To make the best use of time you are willing to spend checking out the wide variety of supplements available here is a brief look at five supplements covering a variety of uses and benefits. These all have one thing on common; they begin with the letter “H.”
Hawthorn extract is derived from the hawthorn shrub, whose berries, leaves, and flowers have long been harvested and used for medicinal purposes. Hawthorn is recognized for its antioxidant properties as well as its potential to support coronary artery flow and improve circulation. A number of studies have examined hawthorn’s ability to help individuals who’ve experienced heart failure. They’ve shown that regular supplementation with hawthorn correlated with improvement in the symptoms of heart failure after its occurrence. This includes reductions in heart palpitations, fatigue, and breathing difficulty.
Horny goat weed is an herb with a history of traditional use in China. It is used as a colloquial remedy for men hoping to improve their sexual health, hence its ostentatious name. Evidence suggests that epimedium, the active ingredient in horny goat weed, could improve blood flow and sexual functioning in men with erectile dysfunction.
Horse chestnut extract, scientifically known as Aesculus hippocastanum, is a seed extract which is known for its benefits to the venous system. The compounds in horse chestnut extract have been shown to improve blood vessel tone and work as an effective short-term treatment for chronic venous insufficiency.
Huperzine A is a natural chemical extracted from Chinese club moss. It is recognized for its potential nootropic effects, meaning that it could support memory. Studies have shown a correlation between huperzine A and improvements in daily occupational tasks in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Other studies show that huperzine A could improve brain function in those with vascular dementia.
Hyaluronic acid is a substance produced naturally in the human body, found in the eyes, joints, and skin. It is also available as a supplement, derived from rooster combs. Supplementing with hyaluronic acid can improve skin flexibility and elasticity. It could also help relieve dry eyes, and improve joint health in cases of arthritis and soft tissue joint injuries. Because hyaluronic acid is present in the skin, supplementing with it could also improve wound healing.
Each of the “H” supplements discussed above could help you in different ways. Consider how these supplements can benefit you, in the context of other healthy nutrition and lifestyle choices. Because some supplements can interact with prescription medications, we recommend talking to your healthcare provider before taking any of these supplements for the first time, especially if you are considering using them for the long term.