Cardiotonic — herbalism term · PlantSage glossary
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Cardiotonic defined
— Strengthens heart muscle and function.
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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.
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Example plants
Classic species in this category from the PlantSage archive.
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See also
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