High blood pressure or hypertension is a rise in pressure of blood in the arteries. If left untreated, high blood pressure can pose serious health risks. Hypertension is a factor in 75 percent of all heart attacks and strokes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Beta-blocker medications such as propranolol--brand name Inderal--and acebutolol or Sectral are often prescribed to treat hypertension. They work by inhibiting the effects of adrenaline and slowing the heart rate. Certain natural remedies may have similar blood pressure-lowering capabilities. Always check with your doctor before using dietary supplements or herbs to treat high blood pressure.
Coenzyme Q10
Conenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a potent antioxidant that may help treat hypertension when taken over months, reports the University of Michigan Health System or UMHS. CoQ10 is produced naturally in the body but tends to decline with age. Consult your doctor before adding CoQ10 to your blood pressure-lowering treatment.
Garlic
Garlic extract may have a modest impact on hypertension while improving heart health. Further research is needed to confirm garlic's effect on blood pressure, according to the National Institutes of Health or NIH. Consult your doctor about taking herbal supplements for hypertension.
Passionflower
Passionflower is an herbal beta blocker, according to High Blood Pressure Med.com. It's sometimes used to treat anxiety and insomnia due to its calming effects, reports the UMMC. Passionflower is believed to contain a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that causes relaxation.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish oil and cod liver oil can help reduce high blood pressure, according to the UMHS. Both oils contain large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Good sources of fish oil and cod liver oil include herring, salmon, mackerel, sardines anchovies and albacore tuna
Low-Cholesterol Diet
A low-cholesterol diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products can help manage high blood pressure, according to the UMHS. It's also important to limit your salt intake to about 1 tsp. per day because high sodium intake contributes to hypertension.
Exercise and Weight Control
Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help lower blood pressure, according to the UMMC. Get at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity such as walking, or swimming most days of the week. People who are overweight are more likely to develop hypertension. Trimming as few as 200 to 300 calories from your daily diet can help lower blood pressure.
