Hypertension increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. Making healthy lifestyle changes including dietary, exercise and medication are responsible steps in reducing high blood pressure. However, herbal remedies can be an alternative treatment. It's important to consult with a professional health care practitioner before taking herbal supplements to avoid drug interactions or contraindication.
Garlic
Garlic, also called Allium sativum, nectar of the gods or stinking rose, is an herbal spice with medicinal benefits. It is used to treat hypertension, hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream) and atherosclerosis, according to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Garlic contains allicin, a potent antibiotic. Garlic lowers blood pressure by lowering serum lipid (fat) levels, expanding the blood vessels and inhibiting platelet aggregation (blood cells sticking together), according to the Med Term website. Adverse effects include bad breath, headache and fatigue, gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea and sweating.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn berries, leaves and flowers are used to control high blood pressure and cholesterol, and to protect against heart disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Hawthorn contains flavonoids, particularly anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins, according to Dr. James P. Meschino. These compounds help reduce high blood pressure. Though the University of Maryland Medical Center considers it a safe herb, a professional health care provider should be consulted before taking Hawthorn. It is available in capsule, liquid and solid extracts, or in tincture form. Its dried leaves, flowers and berries make a bitter-tasting tea. Side effects, including headache, nausea and rapid heartbeat, are rare.
Passionflower
Passionflower, or Passiflora incarnata, lowers blood pressure by calming the body, relaxing and expanding the blood vessels, lowering the pressure in the blood vessels and improving circulation. Passionflower is generally considered a safe herb, according to Medline Plus. However, there have been reports of allergic reactions, asthma, skin rashes and irritation of the sinuses, as well as vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels on the skin). Other side effects include drowsiness, sedation and mental slowdown. Reaction time and alertness should be observed before driving or handling dangerous machinery when taking passionflower.
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