An Herbalist Point Of View
High blood pressure or hypertension is a chronic disease in which the pressure in the arteries is elevated, which is why the heart has to work harder to maintain normal blood circulation. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,000 deaths a day in the US are linked to high blood pressure, and one in five American adults are unaware they have it. This condition can lead to stroke or heart attack, heart failure and kidney disease, but also aortic aneurysm, atherosclerosis and pulmonary embolism.
Normal values of systolic (upper, cardiac) blood pressure at rest are in the range of 100 to 140 mmHg, and values of diastolic (lower) blood pressure are in the range of 60 to 90 mmHg. Elevated blood pressure is considered a condition in which blood pressure values are permanently above 140/90 mmHg.
For the treatment of high blood pressure, a combination of drugs is prescribed today, the aim of which is to lower the blood pressure to an acceptable value of 130/85 mmHg. It is often necessary to change several medications until the right combination and adequate dose is determined. That is why it is important to measure the pressure regularly and write down its values with date and time so that the most effective drugs can be found.
Although drugs can lower blood pressure, they can also cause many side effects, such as leg cramps, dizziness and insomnia, and the good news is that there are natural ways to lower it, like these 11 plants that are known for centuries for their ability to lower blood pressure.
Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a natural antioxidant that also has properties to lower blood cholesterol levels, but is most effective in regulating blood pressure. Its antioxidant properties also help strengthen the immune system and prevent cell damage caused by free radicals in the body. Many studies have shown that hibiscus has a very beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, since it widens the artery and slows down the release of hormones that constrict blood vessels. That way it reduces the risk of developing many serious health conditions such as heart disease, circulatory disorders, diabetes and cancer. Various studies have confirmed the positive effect of hibiscus, so it is recommended as a tea for treating high blood pressure. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Nutrition showed that consumption of hibiscus tea lowers blood pressure in at-risk groups and in people with mildly elevated blood pressure. Study participants consumed three cups of hibiscus tea per day for six weeks and significantly lowered their systolic blood pressure.
It can be consumed as a tea but also as a powder or cold drink. It has a distinctive red color and a tart or sour taste to some. Hibiscus contains enzymes, vitamin C, essential oils and many other beneficial substances. Anthocyanins and other antioxidants in this plant have been shown to work together to keep blood vessels resistant to the damage that causes them to narrow.
The beautiful red flowers of hibiscus are used to prepare the tea that has a sweet-tart taste, similar to cranberries. Many herbal tea blends contain hibiscus because it gives a richer flavor and an intense red color. That’s why experts recommend finding an herbal blend you like. To get the full benefit of hibiscus, leave the tea in the water for at least six minutes before drinking. While hibiscus tea can be a safe and natural way to lower blood pressure, it is not recommended for those taking hydrochlorothiazide, a type of diuretic used to treat high blood pressure, as it may interact adversely with the drug.
Consuming one 500 ml dose of hibiscus tea every day before breakfast can help lower blood pressure levels.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is an incredibly versatile spice root, very tasty and we can easily include it in our diet. The taste of fresh ginger is slightly peppery and sweet, with a fine citrus aroma.
It is used as natural remedy for improving heart health, including circulation, cholesterol levels, and preventing blood clots in the arteries and blood vessels. Blood clots can restrict or prevent blood flow through the circulatory system, which can further increase blood pressure.
Scientific research recommends ginger tea for high blood pressure because it has been shown that larger doses of ginger can help lower it. Subjects who consumed a maximum of 2-4 g of ginger per day had the lowest risk of developing hypertension. According to studies, daily intake of two grams of ginger powder on an empty stomach significantly loweres the level of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides and blood sugar.
Ginger also acts as a natural calcium channel blocker and natural ACE inhibitor. Calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors are types of drugs for high blood pressure.
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a vegetable that has been used for centuries as a natural blood pressure-lowering treatment. Recent study reveals that this is for good cause, as garlic appears to be an extremely effective treatment for high blood pressure. In fact, some studies show that it is equally effective as normal blood pressure drugs while having far fewer negative effects.
It’s worth noting that, while garlic’s blood-pressure-lowering benefits appear to be universal, they appear to be strongest in people with high blood pressures, as opposed to those with normal blood pressures. Allicin, garlic’s principal active ingredient, is regarded to be substantially responsible for the herb’s blood pressure-lowering qualities. According to research, allicin may inhibit the synthesis of angiotensin II, a chemical that raises blood pressure by forcing blood vessels to tighten or contract. Allicin also appears to boost the formation or availability of hydrogen sulfide and nitric oxide, both of which are important for blood pressure regulation.
South african rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) i a plant used in traditional african medicine for centuries. Now a days it is becoming popular worldwide for its wide range of health benefits. Regarding heart health, it is high in antioxidants, which have beneficial impact on many heart linked disorders.
Drinking tea or taking other rooibos containing supplements lowers blood pressure by blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is responsible for raising blood pressure by causing blood vessels to constrict.
