Scientific research is only just beginning to confirm what traditional healers have believed about herbal remedies for centuries. Herbs are powerful natural medicines and some of them have been used to successfully treat hypertension for hundreds of years. Some of the most common herbs for high blood pressure include garlic and hawthorn, both of which have been proven to lower blood pressure levels in humans.
Garlic for High Blood Pressure
Numerous scientific studies have confirmed garlic's ability to lower blood pressure naturally. One such study, published in the Journal of Hypertension, found that garlic reduces blood pressure in mild cases. Another study conducted in West Germany in 1990 found that patients who consumed a garlic powder preparation for 12 weeks experienced reduced diastolic blood pressure levels. Patients who took a placebo experienced no change.
Garlic is available in many different forms including raw, capsules and extract. The typical standard dosage of garlic for high blood pressure is two to four grams per day of fresh, minced garlic, 600 to 1200 milligrams per day of aged garlic extract, or two 200 milligram freeze-dried garlic capsules three times per day. Purchase garlic extract and capsules standardized to contain 1.3 percent alliin or 0.6 percent allicin for the best results.
Hawthorn for High Blood Pressure
Hawthorn, a spiny shrub native to Europe, is another of the most effective herbs for high blood pressure. Although specific scientific studies have not been performed on individuals with hypertension, it is believed that the herb's ability to treat heart disease may also benefit patients with high blood pressure. More research is required to confirm, however.
One study, published in the British Journal of General Practice, found that hawthorn extract was effective in lowering blood pressure in diabetic patients taking their prescribed medications. The patients consumed 1200 milligrams of the extract or a placebo for four months. After the trial, the patients who took hawthorn had lower blood pressure levels than those taking the placebo.
Hawthorn has no harmful side effects when taken as directed, and it actually strengthens the entire cardiovascular system. For the best results, take approximately 360 milligrams per day of extract standardized to contain 1.8 to 2.2 percent vitexin flavanoids, the active ingredient in hawthorn. It may take up to six weeks before noticeable results are achieved. Do not give this herb to children, as a safe dosage is unknown.
Other Herbs for High Blood Pressure
Although garlic and hawthorn are the most widely studied herbs that lower high blood pressure, there are others with strong anecdotal evidence. While further research is necessary to confirm the efficacy of these herbs, they may provide some benefit to sufferers of hypertension. These herbs include:
- Achillea wilhelmsii – An herb native to Iran proven to reduce mild hypertension in a double-blind study conducted in 2000. Take 15 to 20 drops of tincture twice per day for the best results.
- Hibiscus tea – One study, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, found that one cup of hibiscus tea per day lowered high blood pressure. Steep two tablespoons dried hibiscus in one cup of water for 10 minutes, strain and drink.
- Reishi Mushroom – Although scientific evidence is weak, it is believed that reishi mushrooms are effective natural remedies for high blood pressure. Take 150 to 300 milligrams in capsule form two to three times per day or 30 to 60 drops of tincture twice per day.
Safely Taking Herbs for High Blood Pressure
While herbs are generally safe for consumption, it's always best to consult a qualified physician before taking any new supplement for high blood pressure. Never attempt to treat yourself without consulting a doctor, especially for a serious condition like hypertension. Some herbs, such as reishi mushrooms, may interact with prescription medication or increase the risk of bleeding. Take at your own risk and only under the supervision of a doctor.
References:
Silagy CA, Neil HA. A meta-analysis of the effect of garlic on blood pressure. J Hyperten 1994;12:463-8.
Walker AF, Marakis G, Simpson E, et al. Hypotensive effects of hawthorn for patients with diabetes taking prescription drugs: a randomised controlled trial. Br J Gen Pract. 2006;56(527):437-43.
Whitaker, Julian. Reversing Hypertension: A Vital New Program to Prevent, Treat, and Reduce High Blood Pressure. New York: Grand Central Publishing, 2001. Print.
Asgary S, Naderi GH, Sarrafzadegan N, et al. Antihypertensive and antihyperlipidemic effects of Achillea wilhelmsii. Drugs Exp Clin Res. 2000;26:89-93.
Haji Faraji M, Haji Tarkhani AH. The effect of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa) on essential hypertension. J Ethnopharmacol. 1999;65:231-236.
Cindy Ausbrooks - Cindy Ausbrooks is a freelance writer living in the beautiful Hot Springs, AR. She enjoys herbalism, natural medicine, animals, crafts, ...
