Natural ACE Inhibitors: 5 Remedies Suggested by Holistic Healers

Many people with congestive heart failure, migraines, and other ailments turn to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors to treat their conditions. Holistic healers suggest several natural substances with ACE inhibiting characteristics.

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ACE inhibitors — including benazepril, captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, and others — prevent an enzyme in the body from producing a substance that narrows blood vessels and can raise blood pressure, according to the Mayo Clinic.

These drugs can carry side effects, including fatigue, dizziness, headaches, fainting, and liver and kidney damage.

Some natural alternatives to ACE inhibitors include hawthorn berries, garlic, calcium, and fish oil, according to Dr. Stephen Sinatra, a cardiologist with an integrative approach to treating heart disease.

Dr. Ray Sahelian, a physician and medical writer who regularly discusses the benefits and risks of natural supplements, also lists hawthorn as a natural ACE inhibitor. He also notes the benefits of fish oils, folic acid, taurine, and other natural supplements in treating congestive heart failure.

Green tea and rooibos tea have been found to have ACE inhibiting effects, according to HolisticPrimaryCare.net.

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Dr. Andrew Weil, director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, suggests those with congestive heart failure try the antioxidant coenzyme Q10, the amino acid L-carnitine and hawthorn.

While many natural supplements show promise as ACE inhibitors, it is wise to consult a physician before reaching for herbal supplements. Herbs and foods can interact with drugs and cause serious problems, according to Holistic-Online.com.

For example, taking hawthorn along with the common heart drug Lanoxin can lower the heart rate too much and cause heart failure, the website said. Also, patients taking diabetes medication or anticoagulant drugs should use caution with garlic capsules, which when combined can cause a dangerous decrease in blood sugars and other problems.

This article is for information only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific health and medical needs.

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