Your blood pressure provides helpful information about the state of your cardiovascular system. PubMed Health states that your blood pressure is governed by several factors, including the health of your kidneys and blood vessels, the balance of hormones in your body and the amount of salt and water in your body. Several herbal remedies may help lower your blood pressure, but you should avoid using them until you discuss the health implications of herbal supplementation with your doctor.
Elevated Blood Pressure
Elevated blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke, heart attack, heart failure and kidney failure. A generally accepted optimal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg, although this may vary from one person to another. A blood pressure over 140/90 is considered high. A stressful lifestyle, a history of smoking and a diet loaded with salt are all potential factors associated with high blood pressure.
Herbal Aids
Herbal remedies have been used for many years to help reduce high blood pressure and prevent the long-term health complications associated with this common condition. In his book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," expert herbalist Ed Smith reports that linden, olive leaf, garlic and hawthorn are four of the most potent herbal remedies in lowering blood pressure. Other useful herbal remedies in regulating blood pressure may include rosemary, parsley, suma and cayenne.
An Effective Botanical
One of the most effective botanical medicines, or herbs, for lowering blood pressure is olive leaf. According to nutrition expert and certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," this herbal remedy may help reduce elevated blood pressure and has antioxidant action. Olive leaf is also a broad-spectrum antiviral. This remedy helps dilate the coronary arteries and may reduce the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Olive leaf is considered a general heart tonic.
Additional Information
Although high blood pressure is an increasingly common health problem and can lead to serious health complications, it may often be treated using natural therapies, including herbal remedies. Like other substances you take to treat your ailments, herbs should only be used after you have discussed their likely health ramifications with your doctor. Herbs can cause significant changes in your body and should be treated with the same degree of respect afforded other substances, such as prescription drugs.
References
- PubMed Health: Hypertension
- MedlinePlus: High Blood Pressure
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