According to a short study, rooibos tea decreased ACE activity 30-60 minutes after consumption.
Hawthorn berries (Crataegus monogyna) is a plant that exhibits many useful properties but it is best known among the people for its medicinal effect on the heart and
circulatory system. For example, hawthorn berry is one of the most widely suggested foods in traditional Chinese medicine to help treat high blood pressure.
Many studies confirm that patients suffering from heart disease react positively after consuming hawthorn, they get less tired and experience less symptoms such as shortness of breath and “skipping” heartbeats. According to animal research, hawthorn can function as a vasodilator, which means it helps relax constricted blood vessels, decreasing blood pressure.
Hawthorn can have a medicinal effect mostly due to active plant compounds that act as antioxidants. Some of these are flavonoids, quercetin, vitexin etc.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is one of the most popular herbs in the Western world and has been used for generations for its calming and sedative properties. When it comes to chamomile and high blood pressure, it is an ideal solution for hypertension, as it can help relax blood vessels and arteries. Its vasodilating effect makes it an excellent natural remedy for high blood pressure.
Antioxidants in tea, mostly flavonoids, have been shown to improve the function of the inner walls of arteries and reduce the risk of heart disease and thrombosis. Regular consumption of chamomile can also help lower cholesterol levels.
Consult a doctor before use, as chamomile may have adverse effects on those already using blood thinners.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has long been used as a plant for calmness, relaxation and easier sleep, and in case of problems with high blood pressure it is very important to get enough sleep and avoid stressful situations. One of the most important health benefits of lavander its ability to relieve stress, anxiety, depression, and to improve mood…
Hence, the relaxing properties of lavender, which come from organic compounds and antioxidants, also help to lower blood pressure, which reduces the risk of developing serious diseases such as atherosclerosis, cardiovascular problems, and reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack.
Lemon balm (Melisa officinalis) is one of the most commonly used plants in Europe and the Mediterranean. Damaged leaves give off a lemon scent, hence the name. It is a soothing herb known for purifying the blood, refreshing the body, and strengthening and rejuvenating the heart.
A recent study in the Journal of Herbal Medicine confirms that the use of lemon balm can significantly improve the condition of patients with chronic stable angina pectoris.
According to studies, lemon balm tea and high blood pressure have a significant connection. The patients were given three doses of one gram of lemon balm powder per day. After two months, patients receiving lemon balm had a significant reduction in “bad” cholesterol, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and increased exercise capacity when measuring heart function.
For best results, it is advised to drink 3-4 cups a day of this wonderful, refreshing tea.
Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) has traditionally been used to treat high blood pressure and neurological diseases. According to studies, it both reduces the heart rate and lowers
blood pressure. It also has antimicrobial properties.
The impact of gotu kola extract (as titrated extract of C. asiatica, or TECA) on varicose veins and impaired venous circulation in the legs has been examined. The findings imply that the extract can increase collagen formation in vein walls, allowing them to retain tone and operate better.
This plant should be avoided by pregnant women. Also, it is not recommended for people who have epilepsy. Because of the risk of photosensitivity, fair-skinned people and those who have had a negative reaction to sunlight while taking other drugs should avoid sunlight, tanning lamps, and other sources of ultraviolet light while taking gotu kola.
Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) is a medicinal herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including hypertension. Flavones, which comprise wogonosides, wogonin, baicalin, and baicalein, are the principal bioactive components of this plant, with baicalin being the most prevalent flavone molecule. Research indicate that it functions as a vasodilator and hence decreases blood pressure. More studies are needed to confirm this effect.
Skullcap is also an excellent source of support for those suffering from other cardiovascular disorders. Its regular consumption helps lower the chance of getting heart disease. It reduces cholesterol levels, which reduces the likelihood of plaque buildup in arteries, that causes atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke.
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a continental plant with a strong calming effect. It works like an anxiolytic, reduces nervousness and anxiety. Valerian achieves an effect similar to benzodiazepines, the most commonly prescribed drugs for the treatment of anxiety, insomnia and other conditions related to nervous tension. The second most common indication for the use of Valerian is insomnia. Valerian helps to induce sleep and improves the quality of sleep. There are many preparations with Valerian on the market and it is often combined with passionflower, lemon balm, and hops. To achieve a soporific effect, it is suggested to take 400-900 mg of Valerian extract one to two hours before going to bed.
Because of all the effects listed above, valerian affects the functioning of the heart, the condition of coronary blood vessels and blood prborneolessure. Due to its effect on the central nervous system, valerian has an indirect effect on the heart, normalizing the heart rhythm. In particular, contained in valerian has a direct effect on coronary vessels and improves coronary circulation. The drop in blood pressure after taking valerian occurs as a result of vasodilation.
Side effects are rare and include headache and indigestion. Due to the sedative effect, it is not recommended to take it an hour or two before driving. The simultaneous use of valerian and alcohol and drugs with a similar effect should be avoided because the effect increases.
