Inula Racemosa Lowers Cholesterol and Improves Arteries

In traditional Ayurvedic medicine Inula racemosa is used for chest pain, as well as for its support of blood sugar metabolism and weight loss.  A new animal study helps to confirm these traditional uses, showing that Inula can offset the metabolic stress of a high fat diet.

Following a 90 day treatment period animals taking Inula¹ while consuming a high fat diet had lower LDL cholesterol Low-density lipoprotein. It is a group of lipids and proteins that allow lipids like cholesterol, triglycerides, and fat soluble nutrients (Vitamin A, D, E , K, Q 10, carotenes) to be transported with the water-based bloodstream. , lower triglycerides, and increased HDL Cholesterol High-density lipoprotein that is one of five lipoproteins that enable cholesterol and triglycerides to be transported within the bloodstream to the liver and to the adrenals, ovaries, or testes for the production of steroid hormones. .  The herb increased antioxidant activity in the liver and heart.  Adverse changes in coronary arteries from the high fat diet were reversed by Inula.

The authors conclude, “The results demonstrate the anti-atherogenic effect of Inula racemosa, thus validating the cardioprotective and anti-obesity claims in traditional medicine.”