Cardiotonic — herbalism term · PlantSage glossary
ISection · 01
Cardiotonic defined
— Strengthens heart muscle and function.
II
The definition
Plants that improve cardiac efficiency — contractility, rhythm, and circulation. Some (digitalis-derived) are pharmacologically potent; others (hawthorn) are gentler trophorestoratives.
Mechanism
Cardiac glycosides increase contractility; flavonoid-rich herbs (hawthorn) improve coronary blood flow and have a positive inotropic effect.
III
Example plants
Classic species in this category from the PlantSage archive.
V
See also
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.