High blood pressure, commonly known as hypertension, is a very common health condition that affects many individuals. If left untreated, this condition can result in a heart attack or a stroke. High blood pressure is measured by noting the systolic reading as well as the diastolic reading.
Mayoclinic.com states that a reading of 140 over 90 may indicate the onset of hypertension. In some cases, the patient might have only a temporary rise in his blood pressure levels. However, in many other cases, the problem of high blood pressure is a persistent one. This condition can be easily treated by making use of certain herbs.
Effective Herbal Remedies to Treat Blood Pressure
Reishi Mushroom
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that taking reishi mushroom in doses of 150 to 300 mg two to three times each day may prove beneficial in reducing high blood pressure. This herb was used extensively in China and Japan for centuries, to lower bad cholesterol. However, it can result in certain side effects such as dry throat, vomiting and gastrointestinal discomfort. Consult your physician whether or not this herb is suitable for you.
Garlic
Garlic is an herb that is considered beneficial in treating a host of health ailments, including high blood pressure. Research studies have indicated that this herb might prove more beneficial in reducing high blood pressure than traditional drugs. According to the results of a research study published in ‘BMC Cardiovascular Disorders’, it was observed that garlic preparations were more effective than a placebo in lowering blood pressure in those suffering from hypertension.
This herb is generally safe to use, when consumed in moderate quantities, although it may cause bad breath. If you suffer from any bleeding disorder, it is highly recommended that you avoid using this herb as it can thin the blood. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends a daily dosage of 1200 mg, divided in three doses, for best results.
Achillea Wilhelmsii
According to a research study published in ‘Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research’ in the year 2000, it was observed that this herb was effective in reducing systolic as well as diastolic blood pressure in a time period of 2 to 6 months. This herb is native to Iran and is used to lower blood lipids as well. This herb is known to possess high amounts of flavonoids, which are helpful in boosting immunity. According to an article published in ‘Current Pharmaceutical Design’ in the year 2010, it was noted that this herb does not trigger any significant side effects.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn is an herb that is a diuretic, cardio-tonic and hyposensitive herb. This herb exhibits strong antioxidant properties that are helpful in keeping your heart healthy. In his book ‘Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine’, herbalist David Hoffmann states that hawthorn is an herb that is effective in increasing contractions of the muscles of the heart and helps in dilating the coronary arteries. He also states that one should use the extract of the whole plant.
According to a research study published in ‘Phytomedicine’ in February 2010, it was observed that an extract of this herb was effective in increasing heart muscle contractions, in hearts that were damaged by inadequate supply of blood. It also proved effective in promoting healing of the damaged heart muscles. It is important that you consult your physician before using this herb, especially when it is to be used along with other medications.
Mistletoe
This herb has been used extensively in the treatment of high blood pressure and other heart-related disorders. According to Sharol Tilger, author of ‘Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth’, mistletoe is a hypotensive herb and this means that it is able to have a stabilizing effect on the blood pressure levels of the patient. It is able to bring the blood pressure level of the patient back to normal within a short span of time. Mistletoe is considered to be one of the most ideal remedies when it comes to the natural treatment of high blood pressure. However, you must make sure to consume this herb only under the strict guidance of your physician.
Sang Bai Pi
This Chinese herb is very effective in its action on the problem of high blood pressure. It is often used in conjunction with other Chinese herbs as well. This herbal remedy is acquired from the bark of the mulberry plant. It has a very cooling effect on the body of the person who is consuming it. It helps to tackle the problem of excess heat in the body and thus helps to lower the blood pressure of the patient.
Du Zhong
This Chinese remedy helps to combat the symptom of light-headedness, which is associated with the condition of high blood pressure. The bark of this herb is also beneficial in boosting the flow of blood throughout the body of the individual. People who consume this herb on a regular basis notice a significant improvement in the functioning of their liver and kidneys as well.
Xia Ku Cao
This herb has a cooling effect on the body. It has brought about significant improvement in many cases of high blood pressure. Xia Ku Cao can be used in conjunction with other cooling herbs in order to increase its effectiveness in the treatment of high blood pressure. Some of these herbs include Sang Bai Pi and Jue Ming Zi. This herb helps to prevent the build-up of excessive heat in the body, which often occurs when people suffer from high blood pressure. This herb has been recommended by many of those who are experts in the field of Chinese herbal medicine.
Jue Ming Zi
This herb also has a very cooling and calming effect on the human body. This herb is extremely bitter and is highly valued due to its excellent medicinal properties. It helps to cool the body of the person who is suffering from high blood pressure and this helps to regulate the flow of blood in the body of that person.
