High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is when the force of blood against your arterial walls is strong enough to cause potentially hazardous health complications, such as heart disease, according to MayoClinic.com. High blood pressure does not have any symptoms; therefore, it is extremely important to have regular checkups to prevent any blood pressure-related complications. You can also supplement your diet with herbs to lower your blood pressure, but always check with your doctor first before taking supplements.
Cinnamon
Since high blood pressure is usually the result of a high-sodium diet, replacing salty foods with flavorful alternatives can help to effectively reduce the pressure. Cinnamon, for example, is strong, slightly sulphureous and quite aromatic. Cinnamon is naturally antibacterial and antifungal, but more important it helps to reduce high blood pressure, according to Victoria Zak in the book "The Magic Teaspoon." It is especially useful to diabetics and borderline diabetics who have an increased risk of high blood pressure, the author notes. It also helps to burn fat and stimulate the circulatory system. Check with your doctor to ensure that cinnamon would be suitable for your condition.
Hawthorn
According to the book "Prevention's Outsmart High Blood Pressure," hawthorn is the most commonly recommended herb for hypertension. Although it is a powerful combatant of this condition, it is gentle enough for everyday use. Hawthorn contains vitexin, which is a natural plant nutrient that improves cardiovascular health, the book notes. Taking 500 mg of hawthorn may be as effective as conventional blood pressure medications without the undesirable side effects. Get your doctor's OK before using hawthorn.
Lime Blossom
The dried flowers of the lime blossom contain farnesol, mucilage, flavonoids, hesperidin, coumarin fraxoside and vanillin, according to David Hoffman in the book "The Herbal Handbook." These components help to reduce high blood pressure often associated with arteriosclerosis and nervous tension. This herb has a long tradition of use in the treatment of high blood pressure and is usually used in combination with mistletoe, hops and elder flower. As always, talk to your doctor before self-treating with supplements.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Hypertension
- "The Magic Teaspoon"; Victoria Zak; 2006
- "Prevention's Outsmart High Blood Pressure"; Prevention Health Books; 2003
- "The Herbal Handbook"; David Hoffmann; 2008
