Spices & Herbs to Lower Blood Pressure

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, high sodium intake is one of the primary causes of high blood pressure. Healthy sodium intake is approximately one teaspoon per day, but for many Americans, this target intake is surpassed on a regular basis. Cutting back on sodium can be difficult, but it does not mean that food has to be bland. "With herbs, spices, garlic, and onions, you can make your food spicy without salt and sodium," the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services maintains. Not only will spices and herbs replace excessive salt intake, but some will also help to lower blood pressure.

Garlic

• Garlic adds flavor to meals and lowers blood pressure.

  Garlic has been shown to lower blood pressure and encourage healthy heart functioning, according to the National Institutes of Health. Garlic makes a tasty addition to food and is not difficult to prepare. Add a clove of minced garlic to pasta dishes, rice, beans or virtually any savory food for added flavor. Garlic supplements are also available; however, the University of Michigan Health System says fresh garlic contains the highest amount of nutrients and the most flavor for culinary use.

"Sweet" Spices

• Cinnamon is a good sugar substitute.

  Those with high blood pressure should also consider cutting back on their sugar intake. Sugar can be replaced with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice, which may also reduce blood pressure levels, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Cinnamon has been shown to be especially helpful to patients with Type 2 Diabetes. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Dr. Richard Anderson, "Research on cinnamon has pointed to its efficacy in maintaining favorable blood glucose levels and reducing serum cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes."

"'Hot" Spices

• Spice up foods with cayenne pepper.

  Cutting back on sodium and sugar intake doesn't rule out food with a kick. Cayenne pepper and black pepper can still be used in foods. In fact, according to a 2007 article at the University of Michigan Health System's webpage, these "warm" spices may encourage even blood distribution, resulting in lower blood pressure levels.

Rauwolfa

• Rauwolfa is a homeopathic remedy often used to treat high blood pressure. However, this herb should only be used under physician recommendation and supervision. It functions by affecting the nervous system and is usually administered in small doses to avoid negative side effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women or those who suffer from depression should not take rauwolfa.