High blood pressure is a condition in which the force exerted by blood against the vessel walls is greater than normal. A normal blood pressure, states the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, is equal to or lower than 120/80 mm Hg. All-natural medicines may help reduce your elevated blood pressure, although you should always consult your primary care provider before using natural treatments for this common health condition.
About High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is commonly called the silent killer because most people are unaware they have this condition until a major complication occurs. High blood pressure rarely causes warning signs or symptoms, and the only way to determine that you have it is to have your blood pressure checked by a qualified healthcare professional on a regular basis. Appropriate treatment interventions can reduce your likelihood of complications such as organ damage.
Natural Hypertension Medicines
Natural hypertension medicines include both herbal and nonherbal supplements. According to naturopathic physician Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," the following all-natural substances may be helpful in lowering your blood pressure: vitamins C and E, magnesium, garlic, flaxseed oil and omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10 and hawthorn extract. Linden, olive leaf and rauwolfia may also be helpful. Further scientific studies may be helpful in validating the efficacy of these supplements.
Olive Leaf
Olive leaf may be one of the most commonly used all-natural supplements for lowering blood pressure. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that olive leaf may help lower your blood pressure, treat various types of infection and reduce fatigue. Olive leaves contain numerous important active ingredients, including mannitol, quercetin and tannins. Olive leaf may also lower your blood cholesterol levels and regulate your heartbeat.
Additional Information
High blood pressure is a chronic condition that should always be managed by a licensed healthcare practitioner. A healthcare professional can counsel you on the possible complications associated with this condition and make helpful and individualized treatment recommendations for you. All-natural blood pressure medications should always be used with considerable caution, as some natural substances can cause unexpected side effects, interact with medications or trigger allergic responses in some individuals. Ask your doctor if natural medicines are right for you.
References
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: What is High Blood Pressure?
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: High Blood Pressure
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., N.D.; 2002
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
