Most people know about some of the conventional treatments for hypertension, including the reduction of salt in the diet and using blood pressure medications. However, high blood pressure can also be helped through alternative medicine. Taking certain supplements and herbs may be a more natural approach to bringing blood pressure levels closer to the normal readings of 120/80 without the need for prescription medications.
Potassium
Increasing your potassium levels may effectively manage your condition. The Colorado State University (CSU) Extension reports that potassium and sodium work together in controlling blood pressure. Both of these minerals play a role in the body's retention of water, which can affect blood pressure. People who have high blood pressure may reap the benefit of added potassium when eating foods rich in the nutrient, including bananas, raisins, avocados, peanuts and kidney beans.
Garlic
Garlic is perhaps one of the better-known alternative remedies for high blood pressure. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) states that garlic, when eaten raw or taken as a supplement, may be able to stabilize blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels, two conditions that increase a person's risk for heart disease and stroke. People who want to use garlic as a treatment for hypertension should add the supplement only under the supervision of their doctors.
Omega-3
Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that can be beneficial to health in a variety of ways, and may help lower blood pressure in some people, according to the Mayo Clinic. Foods such as salmon and walnuts are rich in omega-3, as are flaxseed and olive oil. People who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids through diet alone may benefit from taking supplements such as fish oil capsules.
Calcium
Calcium intake may also be a non-medicated way to approach hypertension. Both the Mayo Clinic and CSU Extension concur that adding more calcium through your diet can help lower high blood pressure levels. Eating low-fat or part-skim dairy products can effectively increase your calcium stores without adding unwanted fat to your diet.
Relaxation Techniques
Stress and high blood pressure can go hand in hand. Reducing the amount of stress in your life can be an alternative treatment of hypertension if you commit to this new way of living. Taking yoga classes, turning to meditation or just learning to do deep breathing exercises may help lower your blood pressure. All of these relaxation techniques will allow you to focus acutely on your body and breathing patterns, and can help clear your mind of your worries as well.
