Herbs for High Blood Pressure and Hyper-Tension Problems
Garlic
In a meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials of garlic supplements, three trials showed a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure and four in diastolic blood pressure. Researchers concluded that garlic powder supplement may be of clinical use in patients with mild high blood pressure. Research first of it's effects on any medication you take.
Hawthorn
The herb hawthorn is often used by traditional herbal practitioners for high blood pressure. In a randomized controlled trial conducted by researchers in Reading, UK, 79 patients with type 2 diabetes were randomized to receive either 1200 mg of hawthorn extract a day or placebo for 16 weeks. Medication for high blood pressure was used by 71 percent of the patients.
At the end of the 16 weeks, patients taking the hawthorn supplement had a significant reduction in mean diastolic blood pressure (2.6 mm Hg). No herb-drug interactions were reported.
Fish Oil
Preliminary studies suggest that fish oil may have a modest effect on high blood pressure.
Cinnamon Cinnamon not only prevents heart disease, it can also prevent diabetes. The Center for Applied Health Sciences in Ohio conducted a study of 22 subjects, half of which were given a 250mg of water soluble cinnamon daily while the other half were given placebo. It was discovered that those who drank cinnamon had a 13 to 23 percent increase in antioxidants connected with lowering blood sugar levels.
Olives -This herb is a significant part of the Mediterranean diet, recognized to be one of the healthiest in the world. Oil made from olives has been found to reduce blood pressure. In a study conducted on the importance of olive oil, Dr. L. Aldo Ferrara, Associate Professor at the Frederico II University of Naples in Italy discovered that the daily use of 40 grams of olive oil reduced the dosage of blood pressure medication in hypertensive patients by about 50 percent. Polyphenols in extra-virgin olive oil was credited for the significant reduction of blood pressure.
Oregano This herb contains the compound carvacrol which has been proven to be effective against blood pressure. In a study conducted on animal subjects, by researchers from Eskisehir Osmangazi University in Turkey, carvacrol was found to reduce heart rate, mean arterial pressure as well as the systolic and diastolic blood pressures.
Ginkgo Biloba from the large tree indigenous to the mountains of China, gingko biloba improves blood circulation and dilates arteries, reducing blood pressure. Gingko also aids in improving memory and mental alertness due to increased blood flow to the brain.
Ginger Root commonly used in Asian cooking, ginger acts to improve blood circulation and relaxes muscles surrounding blood vessels. Ginger is also a powerful digestive herb that helps alleviate uneasiness and nausea
Maitake from the Chinese mushroom, maitake extract acts to decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Maitake also lowers blood cholesterol levels.
Cardamom In one study published in the Indian Journal of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 20 subjects newly diagnosed with primary hypertension were administered 3 g of cardamom powder. After the end of the 3 months, all the subjects experienced feelings of well-being without any side effects. Moreover, the study was able to demonstrate that blood pressure was effectively reduced. It also improved antioxidant status while breaking down blood clots without significantly altering blood lipids and fibrinogen levels.
Turmeric a powerful East-Indian herb used in curry dishes, turmeric extract contains curcumin which is a strong anti-inflammatory. Curcumin helps lower cholesterol and prevents clot formation. Its antioxidant ability improves blood flow and strengthens blood vessels. Turmeric also aids in liver metabolism.
Massage Therapy/Yoga/Tai-Chi/Meditation has also it's effect on Blood Pressure, Hyper-Tension and stress.