TCM Treatment Evaluation for Atherosclerosis
The most common treatments focus on dietary and lifestyle changes to reduce cholesterol and other problems that contribute to atherosclerosis. Dietary modifications usually incorporate eating foods that are low in saturated fats, cholesterol, sugar, and animal proteins. Foods high in fiber, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains, are encouraged. By consuming fruits and vegetables, the person also consumes helpful dietary antioxidants, such as carotenoids found in vegetable pigments, and bioflavenoids in fruit pigments. Liberal use of onions and garlic is recommended, as well as eating fish, especially cold-water fish, such as salmon. Smoking, alcohol, and coffee are to be avoided; and exercise is strongly recommended. There are several well-known programs, such as those created by Nathan and Robert Pritikin and Dean Ornish, which are very helpful in setting up and maintaining dietary and lifestyle programs.

Herbal remedies for atherosclerosis include garlic (Allium sativum), ginger (Zingiber officinale), hawthorn (Crataegus oxycantha), (Ginkgo biloba), and Siberian ginseng root (Eleutherococcus senticosus). Gugulipids, or myrrh (Commiphora molmol) is highly regarded for its ability to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Other herbs with this ability include alfalfa (Medicago sativum), turmeric (Curcuma longa), (Panax ginseng), and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum). Atherosclerosis is a complex condition. Therefore, a knowledgeable practitioner of herbal healing should be consulted for recommendations on the right combination of herbs and dosages.

Chelation therapy involves injecting a drug called EDTA and drug taken orally called DMSA, together with nutrients into the bloodstream. It is thought to work by either binding to the calcium in plaque and transporting it for excretion, or by acting as an antioxidant, or by both methods. It has shown some success, but it remains a controversial method.

Several disciplines can offer helpful long-term treatment strategies for those with atherosclerosis. A knowledgeable practitioner should be consulted. Ayurvedic medicine practitioners combine diet, herbal remedies, relaxation, and exercises. A homeopath will prescribe a treatment regimen based on a complete assessment. A traditional Chinese medicine practitioner may prescribe a combination of herbs such as siler (Ledebouriellla divaricata), Platycodon grandiflorum, Polygonum multiflorum, and Bupleurum chinense. Acupuncture and massage may be recommended, particularly for the accompanying circulatory problems. A homeopath will prescribe remedies based on an in-depth interview and evaluation.

Stress is known to worsen blood pressure and atherosclerosis, and hasten the progression of the disease. Therapeutic relaxation techniques are, therefore, helpful adjuncts to treatment. Recommended approaches include yoga, meditation, guided imagery, biofeedback, and counseling. In fact, a 2002 study showed that transcendental meditation, when combined with diet, exercise and antioxidant food supplements, contributed to nearly a 33% reduced long-term risk for heart attack and stroke in some patients.