More and more people are looking for ways to lower cholesterol naturally as a result of the controversy surrounding statin medications. Although these drugs can be effective, the potential side effects, some of which can be quite serious, are difficult to ignore.

The problem with these medications is that in reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver, and the amount absorbed into the bloodstream in the case of a few of these drugs, they can cause liver damage, muscle breakdown and other serious complications. They also decrease the body's supply of CoQ10, an important enzyme which is essential for heart health.

Given this information, you can see how naturally lowering cholesterol has become a more appealing option. Fortunately, there are safe, effective alternative ways to not only lower the bad LDL levels, but also raise HDL and reduce triglycerides (fats), without the need for controversial pharmaceuticals.

So how do you lower cholesterol naturally? You can start with changing your diet and staying away from cholesterol-laden foods. But it's important to realize that only about 20% of your body's total cholesterol comes from your diet. The other 80% is manufactured by your liver. As such, the greatest effect on your cholesterol levels will happen internally, and there are natural supplements that can help.

Let's take a look at some of the herbal extracts, vitamins and supplements that can assist in lowering cholesterol naturally:

Guggulipid is an herbal extract that has been shown to be as effective as some statins in reducing LDL cholesterol. It can also help burn fat. Green tea extract can reduce LDL in bloodstream as well, and help prevent the constriction of blood vessels. Turmeric, or curcumin, improves blood flow and can help lower cholesterol naturally. Ginger, a staple in Asian cuisine, can thin the blood and lower blood pressure in addition to reducing LDL levels.

In addition to medicinal herbs, there are several supplements the can be effective in naturally lowering cholesterol. Policosanol is a powerful extract of sugar cane that has been shown in many clinical studies to boost HDL levels and lower LDL. Chromium polyniconate is helpful in reducing LDL and fat buildups. Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, has been shown to be effective as well. Omega 3 fatty acids, especially those found in cold water fish such as salmon, have numerous cardiovascular benefits and should be a part of any heart healthy regimen.

Whether or not you have hypercholesterolemia, you can lower cholesterol naturally by eating right, exercising regularly and incorporating some or all of the nutrients we discuss above. Some of the supplements can be found in stand-alone formulas. Others can be found along with other nutrients in more comprehensive varieties, which have been shown to be more effective as the nutrients can work together in lowering cholesterol naturally.

In some cases, you might need statin medications to get your hypercholesterolemia under control. Natural means might not be effective enough. As such, before you decide make sure you consult your physician first. He or she will be able to decide if naturally lowering cholesterol is right for you.

David Bloom is a health enthusiast and contributor to many fitness sites. He is the author of Heart Health and Lowering Cholesterol , a section of Herbal Supplements Guide dedicated to natural ways to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.