Lowering Blood Pressure Without Medication: 5 Natural Ways That May Lower Blood Pressure by Kiley Morrow

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects many adults worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 20213, hypertension was a primary or contributing cause of 664,470 deaths in the U.S., nearly half of adults have hypertension (defined as a systolic blood pressure greater than 130 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure greater than 80 mmHg), and about one in four adults with hypertension have their hypertension under control.

Blood pressure is the force of blood as it pushes against the walls of the arteries as they carry blood to the body from the heart. During the course of a day, blood pressure rises and falls. If the blood pressure stays high for an extended period, it can cause heart issues, increase the odds of having a stroke and kidney disease.

Habits and behaviors that are unhealthy are potential risk factors for high blood pressure. Some things that can potentially lead to high blood pressure are:

• smoking tobacco
• eating high-sodium foods
• lack of exercise
• obesity
• too much alcohol consumption

Diet plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy heart and regulated blood pressure. Here we will explore natural ways to lower your blood pressure:

1. Hawthorn

The hawthorn tree is native to North America, Europe and northern Asia. The hawthorn tree produces red berries that contain potent antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that inhibit oxidation and counteract cellular deterioration. Extracts from the berries, leaves and flowers have long been used for medicinal purposes. Hawthorn is marketed for its heart-health benefits.

Hawthorn has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Along with helping to lower blood pressure, hawthorn is also known for its plethora of other health benefits, such as, cardiovascular health, prevention of hardening of the arteries and lowering cholesterol. Hawthorn can easily be made into a delicious tea that not only tastes good but also provides a healthy option to reduce your blood pressure.

2. Basil

Basil is a versatile and tasty herb that goes great with a variety of dishes. There are various strands of basil, all of which are reported to possess a list of health benefits. Studies conducted using rodents showed that when basil extract was introduced to the subjects’ systems, the result was a decrease in blood pressure.

The substance called eugenol contained in basil can possibly block certain factors that cause tightening of the blood vessels. This may lead to a drop in blood pressure. Basil leaves can be steeped and made into a delicious tasting blood pressure-reducing tea.

Basil has also been known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ability to promote proper digestion, depression-fighting factors, skin benefits, liver-function support and diabetes management.

3. Ginger

Ginger is another diverse ingredient that is commonly used in the preparation of Asian dishes. Ginger can also be added to beverages and sweets. Studies conducted show that when ginger was given to animals, it resulted in the relaxation of muscles surrounding blood vessels, thus lowering the blood pressure. Ginger can be chopped or minced and added to teas.

Some other noteworthy health benefits of ginger are appetite suppression, nausea relief, motion sickness and minor pain relief.

4. Cat’s Claw

In traditional Chinese medicine, cat’s claw is used to treat hypertension and neurological issues. The Asháninka tribe of the Amazon hold cat’s claw as a sacred plant, which is carried in a small pouch by every adult. Cat’s claw studies on rodents showed that the herb has a potential blood pressure-reducing factor. It is said to work on the calcium channels in the cells. You can prepare cat’s claw tea by steeping the herb in hot water.

5. Tea

Tea can be a great way to naturally lower blood pressure. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition (October 2014) suggested that it could possibly contribute to lowering blood pressure.

Tea’s health benefits extend beyond that of reduction of blood pressure. It is also reported to improve sleep and calm any stress, anxiety and depression levels. This is mainly due to the high amount of antioxidants that are found in tea.

High blood pressure can inflict quite a bit of damage before it is detected due to its lack of symptoms. Before beginning any herbal regimen, detox cleansing diets should be incorporated to clean out the system and prepare your body. Regular blood pressure screenings are recommended. While herbs may have many benefits, it is essential to consult with your physician to see what options are best for you.

Note: The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

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