7 Herbs For High Blood Pressure
Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common health problem today. However, there are plenty of medications available to treat high blood pressure. Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicines have always used herbs to treat high blood pressure.
In fact, many holistic health practitioners believe that herbs are a safer, more natural way to manage high blood pressure.
I am going to mention seven powerful herbs that can be used to regulate high blood pressure. But always consult your doctor first before taking any herbs for high blood pressure:
1. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic is at the top of my list as it is one of the most widely studied herbs for hypertension.
It contains a compound called allicin, which may help to lower blood pressure by reducing cholesterol levels and widening blood vessels.
It has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which may contribute to high blood pressure.
For instance, An extensive study was conducted with more than 550 people who had hypertension.
The results showed that taking garlic reduced their systolic and diastolic blood pressure averages by 8.3 mm Hg and 5.5 mm Hg, respectively.
This is a clear indication of the effectiveness of garlic in managing high blood pressure.
2. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
In traditional Chinese medicine, thyme is used to treat hypertension.
Research suggests that active compounds in thyme, including thymol and carvacrol, can dilate blood vessels, reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
This can help to lower blood pressure levels significantly.
3. Basil (Ocimum Basilicum)
Basil has a number of health benefits, one of which is its ability to help treat high blood pressure.
It contains eugenol, a natural plant compound that helps to relax the walls of your blood vessels, improve circulation, and reduce blood pressure.
4. Celery (Apium graveolens)
Whether you prefer it raw or cooked, celery is a great natural remedy for high blood pressure.
A compound called phthalide contained in the stalks can relax the walls of your arteries and keep blood pressure in control.
Celery also contains large amounts of magnesium, potassium, and calcium, all of which have been linked to lowering blood pressure.
5. Hawthorn (Crataegus)
Hawthorn has been used for centuries as a medicinal agent.
Studies say it contains powerful antioxidants that protect the heart and improve circulation, which in turn, helps can bring blood pressure down.
It also contains proanthocyanidins, a type of flavonoid that makes the arterial walls more elastic, preventing them from narrowing, which can help reduce high blood pressure.
6. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Parsley might decrease blood pressure.
Because it is high in nitrates, it helps to dilate blood vessels, which can lower hypertension and improve circulation.
In addition, parsley is rich in minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron, and calcium.
These minerals can help regulate blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
7. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat high blood pressure.
Both animal and human research indicate that ginger can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Don’t Forget About Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Now that you know about some herbs that can be used to regulate high blood pressure, it is important to remember that diet and lifestyle changes are equally important.
Reducing sodium intake, increasing physical activity, and eating a healthy diet are all important steps to take in combination with using herbs for managing high blood pressure.
In essence
High blood pressure can be a dangerous condition, but it can be managed with the help of diet and lifestyle changes as well as certain herbs.
Garlic, thyme, basil, celery, hawthorn, parsley, and ginger are all beneficial for reducing high blood pressure.
However, It is also important to remember that these herbs may interact with certain medications. So it is always important to consult your doctor before taking any herbs for high blood pressure.