Herbs for High Blood Pressure

Hypertension refers to the high levels of blood pressure, which is often considered as a lifestyle disease. Almost 90% of hypertension cases develop gradually through the years and do not have a specific cause, but there are some risk factors attached to this disorder. The risk factors include age, family history, obesity, pregnancy, stress, high levels of sodium intake, use of tobacco, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, deficiency of vitamin D and potassium. Hypertension is a very common disorder in adults, but nowadays, children are also prone to this condition. This is due to their unhealthy dietary habits, lack of physical activity and poor lifestyle.

With higher incidence of this disorder, more and more people are resorting to herbal medicine and other stress relieving techniques to tackle high blood pressure. Here are some herbs, which are found to be effective in controlling hypertension.

Garlic
Garlic has already proved its worth as a culinary herb, but has many health benefits too. It is believed to be very much beneficial in controlling hypertension and in promoting cardiovascular health. It is also good for lowering the levels of bad cholesterol and is antibacterial in nature. Some studies were conducted regarding the use of garlic supplements for controlling hypertension. The results were in favor of its usage in people with high blood pressure, but never use these supplements without consulting your doctor. It may cause side-effects, if taken with some prescription drugs.

Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba, a herb of Chinese origin, has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. It is found to be effective in lowering blood pressure, by dilating arteries and improving blood circulation. This in turn facilitates increased blood flow to the brain, which can help in enhancing the memory power.

Turmeric
This herb commonly used in Indian cuisine has many medicinal properties. The active ingredient in turmeric, called curcumin, which has antioxidant properties help to control bad cholesterol, and improves blood flow by making the blood vessels strong. Turmeric is also good for liver metabolism.

Hawthorn
Hawthorn, otherwise known as mayblossom, is a herb which has been used traditionally to treat hypertension. It is believed that this herb can enhance blood flow by opening the arteries. Hawthorn reduces the possibility of hardening of coronary arteries and strengthens the muscles of the heart. It is better to take hawthorn in the form of tea.

Ginger
Ginger is also popular as an indispensable part of Asian cuisine, but its health benefits include its ability to improve blood circulation, relaxing muscles around the blood vessels, aids digestion and prevents nausea.

Olive Leaf
The extracts of olive leaves are found to be useful in controlling high blood pressure. It can also help in normalizing irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia.

There are many other herbs used in the treatment of hypertension. They include a Chinese mushroom called maitake, mistletoe, rauwolfia, coleus forskohlii, lime blossom, saffron, asparagus and hibiscus. To ensure the efficacy of herbs, it has to taken in prescribed quantities and make sure that the herbs are of good quality too. Never start any herbal medication without consulting your doctor.