Alternative Methods for High BP

More than 50 million Americans suffer from high blood pressure (also called hypertension). Traditional therapies include powerful drugs such as Lasix or Caduet. Alternative methods may be less expensive and have gentler side effects than widely prescribed pharmaceuticals.

Herbal Remedies

• There have not been extensive or conclusive studies concerning herbal methods of treating high blood pressure. You should talk to your doctor before taking any herbs or medicines not prescribed by a qualified physician, especially if you are already taking medications to control high blood pressure.

  Some common herbal remedies for hypertension include: Rauwolfia serpentine (Indian snakeroot), hawthorn, tetrandrine, and ginseng. Some herbs, including licorice, ephedra, and yohimbe, should be specifically avoided because they cause high blood pressure.

Supplements

• There are several natural supplements that have been successful in lowering high blood pressure. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) works as well as major blood pressure medications but with few, if any, side effects. CoQ10 is available in pill form.

  Omega-3 fatty acids have received much media attention in the last few years because of their potential to reduce mild hypertension. Though the evidence is conflicting on how effective omega-3s are, some patients report success with doses of the supplement. It is available in gel caplet form or as a liquid, and is also found naturally in such foods as fish.

  Amino acids, such as L-arginine and L-taurine, have been evaluated for their effects on high blood pressure. However, tests on these supplements have not been conclusive.

Lifestyle Changes

• In addition to medications, a diet low in saturated fats and sodium (salt) and high in vegetables and complex carbohydrates are key. Relaxation, exercise, and reducing stress have also proved extremely beneficial. Those with high blood pressure have found success with yoga or Tai Chi, an ancient set of movements from China, as well as regular moderate exercise. Acupuncture–the practice of inserting very tiny needles into the skin by a qualified practitioner–has also provided some with relief from high blood pressure.