Natural Remedies for High Blood PressureAlthough there are numerous natural remedies for high blood pressure, from a general standpoint, the two broadest categories are lifestyle and dietary changes, and almost everything else can be subsumed under one or the other.
As one example, there are beneficial herbs and nutritional supplements to consider for this condition that for all practical purposes could be considered "dietary" choices.
What's more, if you are currently taking anti-hypertensive drugs, natural treatments for high blood pressure may sometimes enhance their effectiveness.
Of course, you should always check with your physician before beginning a new treatment plan, and it is also important to monitor your blood pressure regularly, even if you feel fine.
This is because hypertension is known as the "silent killer"; it is only accompanied by symptoms when the blood pressure reaches dangerously high levels.
So what are the most commonly recommended natural remedies for high blood pressure when it comes to lifestyle choices? Without a doubt, the top two would be: if you smoke, quit. Of course, you already knew this, and it's easier said than done, but if others before you have quit, so can you. Secondly, if you are sedentary, you need to engage in a regular exercise routine monitored by a health professional or trainer.
When it comes to dietary changes, you should reduce the amount of sodium in your diet to less than 2300 mg per day. That’s about a teaspoon.
In addition to learning about natural treatments for high blood pressure, you need to educate yourself on things to avoid because they can either elevate your blood pressure or interact with your medications, reducing their effectiveness.
Unless you have your doctor's consent, you should not take:
Appetite Suppressants — most contain compounds that will raise your blood pressure.
Cold and Allergy Remedies — some, such as Sudafed, may increase your blood pressure.
Grapefruit Extract — sometimes sold as a nutritional supplement, it interacts with certain medications, either increasing or decreasing their effectiveness.
The following are natural remedies for high blood pressure that are less well known, but they can be very effective, either standalone or in combination with other types of therapy.
Stress reduction techniques
Stress raises your blood pressure. As we all know, it's impossible to completely eliminate stressful situations, but with the right counseling you can learn to reduce the harmful effects that they have on your health.
Deep breathing exercises can lower your blood pressure. These exercises are relatively easy to learn and can be used at home, in the car, or at the office.
Other natural treatments for high blood pressure that may help alleviate stress include yoga and meditation, shiatsu and Thai massage, and reflexology. Studies indicate that these therapies may have lasting effects by reducing the body’s reaction to stressful situations.
Nutritional Supplements
Good nutrition is important to all aspects of your health. It is nearly impossible to get everything that your body needs every day from food alone unless you shop meticulously, buying only grass-fed meats, organic produce, and the like.
In addition to a good daily multi-vitamin, you may consider taking COQ10, omega-3 fish oil, folic acid, potassium, magnesium and calcium every day. Extra vitamin C may be helpful, as well as the amino acids taurine and l-arginine.
Research suggests that an amino acid complex is one of the effective natural remedies for high blood pressure. Amino acids, in particular l-arginine, dilate the blood vessels and improve their elasticity, thus lowering blood pressure.
Herbs and Botanicals
Before the introduction of anti-hypertensive drugs, many herbs, botanicals and other natural treatments for high blood pressure were studied and used. Since prescription drugs were so heavily advertised and pushed by the medical mainstream, the effectiveness of herbs and botanicals was largely forgotten by the population at large.
Hawthorne, mistletoe, rauwofia, black cumin seed and coleus forssohlii are just a few examples of herbal medicines that lower blood pressure and improve heart function. Other natural remedies for high blood pressure are the diuretic herbs alumroot, angelica, black cohosh, chamomile, goldenrod, nettle, rose hips and uva-ursi.
Diuretics prevent excessive fluid retention. The majority of the hypertensive drugs are diuretics and most are based on the diuretic herbs.
Other Natural Treatments for High Blood Pressure
Fruits and vegetables are naturally diuretic. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, fiber and other beneficial compounds. They are low in calories, when steamed or eaten raw, and important for weight maintenance.
Water is also naturally diuretic. Soft drinks contain salts, sugars and other additives and preservatives that can increase your blood pressure, cause you to pack on pounds, and retain excessive fluid.
Recommendations on how much water you should drink vary, but you should strive for at least 36 ounces per day, maybe more, depending on your weight and level of activity. The best thing to do is substitute water for other beverages.
Your naturopathic doctor can help you choose the natural remedies for high blood pressure that are best for you. Following a complete treatment plan that includes support and follow-up care will increase your chances of living a longer, healthier life.
My name is Dr. Rami El-Hussieny and I am a naturopathic doctor who pratices in East Lansing and Ann Arbor, MI.
If you are interested in the unique perspective and services a highly trained and qualified ND can offer you, please fill out the form below and I will get back with you ASAP.
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