Letter From The Herbalist
Hey Herbies,
Let me take a moment to give you your flowers. You have taken the first step to taking control over your health. Now let me be clear, I believe there are 3 kinds of sickness in the world. Physical, mental, and spiritual. You must begin with understanding the importance of addressing all three types of diseases not just the physical. Living holistically requires raising your vibration. We do this by focusing on our ignorance and strengthening ourselves through education. Remember ignorance is the most harmful element. Disease is typically thought of as healing the physical body. It is essential to address the mental and spiritual aspects as well. Treating the physical while leaving the mental and spiritual unresolved will only redirect or regenerate disease in a different place or way in the body. Seek treatments that treat the body as a whole and not a part. Implementing alternatives like meditation, grounding, reiki, and acupuncture just to name a few. You can learn more about the types of complementary and alternative medicine at John’s Hopkins Hospitals website where they acknowledge and have centered there treatment around the integration of alternative medicine.
Why is Johns Hopkins Hospital so famous?
Johns Hopkins counts many “firsts” among its achievements, including the first to use rubber gloves during surgery and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. As someone living with Multiple Sclerosis myself I have trusted them with my care and treatment for many years and use integrative medicine in the management of Multiple Sclerosis focusing on the whole not just a part. So make sure to speak with your physician before implementing any herbal regimen.
The suggestions listed above are not meant to treat or replace the care and / or advise of your medical provider. Always speak with your naturopathic physician or primary care doctor before starting any herbal regimen. This is done to protect us from the harmful effects of plant medicine & drug interactions.
References:
Willmot, M., Leonardi-Bee, J., & Bath, P. M. (2004). High blood pressure in acute stroke and subsequent outcome: a systematic review. Hypertension, 43(1), 18-24.
Sheridan, S., Pignone, M., & Donahue, K. (2003). Screening for high blood pressure: a review of the evidence for the US Preventive Services Task Force. American journal of preventive medicine, 25(2), 151-158.
McKay, D. L., Chen, C. O., Saltzman, E., & Blumberg, J. B. (2010). Hibiscus sabdariffa L. tea (tisane) lowers blood pressure in prehypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults. The Journal of nutrition, 140(2), 298-303.
Wahabi, H. A., Alansary, L. A., Al-Sabban, A. H., & Glasziuo, P. (2010). The effectiveness of Hibiscus sabdariffa in the treatment of hypertension: a systematic review. Phytomedicine, 17(2), 83-86.
Hasani, H., Arab, A., Hadi, A., Pourmasoumi, M., Ghavami, A., & Miraghajani, M. (2019). Does ginger supplementation lower blood pressure? A systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical trials. Phytotherapy Research, 33(6), 1639-1647.
Rohner, A., Ried, K., Sobenin, I. A., Bucher, H. C., & Nordmann, A. J. (2015). A systematic review and metaanalysis on the effects of garlic preparations on blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. American journal of hypertension, 28(3), 414-423.
Joubert, E., Gelderblom, W. C. A., Louw, A., & de Beer, D. (2008). South African herbal teas: Aspalathus linearis, Cyclopia spp. and Athrixia phylicoides—A review. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 119(3), 376-412.
Khan, A. U., & Gilani, A. H. (2006). Selective bronchodilatory effect of Rooibos tea (Aspalathus linearis) and its flavonoid, chrysoeriol. European journal of nutrition, 45(8), 463-469.
Cloud, A., Vilcins, D., & McEwen, B. (2020). The effect of hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) on blood pressure: A systematic review. Advances in Integrative Medicine, 7(3), 167-175.
Dai, Y. L., Li, Y., Wang, Q., Niu, F. J., Li, K. W., Wang, Y. Y., … & Gao, L. N. (2022). Chamomile: A Review of Its Traditional Uses, Chemical Constituents, Pharmacological Activities and Quality Control Studies. Molecules, 28(1), 133.
Sayorwan, W., Siripornpanich, V., Piriyapunyaporn, T., Hongratanaworakit, T., Kotchabhakdi, N., & Ruangrungsi, N. (2012). The effects of lavender oil inhalation on emotional states, autonomic nervous system, and brain electrical activity.
Astutik, F. E. F., Zuhroh, D. F., & Ramadhan, M. R. L. (2021). The effect of gotu kola (Centella asiatica L.) tea on blood pressure of hypertension. Enfermeria Clinica, 31, S195-S198.
Heshmati, J., Morvaridzadeh, M., Sepidarkish, M., Fazelian, S., Rahimlou, M., Omidi, A., … & Shidfar, F. (2020). Effects of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm) on cardio‐metabolic outcomes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Phytotherapy research, 34(12), 3113-3123.
Gilani, A. H., Khan, A. U., Jabeen, Q., Subhan, F., & Ghafar, R. (2005). Antispasmodic and blood pressure lowering effects of Valeriana wallichii are mediated through K+ channel activation. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 100(3), 347-352.
