Herbs That Reduce Blood Pressure

According to the American Heart Association, nearly 35 percent of adults in the United States have high blood pressure. Many people are unaware that they have high blood pressure -- there are few noticeable symptoms. But hypertension can be deadly. It is a leading cause of heart disease, heart attacks and stokes. If your blood pressure is above 140/90, you are considered hypertensive. Dietary management, regular blood pressure checks and the addition -- with your doctor's knowledge -- of herbal preparations can bring your levels down to a safer range.

Garlic

• Garlic's heart-healthy benefits are available to anyone who would like to consume one whole, raw clove a day. Not for you? Then consider taking garlic in supplement form. Be sure to find a garlic supplement that is standardized for allicin, the beneficial component of garlic. You will also want a deodorized supplement, which will cut down on garlic breath and may reduce its tendency to cause mild indigestion. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 400 mg two to three times daily. Garlic is safe to take everyday, and for the most blood pressure-lowering benefit, you will need to take it for at least one month.

Hibiscus

• In 2008, research results were reported at the American Heart Association's annual conference suggesting that three daily cups of hibiscus tea lowered blood pressure in pre- and mildly hypertensive adults. Volunteers who drank tea had a 7.2-point drop in their systolic blood pressure. The placebo group saw only a 1.3-point drop. Hibiscus tea is pleasant tasting, and the amount required for effect is low enough to fit into most daily diet routines. Hibiscus teas also contain vitamin C. There are a variety of different brands and formulations.

Hawthorn

• Hawthorn leaves, berries and flowers offer cardiovascular health benefits similar to prescription high blood pressure medications. Memorial Sloan Kettering reports that "hawthorn causes direct dilation of smooth muscle in coronary vessels, thereby lowering their resistance and increasing blood flow." Hawthorne is available in supplement or tincture form. Look for a standardized quantity of vitexin, a flavenoid found in hawthorn. Do not take hawthorn for more than two weeks without medical supervision.

  High blood pressure is a serious condition. Speak to your doctor before changing, stopping or supplementing any high blood pressure medications she may have prescribed.

  Eat a sensible diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables and low in salt. Exercise moderately and monitor your blood pressure regularly.