Congestive heart failure (CHF) occurs when the heart cannot pump out enough blood to meet the needs of the body. Any form of heart disease may lead to CHF, which results in a reduced ability to exercise and in severe cases can impair daily function. CHF is the most common cause of death for people over age 65.

Nutrition
Nutrition and herbal medicines can play an important role in increasing the strength of the heart without also increasing its workload.

Diet: Garlic, ginger, and onions all have a beneficial effect on circulation. Increase fiber (especially water-soluble), fruits, vegetables, and vegetarian sources of protein. Increase potassium and decrease sodium in the diet.

Vitamins and Minerals
 Antioxidants
 Vitamin C

 Selenium
 Coenzyme Q10: antioxidant, increases oxygenation of tissue, including heart muscle
 Essential fatty acids: anti-inflammatory
 Homocystine metabolism: Folic acid (800 mcg per day), B6 (50 mg per day), B12 (400 mg per day), Betaine (200 to 1,000 mg per day)
 Magnesium
 Taurine
 Carnitine

Herbs
 Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha): increases blood vessel integrity.
 Rosemary (Viscum album): increases coronary artery blood flow, used to stimulate digestion and relieve nervous tension
 Motherwort (Leonorus officinalis): regulates heart rhythm
 Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis): potassium-sparing diuretic
 Indian Tobacco (Lobelia inflata) helps reduce spasm, stimulates repiratory function, used in smoking cessation. May be toxic if used above recommended doses.
 Horsetail herb (Equisetum arvense): diuretic

Hawthorn should be included in any treatment. In addition, use a combination of four to six of the above herbs at 1 cup tea three times per day or 30 –60 drops tincture three times per day.