Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, affects about one-third of American adults and two-thirds of adults over the age of 65, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Coined "the silent killer" for its lack of symptoms, hypertension significantly increases the risk for heart disease and stroke. If you suspect you have high blood pressure, always consult your doctor before self-treating with natural remedies. While herbs may provide some benefit, they should only be used under the supervision of a qualified medical professional.
Garlic
Garlic, the common culinary herb, may help lower blood pressure when taken regularly, according to a 2008 review published in BMC Cardiovascular Disorders. The meta-analysis of 11 different clinical studies found that individuals taking garlic preparations experienced a significant decrease in blood pressure levels compared to those taking a placebo over a period of 12 to 23 weeks. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 400 mg of standardized garlic extract two to three times daily for reducing blood pressure.
Hawthorn
Traditionally used as a treatment for heart failure, hawthorn may also help individuals suffering from hypertension. One study, published in the 2006 edition of the British Journal of General Practice, examined the effect of hawthorn on patients with type 2 diabetes. In the study, patients took 1,200 mg hawthorn extract daily or placebo in addition to their prescription medications for 12 weeks. The individuals taking hawthorn extract had lower blood pressure levels than those taking placebo at the end of the study. Though more evidence may be required before doctors can recommend hawthorn for high blood pressure, the herb is generally considered safe for consumption. A safe dosage consists of 160 to 1,800 mg a day for up to 24 weeks, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Achillea wilhelmsii
Achillea wilhelmsii, a medicinal herb in the yarrow family, may help reduce blood pressure levels in individuals with hypertension. A study published in 2000 in Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research found that patients taking 15 to 20 drops Achillea wilhelmsii tincture twice daily for six months experienced a significant decrease in diastolic and systolic blood pressure after two and six months, respectively. The treatment also significantly lowered LDL cholesterol and triglycerides after four months.
Hibiscus
Evidence suggests that Hibiscus sabdariffa, a common ingredient in herbal tea blends, contains beneficial antioxidants and may have anti-hypertensive properties. A study published in 2010 in the Journal of Nutrition examined the herb's effect on hypertensive adults not currently taking prescription medication for the condition. The patients consumed three 240 ml servings of brewed hibiscus tea or placebo daily for six weeks. At the study's end, individuals taking hibiscus tea experienced lower systolic blood pressure compared to placebo.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypertension
- PubMed Central: Effect of Garlic on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- PubMed Central: Hypotensive Effects of Hawthorn for Patients with Diabetes Taking Prescription Drugs: A Randomised Controlled Trial
- PubMed.gov: Antihypertensive and Antihyperlipidemic Effects of Achillea Wilhelmsii
- PubMed.gov: Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. Tea (Tisane) Lowers Blood Pressure in Prehypertensive and Mildly Hypertensive Adults
