The Cardiovascular System for the Herbalist: “Identifying and understanding acute and chronic illness of the heart and blood vessels”
This 4-week, cardiovascular module is an information-packed introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system, as well as the physiology of disease as it occurs or presents itself through this system.
How can we understand the cardiovascular system from the standpoint of herbal medicine, and what information do we need to know specifically as a clinical herbalist when studying and working with this organ system?
Just as importantly, how can we immediately recognize serious cardiac emergencies that require higher definitive care (i.e. doctor, clinic, hospital, etc.)?
On a clinical level, it is necessary to assess and understand health issues that either originate or manifest themselves through a given organ system. We will learn assessment techniques that help identify heart and vascular illness or inflammation, as well as various approaches to herbal and holistic care.
Aside from addressing symptoms and root causes of cardiovascular disease we will also learn a materia medica (specific herbs) and preparation/administration of these specific herbs in order to most effectively help the body heal itself especially when this is a sound strategy.
Both acute and chronic cardiovascular disease (and trauma) will be addressed in this class, as well as underlying causes.
Topics include:
- Heart sounds and stethoscope use
- Hypertension
- Cholesterol facts and myths
- Inflammation
- Coronary artery disease
- Angina pectoris
- Atherosclerosis & arteriosclerosis
- Acute cardiac emergencies
- Pericardial disease/trauma Infective endocarditis
Specific relationships between nutrition/lifestyle and cardiovascular health will be emphasized as well.
