Herbs That May Help Lower High Blood Pressure

Ryan Raman MS RD writes:

"High blood pressure, also called hypertension, affects nearly half of all American adults" (and many more world-wide). "It’s the most common preventable risk factor for heart disease. This article looks at the scientific research behind ten herbs and spices that may help lower blood pressure.

Managing high blood pressure
High blood pressure is defined as having at least one of the following:
systolic blood pressure (the top number) over 130 mm Hg
diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) over 80 mm Hg
both systolic and diastolic values above these levels

You can manage blood pressure with medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and calcium channel blockers.

Many dietary and lifestyle changes can also reduce your blood pressure and lower your risk of heart disease. In fact, studies have shown that some herbs and spices may reduce blood pressure levels, so you may want to consider adding these to your diet, too. Make sure to speak with your healthcare provider before using any of the following herbs.

Below are ten herbs that may help lower blood pressure.

Basil

Basil contains compounds, such as eugenol, that may help reduce blood pressure, according to animal studies. However, more human research is needed.

Parsley

Parsley contains a variety of compounds, such as vitamin C and dietary carotenoids, that may help lower blood pressure. However, more human research is needed to confirm these effects.

Celery Seeds

Animal research suggests celery seeds may reduce blood pressure. This herb may be effective thanks to its fibre and action as a natural calcium channel blocker. More studies are needed.

Chinese Cat's Claw
Chinese cat’s claw contains compounds that may act as natural calcium channel blockers and help blood vessels relax, according to animal studies. More human studies are needed.

Bacopa monnieri
Animal research suggests the herb Bacopa monnieri may help blood vessels dilate and relax, lowering blood pressure. However, human research is conflicting and limited.

Garlic

Garlic contains compounds, such as allicin, that have been shown to help relax blood vessels and aid blood flow. Collectively, these factors may help reduce blood pressure.

Thyme

Thyme contains powerful compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, that appear to help relax blood vessels in animal studies. However, researchers need to do more studies in humans.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon appears to help dilate and relax the blood vessels, which may help lower blood pressure.

Ginger

Ginger appears to lower blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker and dilating the blood vessels.

Cardamom
Animal and human research suggest cardamom may help lower blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker and diuretic. Still, more human studies are needed.

The bottom line
High blood pressure is the most common, preventable risk factor for heart disease. It affects nearly half of all American adults" (and many more world-wide).

"The best way to manage high blood pressure is through a combination of the right medications, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and engaging in healthy lifestyle behaviours.

That said, there are several promising herbs and spices you can incorporate into your diet that may help lower your blood pressure.

They include basil, parsley, celery seeds, Chinese cat’s claw, Bacopa monnieri, garlic, thyme, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, to name a few.

Keep in mind that many herbs and spices may interact with common blood thinner medications, and many extracts and supplements discussed above lack sufficient safety research.

For this reason, always consult a healthcare provider about what herbs and spices you’re considering incorporating into your diet, and never discontinue a medication without consulting them first."

The above is just a snippet of Ryan's article which can be read in full with all research links here

Some Other Posts That May Interest You

Natural Ways To Lower Blood Pressure - read it here

Why not take a walk - read it here

Walking Can Be So Good For You - read it here

Are You Aging Gracefully - read it here

Exercise is one of the best things you can do to lower high blood pressure.

You will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter.

All the best Jan