Hypertension, also known as prolonged elevated blood pressure, is an extremely common health problem among Americans, especially African-Americans. The Cleveland Clinic states that approximately 75 million people in the United States are believed to suffer from this condition. Hypertension rarely causes signs or symptoms, although it can lead to dire health consequences if left untreated. Herbs may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your hypertension, but you should always discuss herb-related topics with your physician beforehand.
Prolonged Elevated BP
Normal or ideal blood pressure is the amount of pressure in your arteries above which damage to your blood vessels may begin to occur. In most cases, an ideal blood pressure is about 120/80 mm Hg, although a blood pressures slightly lower or higher than this number may also be optimal, depending on the individual. Prolonged elevated blood pressure, or BP, may be caused by numerous factors, including chronic alcohol abuse, narrowing of your renal arteries and certain prescription drugs, such as corticosteroids and migraine medication.
Appropriate Herbs
Certain herbs may be appropriate in treating your hypertension, although not all herbs that have historically been used for this condition are backed by scientific research studies. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that herbs that possess diuretic and hypotensive action as well as the ability to dilate your peripheral arteries -- including ginger, linden, ginkgo, hawthorn and Salvia miltiorrhiza -- are among the most appropriate herbs for this condition.
Featured Herb: Dan Shen
Salvia miltiorrhiza, also known as sage root or dan shen, may be a powerful adjunct therapy in the treatment of your hypertension. Dan shen, notes Tilgner, posesses hypotensive and antioxidant action and is considered a heart tonic, or a substance that nourishes and supports your heart function. Dan shen may help reduce your blood platelet aggregation, promote dilation of the arteries sending blood to your heart and is often used in treating angina, or heart-related chest pain.
Disclaimer
Hypertension is best treated in its early stages. If this condition is left untreated, it can lead to serious health consequences, including heart disease, stroke and brain damage. Although prolonged elevated BP may be treated using conservative measures such as herbs, other, more conventional therapies recommended by your family doctor may be necessary to bring your blood pressure under control. Discuss the risks and benefits of herbal medicines with your doctor before using them to treat your hypertension.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Hypertension
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
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