increased stability, and a wider range of motion.
Furthermore, yoga can also help stroke patients become more independent in performing their daily activities while reducing the risk of falls in the future.
3. Massage therapy
This therapy can also be an alternative treatment for stroke.
This alternative treatment helps the body's tissues improve the health and well-being of stroke patients.
Thai massage, a type of Thai massage therapy, and the use of herbal remedies can improve patient function, mood, and sleep patterns.
This therapy can even help reduce pain experienced by stroke survivors.
4. Tai chi
Tai chi is also believed to aid the recovery process for stroke patients. This treatment involves slowly performing various movements, then stretching the muscles while taking deep breaths.
According to an article published in the Mayo Clinic, during this practice, the body and mind work together to create coordinated movements, focusing on posture with each change of movement.
Tai chi can also help stroke patients improve their balance.
Furthermore, tai chi is believed to reduce the risk of falls in stroke and Parkinson's disease patients.
Therefore, there's no harm in trying relaxation activities for you or a loved one who has experienced a stroke. This can help with recovery from the disease.
Conclusion
- Natural treatments are often chosen by some as an alternative to support stroke recovery.
- Some natural ingredients believed to be effective as herbal remedies for stroke include garlic, ginseng, turmeric, celery, green tea, and ashwagandha.
- Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, massage therapy, and tai chi can also help the stroke recovery process more comprehensively.