The heart is very important. Damaged heart valves and dilated cardiomyopathy are the two most common causes of heart disease. But no matter the cause, the underlying issue is a degradation of the cardiovascular system’s ability to pump blood effectively. The body reacts to a decrease in cardiac output by increasing heart rate and cardiac contractibility, constricting vessels, and retaining fluids and increasing blood pressure. While these mechanisms are life-saving in the short term, if they become prolonged, they produce undue stress for the heart muscle. Unchecked, conditions that affect the function of the heart may ultimately lead to complete or congestive heart failure.

This blend of herbs has been specifically formulated to provide targeted support for dogs in cardiac distress. The herbs selected work to optimise cardiac input, enhance vascular performance, reduce oedema (fluid retention) and minimise oxidative stress within the body.

Ingredients

Hawthorn Berry: Hawthorn berry helps to improve the general function of the heart and can steady and strengthen a weak or irregular heartbeat, lower blood pressure, and lessen hardening of the arteries. Hawthorn works by enhancing oxygen utilization by the heart muscles; improving blood supply to the heart by dilating the coronary arteries; improving metabolism in the heart, which increases the heart’s force of contraction; helping stabilize cardiac activity, thus eliminating some types of rhythm disturbances; and reducing blood pressure. Hawthorn is the richest natural source of flavanoids

Ginkgo: The most helpful components of Ginkgo are believed to be flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant qualities and terpenoids, which help to aid circulation. Ginkgo enhances blood flow and can help stabilize cellular membranes, improving oxygenation of tissues. These cell-level activities may be directly beneficial to heart tissues.Ginkgo inhibits the platelet aggregation factor which is the mechanism that causes slow-moving “sticky” blood. These actions make Ginkgo the go to herb for any cerebrovascular conditions.

DanShen (Salvia miltiorrhiza): Danshen possesses broad cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protective actions. It thins the blood by preventing platelet and blood clotting. It causes blood vessels to widen, and this can improve circulation.

Ginseng: Ginseng contains strong antioxidant components that help the body recover from stress, fatigue and illness. It also contains anti-inflammatory saponins that can also help regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels. The major active ingredients of ginseng are ginsenosides, which have been shown to have a variety of therapeutic effects, including antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, vasorelaxation. These have beneficial effects on cardiac and vascular diseases through efficacy, including antioxidation, control of vasomotor function, modulation of ion channels and signal transduction, improvement of lipid profiles, adjustment of blood pressure, improvement in cardiac function, and reduction in platelet adhesion.

Gotu Kola: Gotu Kola contains compounds such as triterpenoid saponins which can help reduce swelling, supports blood vessel strength and integrity and improve peripheral blood circulation. It can also serve as a mild diuretic. Gotu Kola is a rejuvenative nervine, ideal for balancing the nervous system, supporting the body’s inherent ability to acclimate to stress.

Dandelion Leaf: Dandelion is a nearly perfect whole food source of vitamins and minerals. It’s easily absorbed by the body. The leaves are rich in Vitamins A, C, K, D and B complex, Zinc, iron, calcium, manganese, phosphorus and a super-rich source of potassium; vitamins which are often deficient in cardiac cases. Dandelion leaves act as a diuretic when your dog’s body is retaining too much fluid which is often found with heart failure. Because dandelion is loaded with potassium it can replace the potassium lost through frequent urination. Dandelion is finally a potent antioxidant, tackling free radicals in the body which cause chronic health problems like heart disease.

Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is a wonderful adaptogen. Adaptogens support the ability of the body to cope with stress and thereby conserve energy. Ashwagandha rejuvenates and tonifies the entire system, especially the endocrine and immune systems. It is a powerful anti-oxidant and has hematopoietic properties (positive effect on blood cells).

Feeding Guidelines

Give orally twice a day. 1 capful equates to 1ml

Dogs Under 10kg: 0.5 – 1ml

10kg to 20kg: 2.0ml

Over 20kg: 2.5ml

Not suitable for pregnant or lactating bitches; or puppies under 12 weeks.

Please discuss with your Vet before administering if your dog is on existing cardiac medication.