Cardiovasular system

Question 1

Garlic

Answer 1

Allium sativum
Alliaceae
Bulb

Actions:
Diaphoretic, expectorant, spasmolytic, antiseptic, bacteriostatic, hypotensive, hypolipidaemic, antioxidant, antithrombotic

Indications:
Hyperlipidaemia (support dietary measures)
Prevention of age-related vascular changes & atherosclerosis
Mild hypertension

Contraindications:
Known allergy to garlic
Do not consume large amounts raw or supplements prior to surgery (antithrombotic activity)
May increase antithromotic effect of warfarin
? Not recommended in lactation
GI upset may occur (& bad breath)

Question 2

2. Cloeus

Answer 2

Coleus forskohlii
Labiatae
Root

Actions:
Hypotensive, antiplatelet, bronchospasmolytic, spasmolytic, cardiotonic, aromatic, digestive stimulant

Indications:
Congestive heart disease, hypertension, ischaemic heart disease, thrombosis
Topical for glaucoma
Asthma, psoriasis

Contraindications:
Hypotension
Caution w other meds - can potentialte many (esp hypotensives & antiplatelet drugs) & peptic ulcers

Question 3

3. Hawthorn

Answer 3

Crataegus monogyna
Rosaceae
Leaf, berry

Actions:
Cardioprotective, cardiotonic, antiarrhythmic, antioxidant, hypotensive, peripheral vasodilator
Possible GI effects, palpitations, headache, dizziness, circulatory disturbances, sleeplessness

Indications:
Cardiac insufficiency stages 1&2 of NYHA
Minor angina pectoris, low heart rate variability, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, tachycardia, circulatory support, atherosclerosis, Buerger’s disease

Contraindications:
None known

Question 4

Tienchi ginseng

Answer 4

Panax notoginseng
Arialaceae
Root

Actions:
Antihaemorrhagic, cardioprotective, antiinflammatory, antiarrhythmic, hypocholesterolaemic

Indications:
Haemoptysis & haematuria
Angina pectoris & high cholesterol, haemorrhage, haematemesis, melena, abnormal uterine bleeding
Injury from trauma, esp w haematuria, swelling & bruising

Contraindications:
Pregnancy (TCM)

Question 5

5. Dan shen, red sage, chinese sage

Answer 5

salvia miltorrhiza
Lamiaceae
Root

Actions:
Cardioprotective, hypotensive, anticoagulant, Antiplatelet, fibronlytic
Hepatoprotective, vulnerary, antifibrotic, antibacterial

Indications:
Ischaemic heart disease, hypertension, palpitations, insomnia
Buerger’ disease, acute & chronic liver disease
Pulmonary fibrosis, promotion of healing of fractures, scleroderma, diabetic neuropathy, acne, skin disorders

Contraindications:
Pregnancy, bleeding tendency
Drug interactions: anticoagulants & antiplatelets