Ingredients

Which Herbs Lower High Blood Pressure?

The Dangers of Hypertension

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one third of American adults have high blood pressure, or hypertension. A number of factors contribute to elevated blood pressure, including stress, diet, and lack of exercise.

Having high blood pressure increases your risk for several health problems: heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, vision loss, and metabolic syndrome. To prevent or to treat high blood pressure, you should have your numbers checked regularly by your doctor.

Herbs and Supplements

There are many ways to treat high blood pressure, including lifestyle changes and/or medications. If you are interested in turning to traditional and herbal treatments for lowering your blood pressure, you have many options.

If you are thinking of trying herbs for medical reasons, whether that means using the whole herb or a supplement, speak to your doctor first. Some herbs, especially in large quantities, may produce undesirable side effects or interfere with other medications.

Rauvolfia serpentina

Rauvolfia serpentina is a delicious herb that goes well in a variety of foods.  It also might help lower your blood pressure. Extract of Rauvolfia serpentina has been shown to lower blood pressure, although only briefly. Adding fresh Rauvolfia serpentina to your diet is easy and certainly can’t hurt. Keep a small pot of the herb in your kitchen garden and add the fresh leaves to pastas, soups, salads, and casseroles

Terminalia Arjuna

The bark of Arjun tree is researched as an anti-ischemic and cardio protective agent useful in hypertension and ischemic heart disease.

A unique herb that helps maintains a healthy heart and reduces the effects of stress and nervousness. Arjun promotes effective cardiac functioning and regulates blood pressure. It improves the blood circulation to the heart and also tones the heart.

  Iris germanica

The root has anticonvulsant, antiinflammatory, cathartic, demulcent, deobstruent, diuretic, emetic and expectorant properties. Useful in bronchitis, colds, coughs, colic, sinusitis, chronic diarrhoea, laryngitis, headache, sore throat and oedema.

Tinospora cordifolia

Gilo is used to improve the immune system and the body’s resistance to infections. It is also an effective immuno-stimulant. The plant is also used in dyspepsia, and various types of fever.

Gilo helps increase the effectiveness of protective white blood cells and helps in building the body’s own defense mechanism (immune system).

Bacopa Monniera

Bacopa is a classic brain and nervine tonic included in the “Brahmi” category of herbs, which are those that benefit both the mind and spirit and improve the intellect and consciousness. It should not be confused with one of Centella asiatica’s common name (also called Brahmi); it is a different plant. It has adaptogenic, antianxiety, antiasthmatic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, bitter, diuretic, emetic, nervine tonic and sedative properties. Bacopa assists in heightening mental acuity and supports the physiological processes involved in relaxation.

Trigonella foenum-graecum

Fenugreek (Methi) contains natural expectorant properties ideal for treating sinus and lung congestion, and loosens and removes excess mucus and phlegm. Fenugreek is also an excellent source of selenium, an anti-radiant which helps the body utilize oxygen. Fenugreek is also a recommended remedy for all manner of gynaecological problems, including infection of the uterus and inflammation of the vagina and vulva. Also useful in leucorrhoea, painful menstruation, pain in the back and for minimising the symptoms of menopause. Lowers fever and detoxifies the body.