6 traditional drinks that can help improve heart health and how to make them

A healthy heart is a sign of a healthy body too. It is one of the most critical organs that plays key roles in keeping the body functioning. From pumping blood rich in oxygen and nutrients to every organ and tissue to keeping the body running, it plays many roles and hence, maintaining a healthy heart is a necessity. A strong, well-functioning heart ensures optimal circulation, regulates blood pressure, and supports overall energy and vitality. And all this is possible, when you feed the body with healthy foods and drinks and also be active with exercise, stress management, and avoid smoking and drinking. Here are six traditional drinks that can help improve heart health and how one can make them at home.

Why it helps: Cinnamon may support healthy cholesterol levels and improve circulation. It is said that a cup of cinnamon tea daily may support healthy blood vessels and reduce heart disease risk. As per a study, cinnamon supplementation demonstrates significant benefits in improving cardiovascular risk factors. Cinnamon is packed with polyphenols and helps fight oxidative stress and supports overall immunity. It is said to help protect the body from chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. And it also reduces inflammation, supporting overall health and well-being.
How to make: Boil 1 cup water with ½ tsp cinnamon powder or 1 small stick.Simmer for 5 minutes, strain, and drink warm. One can add a few drops of honey, once the tea is lukewarm.

Why it helps: It is Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, this drink helps reduce inflammation and supports blood vessel health. A study titled The effect of lemon inhalation aromatherapy on blood pressure, electrocardiogram changes, and anxiety in acute myocardial infarction patients: A clinical, multi-centered, assessor-blinded trial design states that lemon inhalation aromatherapy helps reduce anxiety and regulate heart rate in the acute myocardial infarction patients.

How to make: Warm 1 cup water and add 1 tbsp lemon juice along with 1 tsp honey. Drink first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

Why it helps: Amla is rich in vitamin C and may help lower LDL levels while improving overall heart function. As per a study titled A systematic review on the cardiovascular pharmacology of Emblica officinalis Gaertn., amla has traditionally been considered as a cardioactive medication and has demonstrated remarkable cardiovascular effects in the pharmacological literature. Clinical trials indicate that amla supplementation (often as 500 mg capsules or aqueous extracts) significantly improves lipid profiles by reducing total cholesterol as well.​
How to make: Blend 1 amla (deseeded) with ½ cup water, strain and drink fresh with a pinch of black salt.

Why it helps: Turmeric reduces inflammation and supports blood vessel health. As per a study titled Effects of Turmeric Concentrate on Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress in Healthy Volunteers; an Exploratory Study, turmeric, via its active compound curcumin, supports heart health by reducing blood pressure, improving arterial compliance, and mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation.
How to make: Heat 1 cup milk of choice, add ½ tsp turmeric, along with a pinch of black pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes and sip warm.

Why it helps: Hibiscus may help naturally lower blood pressure and support cardiac health. A study titled A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure and cardiometabolic markers states that regular consumption of hibiscus could confer reduced cardiovascular disease risk.
How to make: Boil 1 cup water, add 1–2 dried hibiscus flowers and steep for 5 minutes, strain, and drink. Drink it warm and one can add honey to taste.

Why it helps: Garlic may improve HDL levels and support healthy blood pressure. This herb is known for its blood-thinning properties, which helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol, supporting overall cardiovascular health. Garlic contains bioactive compounds like allicin that exert multiple protective effects, including lowering blood pressure, reducing plasma lipids, inhibiting platelet aggregation, and combating oxidative stress, which are key factors in cardiovascular disease. It is mentioned in the study titled Effect of garlic on cardiovascular disorders: a review, the leading Indian ancient medical text, Charaka-Samhita recommended garlic for the treatment of heart disease and arthritis for over many centuries. In another ancient Indian medical textbook, Bower Manuscript (300 AD), garlic was used for fatigue, parasitic disease, digestive disorder and leprosy.


How to make: Warm 1 cup water and add 1 crushed raw garlic clove along with 1 tsp honey. Drink warm for maximum benefits.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is meant for general knowledge only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new routine.