Herbal extract for                 heart failure

In a review of 14 studies, researchers have found that the herbal supplement hawthorn extract is effective in treating symptoms of chronic heart failure.

In most of the studies, which were randomised and placebo-controlled, extract from hawthorn leaves, fruits and flowers was used as an adjunct to conventional treatment. The paper was published Jan. 23 in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. None of the trials reported data on mortality, so there was no evidence that the herb extends life. But it worked significantly better than placebos in improving exercise endurance and the strength of heart muscle contractions.

Most studies reported mild or no side effects, and the authors conclude that the extract, when used with conventional symptomatic treatment, is beneficial.

Science Times