Blood pressure is defined as the force of blood as it moves through your arteries. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects one-third of American adults, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart attack and heart disease, all of which can result in death. If you have hypertension, talk to your doctor for more information on lowering your blood pressure. Never attempt to self-treat a serious medical condition with herbs or home remedies on your own. While some herbal supplements may help, only use them under the supervision of a qualified medical professional.
Garlic
Garlic extract may help lower blood pressure, according to a 2008 systematic review and meta-analysis published in BMC Cardiovascular Disorders. Researchers reviewed 11 different scientific studies that examined the effect of garlic-only preparations on the blood pressure of hypertensive patients. At the end of the review, researchers concluded that garlic preparations work better than placebos in lowering high blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 400 mg of standardized garlic extract two or three times daily for the best results.
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus sabdariffa, a common ingredient in commercially available herbal teas, may also provide some benefit to sufferers of high blood pressure. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Nutrition examined the effects of hibiscus on pre- and mildly-hypertensive patients who were not currently taking blood pressure medications. After six weeks, the participants experienced lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure after drinking three cups of brewed hibiscus tea daily. No side effects were experienced. To make hibiscus tea, steep 2 tbsp. dried hibiscus in 1 cup boiling water for 15 minutes, strain and drink.
Hawthorn
A common folk remedy for high blood pressure and heart problems, hawthorn contains oligomeric proanthocyanidins and bioflavanoids that nourish the heart tissue and blood vessels. Hawthorn may lower blood pressure by dilating and relaxing artery walls, according to Linda B. White in her book "The Herbal Drugstore." Because hawthorn can take weeks or even months to begin working, it may not be suitable for treating blood pressure levels above 160 over 100. The herb provides the most benefit to individuals in the beginning stages of hypertension. A typical dosage consists of 150 mg to 1,500 mg of powdered standardized extract, but consult your doctor to find a safe dosage for your particular situation.
Achillea Wilhelmsii
Achillea wilhelmsii, a type of yarrow native to Iran, may prove useful in treating individuals with hypertension. A study published in Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research in 2000 analyzed the effect of the herb on patients with high blood pressure. Researchers found that individuals taking 15 to 20 drops of Achillea wilhelmsii tincture twice daily for at least six months experienced a significant decrease in diastolic and systolic blood pressure levels.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypertension
- PubMed.gov: Effect of Garlic on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- PubMed.gov: Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. Tea (Tisane) Lowers Blood Pressure in Prehypertensive and Mildly Hypertensive Adults
- PubMed.gov: Antihypertensive and Antihyperlipidemic Effects of Achillea Wilhelmsii
- "The Herbal Drugstore"; Linda B. White, Steven Foster; 2000
