Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Stroke
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Vinpocetine | 30 to 60 mg per day taken with food |  [2 stars] Vinpocetine injections have been reported to improve some measures of brain function in stroke patients and to reduce some of the brain function loss that typically follows a stroke. |
Folic Acid (High Homocysteine) | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Elevated blood levels of homocysteine have been linked to stroke risk in most studies. Supplementing with folic acid may lower homocysteine levels and reduce stroke risk. |
Magnesium | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Magnesium appears to reduce high blood pressure, which may in turn reduce stroke risk. |
Tocotrienols | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] In one trial, people with atherosclerosis, a condition that may contribute to stroke, who were given a palm oil extract containing tocotrienols saw significant improvement. |
Vitamin B12 (High Homocysteine) | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Elevated blood levels of homocysteine have been linked to stroke risk in most studies. Supplementing with vitamin B12 may lower homocysteine levels and reduce stroke risk. |
Vitamin B6 (High Homocysteine) | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Elevated blood levels of homocysteine have been linked to stroke risk in most studies. Supplementing with vitamin B6 may lower homocysteine levels and reduce stroke risk. |
Vitamin E | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Studies have found that people who eat foods high in antioxidants such vitamin E have less carotid stenosis, a risk factor for stroke. Vitamin E plus aspirin has also been shown to be effective in reducing stroke risk. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.