Herbs to Help High Blood Preasure

If you have high blood pressure, or hypertension, you should work with your doctor to develop a treatment regimen that best suits you. This may include dietary changes (including lowering your sodium intake), exercise routines, reducing alcohol intake, quitting smoking and possibly taking blood pressure medication. You may also discuss herbal remedies with your doctor, but it is important to remember that if you have a diagnosed medical condition, herbal remedies should not replace medical treatment.

Garlic

• Garlic is used for many purposes, including cardiovascular health, lowering cholesterol, boosting the immune system and as a seasoning in cooking. It may also help lower your blood pressure. Garlic contains active sulfur compounds, such as allicin, which may help to modestly lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Allicin is released from garlic by chopping, chewing or crushing it. Allicin breaks down the longer it is exposed to air, as well as when it is cooked. The best way to obtain the health benefits from garlic is to eat a small amount of it raw on a daily basis.

Hawthorn

• The hawthorn plant is a shrub with beneficial medicinal properties. It contains antioxidants and flavonoids. Flavonoids can improve the circulatory system by enhancing the flow of blood and strengthening blood vessels. Hawthorn does not interfere with high blood pressure medications. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, hawthorn has a very safe rating with the American Herbal Products Association. However, if you experience these rare side effects, discontinue use: headache, heart palpitations or nausea. If you are currently taking the medications digoxin or phenylephrine, do not use hawthorn, as you may experience a drug interaction.

Dandelion

• The dandelion weed is a nutritious plant, containing potassium, zinc and iron as well as vitamins C, D, A and B complex. Dandelion can not only boost the immune system, but also acts as a mild diuretic, which can help those with high blood pressure. It works as a diuretic by helping the kidneys excrete more salt and water, which increases urine output. You can purchase dandelion in capsules, teas and tinctures. However, if you have allergies to plants such as marigold, chrysanthemum or ragweed, you may also be allergic to dandelion. You may also experience heartburn. Do not use dandelion if you have gallbladder problems or are taking lithium, antibiotics or antacids.