Herb for Blood Pressure
Currently 60 million people in the United State suffer to some degree with high blood pressure. Many of these individuals have discovered a safe, natural and effective alternative to the harsh, prescription medications they've been. What is it? It is the use of an herb for blood pressure.Surprised? You shouldn't be really. Herbs are packed with an abundance of rich nutrients, antioxidants and phytochemicals that help balance your body naturally and support a healthy blood pressure level.
If you're currently suffering with this health condition or if you simply want to prevent its development, the herbal alternative provides an excellent approach. However, it's important that you don't discontinue use of your current medication without the express approval of your health care advisor. Once you receive that, you'll discover that several herbs are actually quite well known for their positive effects.
You probably have already heard about the legendary ability of hawthorn. In addition to the incredible long history of anecdotal evidence, scientific studies also confirm using this herb for blood pressure purposes.
One randomized, controlled study performed in the United Kingdom followed 79 individuals with high blood pressure. The researchers administered 1200 mg of hawthorn to half of the group; the rest received a placebo. The group taking the actual herb experienced a significant reduction over those who received the placebo.
Another herb for blood pressure is garlic. You probably don't think of this culinary treat as a medicinal herb, but it really is. Scientific studies have confirmed its natural potency in this area. In a review of the results of several research projects, garlic consistently helped lower high blood pressure.
The active ingredient in garlic is called allicin and it works by keeping your arteries clear of the accumulation of plaque and other debris which can make you blood pump faster through your system. Additionally, it widens your arteries and decreases clotting.
Want another herb for blood pressure? Actually there are many, among them passionflower, valerian, limeflower (also called Tilia Cordata) and lemon balm. All of these are especially potent if you've been told your high blood pressure is due to stress and anxiety. Each of these herbs exerts a sedative effect on your body.
It's believed that passion flower works by reducing the activity of some of the brain cells of your body, thus calming you. If you need a choice that's stronger than this one, then you may want to choose valerian. It has, by the way has the added benefit of relaxing the smooth muscles of your artery walls, which helps to keep them from constricting and inhibiting the flow of blood.
Thinking about using an herb for blood pressure? If you due, be sure to consult your health care provider first. Some herbs don't mix well with prescription drugs. Ideally, you should also consult a licensed, professional herbalist. She'll be able to help you select the right herb for your specific health conditions. She'll also help determine the amount of the herb that's right for you.