Folk Medicine for High Blood Pressure

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the arterial walls as the heart pumps. You are diagnosed with high blood pressure when your systolic level--the upper number in a blood pressure reading--is 140 or above and/or your diastolic level (lower number) is 90 or above. High blood pressure increases your risk of heart attack or stroke, but it can be lowered with natural remedies.

Angelica

• Angelica, according to Annie's Remedy, "contains 15 compounds that act much like calcium channel blockers, a class drug that is a standard treatment for angina and high blood pressure." To use it, take 1 ounce of the herb and place it in a small pot containing two cups of cold water. Bring it to a boil, then cover it and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Add ginger, cinnamon, anise or honey to improve the bitter taste. If you are currently taking anticoagulant drugs, consult your physician before taking the tea. It contains coumarin, which can interfere with anticoagulants.

Garlic

• Begin cooking with fresh garlic, a clove a day. Studies have shown that garlic can lower blood pressure slightly, but the biggest benefit is lowering your cholesterol. It can also prevent plaque from forming on artery walls, which can cause high blood pressure. Garlic also has blood-thinning properties, so advise your physician if you are taking blood-thinning medications.

Green Tea

• Green tea will not interfere with other drugs you may be taking for your blood pressure. It may interfere with iron absorption, however, so don't overdo it. Put one teabag in a cup of boiled water and steep for 10 minutes or more. You can sweeten it with honey.