Blood pressure reflects how hard your heart must work to force blood through your vessels. Although high blood pressure (hypertension) may not produce physical symptoms, the Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine says it increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. Conventional drugs to lower high blood pressure are available, but you may also treat the problem with natural remedies. Consult your doctor before starting any natural treatment plan to bring down high blood pressure. Some herbs and supplements may interfere with medications you're currently taking.
Diet Modifications
Your physician may first recommend reducing sodium in your diet. Family Doctor.org suggests not adding salt to your meals and reading food labels in the grocery store. People diagnosed with high blood pressure should limit their sodium intake to 1,500mg per day. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommends a low-fat diet as the healthiest way to lose extra pounds. Choose lean cuts of meat or poultry and prepare them by baking or grilling, instead of frying. Avoid sweets and sugary sodas but include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Losing weight may lower your blood pressure if you're overweight.
Quit smoking and limit alcoholic drinks to two per day. Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, elevating blood pressure, the AAFP says.
Exercise
A regular exercise program may help you control your blood pressure. However, consult your doctor before starting a weight-lifting program, which can temporarily cause blood pressure to rise. "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies" suggests starting an aerobic exercise program, such as a brisk daily walk, swimming or cycling instead of lifting heavy weights.
Herbs and Supplements
Natural diuretics may assist your kidneys in eliminating sodium from your tissues and blood, reducing swelling and lowering your blood pressure. Add a potassium supplement to your daily routine as a mild diuretic. Herbs that may have a diuretic effect include corn silk, dandelion, horseradish, kava, mistletoe, parsley, plantain, saw palmetto, uva ursi, watercress, white willow, yarrow and burdock. Because herbs have medicinal properties, a certified herbalist or a doctor of naturopathy should evaluate your needs and recommend a dosage.
Relaxation
When you're stressed, your blood pressure rises. If you're easily agitated, take steps to relax. Visualize a beautiful soothing landscape, take deep breaths and focus on something you appreciate. Train yourself to respond to events without becoming upset. Learn meditation or yoga. Herbal teas that may help you relax include kava, chamomile and valerian.
References
- Family Doctor.org: High Blood Pressure: Things You Can Do to Help Lower Yours
- AAFP: High Blood Pressure
- Mother Nature.com: Excerpt from The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
