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Holistic Remedies for Hypertension

Oftentimes, doctors aren't sure what causes hypertension (high blood pressure), but those suffering with it can look to alternative and holistic therapies for help. Adding supplements to your routine, as well as making diet and lifestyle changes, can help you naturally control your high blood pressure.

  1. Supplements to Consider

    • To help lower high blood pressure, consider adding supplements to your diet. According to a recent study by the National Institute of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a recent study indicated that cocoa, which contains high levels of flavanols, may cause blood vessels to relax, which leads to a reduction in blood pressure. Study participants received a flavanol-rich cocoa drink with 450 milligrams of flavanol twice daily.

      "The Doctors' Book of Home Remedies for Women" also suggests that adding calcium supplements to your diet helps to keep blood pressure levels healthy. Consider adding 1,000-1,500 milligrams of calcium daily.

      Also, add about two to four tablespoons of flax seed to your daily supplement regimen. High in omega-3 fatty acid, flax meal is high in fiber, lignans and vitamins.

    Diet Changes

    • In addition to adding supplements to you daily routine, "The Doctors' Book of Home Remedies for Women" suggests adding fruits, beans and potatoes to your diet. These foods contain potassium, which lowers blood pressure, and a study at the John Hopkins Medical Institute showed that those who took 3,120 milligrams of potassium daily lowered their blood pressure. Aim for 2,000-4,000 milligrams of potassium a day.

      Though salt doesn't negatively affect everyone, those who struggle with hypertension should limit salt intake to about the equivalent of one teaspoon (2,000 milligrams) daily.

    Lifestyle Changes

    • To help lower blood pressure, consider lifestyle changes as well. Dropping 20 to 30 pounds can cause a chemical change in the body's metabolism, which decreases the amount of insulin you produce. This can lead to lower blood pressure. Along with trying to shed excess pounds, add aerobic exercise to your routine. Aerobic exercise keeps blood vessels more flexible, which can help to lower blood pressure. To achieve the maximum benefit, add about 30 minutes of aerobic exercise three times a week.

      Also, avoid tobacco products and alcoholic drinks, as both can raise blood pressure.

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