Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Normal blood pressure measures 120/80 mm Hg, but if your blood pressure is consistently 140/90 mm Hg, or over, your doctor will likely diagnose hypertension and advise you to make lifestyle changes, such as changing your diet and exercising more. You may also need anti-hypertensive drugs, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or beta blockers. Some herbs may help lower high blood pressure although evidence to prove they work is mixed. Talk to your doctor before taking herbs to treat your condition.
Reishi Mushroom
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that the reishi mushroom may help lower blood pressure, but adds that evidence to support its use is weak. Also known as Ganoderma lucidum, reishi mushroom contains compounds called triterpenes, which according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, are responsible for this herb's possible anti-hypertensive effects. Reishi mushroom may cause side effects including a dry throat, nausea and vomiting. It may also heighten the effects of anti-hypertensive drugs so get medical clearance before using it alongside other medicines you may be taking.
Hibiscus
The results of a study by D.L. McKay and colleagues published in the February 2010 issue of the "Journal of Nutrition," show that hibiscus tea helps lower blood pressure in mildly hypertensive patients. However, an analysis of clinical trial data by H.A. Wahabi et al published in February 2010 in "Phytomedicine," concluded that was not enough reliable evidence to support recommending hibiscus for the treatment of hypertension. RxList notes that this herb is likely safe for most adults but adds that its potential side effects are unknown. Do not use hibiscus if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Garlic
Garlic, an herb commonly used to flavor cooking, may help lower blood pressure slightly. Research by K. Ried and colleagues published in the October 2010 issue of "Maturitas" found that aged garlic more effectively lowered systolic blood pressure than placebo. Garlic may cause side effects including heartburn, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It may also increase the risk of bleeding so do not use it if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking anticoagulant drugs.
Preventative Measures
You can help prevent hypertension by making simple lifestyle changes such as drinking less alcohol, doing more exercise and eating a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables. Reducing your salt intake and ensuring you do not become overweight will also help prevent high blood pressure.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypertension
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Reishi Mushroom
- PubMed.gov: Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Tea (Tisane) Lowers Blood Pressure in Prehypertensive and Mildly Hypertensive Adults
- PubMed.gov: The Effectiveness of Hibiscus sabdariffa in the Treatment of Hypertension: A Systematic Review
- RxList: Hibiscus
- PubMed.gov: Aged Garlic Extract Lowers Blood Pressure in Patients with Treated but Uncontrolled Hypertension: A Randomised Controlled trial
