Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood on arterial walls. The body constantly monitors and adjusts blood pressure throughout the day. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when blood pressure is elevated for long periods of time, which can cause arteries to harden and put undue stress on the heart. Lifestyle changes involving diet and exercise are the most important factors in lowering blood pressure. However, many herbal supplements can help lower blood pressure in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle.
Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract contains high concentrations of heart healthy polyphenols, antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress and may lower blood pressure naturally. Grape extract also contains proanthocyanidins, natural substances that may increase blood flow by many different pathways. Some products may also contain the potent anti-aging antioxidant known as resveratrol, which may also benefit heart health. In a study cited by Life extension magazine, grape seed extract in doses of 150 to 300mg lowered the blood pressure of subjects considered prehypertensive.
Pomegranate Extract
Pomegranate extract also helps as a natural way to decrease blood clotting and is a potent antioxidant. Native to Persia, this healthy fruit is now grown the world over, and it contains antioxidants that help blood vessels relax and expand to encourage lower blood pressure. Use 100mg of pomegranate extract a day in pill form. Whole pomegranate fruit is also a healthy and delicious addition to your daily diet.
Hawthorne Berries
In Europe, hawthorne berries and their extracts are commonly used as treatments to strengthen blood vessel walls, lower blood pressure and cholesterol and to treat angina, chest pains, congestive heart failure and atherosclerosis. Hawthorne berry extract contains free radical-scavenging antioxidant substances that may prevent age-related tissue damage from exposure to toxins and environmental pollutants. Hawthorne berry extract capsules are effective in dosages of 240mg, twice a day.
Garlic
Garlic extract has shown promise for decreasing blood pressure. It is recommended that you take 1,200mg a day for an anticoagulant and blood-vessel-widening effect. Consult with your doctor before supplementing with garlic if you are currently taking blood-thinning medication.
Arjuna Bark Extract
The Life Extension Foundation reports that in a three-month study, arjuna bark lowered blood pressure with no adverse effects. Consider adding arjuna bark extract, at 500mg twice a day, especially if you smoke. From the Terminalia arjuna tree, this herb has decreased systolic blood pressure without any adverse effects.
Forskolin
Another impressive herbal remedy is Forskolin, from the herb Coleus forskolii. Studies show increased arterial blood flow with 10mg of Forskolin two to six times daily. As an added benefit, Forskolin may have metabolic benefits that can help with weight management, an important pillar in any lifestyle strategy for lowering blood pressure.
