High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often caused by hormonal changes, stress, too much sodium in the body or obesity, all of which contribute to increased adrenaline to the bloodstream. When adrenaline levels increase, the blood pumps more forcibly into the larger arteries, causing the smaller blood vessels or capillaries to narrow. Stress is placed on the heart as it tries harder to circulate blood throughout the system, which increases the chances of stroke, heart damage and kidney damage. Some natural herbal remedies can help bring blood pressure down and often back to normal, rarely causing side effects when used correctly and under medical supervision.
Hawthorn
Also known by its Latin species names Crataegus oxycantha and Crataegus monogyna, hawthorn's active ingredients include high antioxidant flavonoids, crataegus acids and oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs). These elements help expand the coronary blood vessels to enhance blood flow and lower blood pressure. Hawthorn is a cardiotonic, which means that it helps to strengthen the heart muscle, assisting in its necessary contractions. In addition, the herb may prevent cholesterol from clinging to arterial walls. Generally, the berries and flowers are used to treat the heart, as they contain the most medicinal ingredients. According to the Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, studies have shown that patients with heart failure may benefit from the regulated use of hawthorn.
Ginkgo Biloba
One of oldest living tree species, Ginkgo biloba has been used as an herbal remedy in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It is one of the top herbals prescribed in Germany and France and is one of the best-selling herbs in both Europe and the United States. Used to increase blood circulation, Ginkgo biloba helps to dilate blood vessels and reduce the stickiness of blood platelets. Improving the flow of blood, it also protects the heart muscle as it lowers blood pressure. Because of its high antioxidant qualities, it also is an excellent free-radical scavenger, assisting in removing elements that can cause heart disease and other physiological problems.
Ginger Root
Ginger root, also called Zingiber officinale by its Latin species name, is used to improve blood circulation while safely lowering blood pressure. When used correctly, ginger root may relax the muscles around blood vessels, which helps to prevent platelet aggregation or stickiness while also diminishing blood lipids or fats. Ginger root helps make the capillaries more permeable and keep the blood thin enough so that it can move easily through the blood vessels. Ginger root can be used as a spice or made into a delicious tea to experience its healing benefits.
Garlic
Garlic, or Allium sativum, contains sulfides, which are known to help bring down blood pressure. Because it is an antispasmodic, garlic helps reduce the pressure that can build up in the arteries due to stress or other destructive catalysts. With its rapid action, garlic also helps to reduce blood lipids, helping clear arteries and increase the ability of blood to flow in an unrestricted fashion throughout the body. Garlic is known as one of the best natural antidotes to high blood pressure and is best eaten raw, as cooked garlic loses much of its medicinal effect. It is also available as a supplement in capsule form, which, for many people, is an easier way to ingest the strong-tasting herb.
Rauwolfia
Rauwolfia, or Rauwolfia serpentina, is a powerful botanical that, according to the Mayo Clinic, belongs in the category of antihypertensives, or those medicinals used to lower tension and pressure. Rauwolfia contains alkaloids that help modulate nerve impulses along neural pathways. This tempering effect creates a positive action on the blood vessels and heart to lower blood pressure. The herb can help reduce heart palpitations and remove cholesterol buildup in the arteries. As with all blood pressure remedies, it is essential to discuss the use of Rauwolfia with your health care practitioner before you add it to your supplement regimen.
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